I review the Norbeck Trail, a low-use trail in the higher elevations of the Black Hills, near Custer State Park.
The Norbeck Trail is a beautiful, lesser-traveled hiking route situated within the Black Elk Wilderness. This is found within the boundaries of Custer State Park in the Black Hills of South Dakota.
How do you get to the Norbeck Trail in Custer State Park?
There are actually two trailheads to access the Norbeck Trail:
If you want a shorter hike and want to hit the more difficult, steeper sections sooner (while you have more energy) the Upper Norbeck trailhead comes first. It is located about .3 miles east of Sylvan Lake and about .1 miles east of the trailhead for the Cathedral Spires (all on the Needles Highway, Route 87.)
It’s kind of hard to find the trailhead because you can’t see it from the road and there isn’t any sign. Basically, once you pass the trailhead for the Cathedral Spires, start watching for a paved lane going off to the left. That’s the trailhead. (Sorry, that’s about the best description I can give. 😝)
To reach the main Norbeck trailhead, take Route 87 to Forest Road 345 (Camp Remington Road). Then take Iron Creek Horse Camp Road (which will be on your left). Watch for signs for the Iron Creek Horse Camp and the Iron Creek Centennial Trailhead as they’re both, also, found on this road. You will actually park at the horse camp, or just outside of it if the gates are closed (when we were there in mid-April the campground was still closed for the winter.)
Note: the Needles Highway is closed to vehicle traffic during the winter months. You can hike, snowshoe or ski it though (which can be a lot of fun!)
What you will see on the Norbeck Trail, in the Black Hills
The trail is comprised of picturesque, rolling terrain. It’s well-marked and wide enough for two people to walk side-by-side in some places. There are several water crossings that are small enough that they’re easy to cross but big enough to offer relief and respite on a hot day.
The ecology found along the length of the trail varies greatly from moist, almost temperate rainforest near the base, to dry, alpine forest near the top.
As you trek through these various ecosystems take note of the abundance of spruce trees in certain areas–usually on the northern slopes–that denote a wetter climate (you usually only see this variety in wetter locations in the Hills.)
What is the difficulty level of the Norbeck Trail?
The route is steep in parts, but the elevation changes are fairly moderate until you near the terminus of the trail where it joins with the Little Devils Tower trail. These last 2.5 miles of the trail gain 1000 feet in elevation! (To compare, we gained the same elevation amount on the Misty Moon trail in the Bighorn mountains of Wyoming over the course of five miles!)
This more difficult area is beautiful, though, as it snakes through a canyon complete with rocky, craggy overhangs and caves. You’ll see the backside of the Cathedral Spires towering over you to your left, and if you turn around you will be treated to beautiful views of the Southern Hills and plains to the south.
A word of advice: never let your focus on completing a trail keep you from looking around–and behind you! You never know what incredible views you may be missing if you’re solely focusing on the trail in front of you.
The rear view of the Cathedral Spires.
This trail doesn’t really “go” anywhere, per se, it’s more of a connector to other notable trails. It can be combined with different routes to form various loops depending on how long you wish to spend in the Wilderness Area. From the trailhead to the junction with the Little Devil’s Tower Trail, the route is a little over five miles (one way)–and as mentioned above it gets steep–so plan for a full day’s hike when considering this option.
We really enjoyed the hike and the ever-changing scenery was beautiful. There were some gorgeous vantage points and numerous opportunities for wildlife sightings. This trail is less well-known and, therefore, more secluded.
A portion of the trek does run near Route 87, for a time, so the summer months may be busier. Certain areas of the trail also traverse old burn scars so, if traveling in the summer, be prepared for lack of shade and a hot hike in some parts.
You can see the sparseness of the shade in some areas.
As with many other areas in the Black Hills, be watchful for deadfall as well as dead trees that remain, precipitously, standing (and their hanging, broken branches). These are remnants of the recent pine beetle infestation, and they can fall at any time, even on not-so-windy days.
Damage from the recent pine beetle infestation
If you’re looking for a fairly easy day hike, with nice views and few people, consider the Norbeck Trail!
Have you ever hiked this lighter-use trail? If so, tell me about your experience in the comments!
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In this post, I review one of my favorite gear items (a car altimeter), as well as a piece of gear no long-term camping trip should be without (a sun shower!)
The car altimeter and sun shower are two items the Trekkers use fairly regularly when car camping/traveling. Neither are must-haves, per se, but they make the trip more comfortable and more fun!
What is a Sun Shower?
A sun shower is simply a reusable, robust, vinyl bag and tube, with a spout and black backing, that you fill with water and leave out in the sun–it looks like a giant water bladder. When you return to camp after a day on the trail, you have warm water and a spigot you can wash with. The device is gravity-powered, so you’ll need to keep this in mind when you’re picking a spot to hang it.
There are various brands and versions of this apparatus, this specific one holds four gallons of water. We’ve found this system works well even to just rinse off, or to have hanging around camp to use to help keep hands and feet clean. (We have found this setup also works well to make sure your fire is out at the end of the evening as you can direct the water more easily than using a bucket).
What is a car altimeter?
Thecar altimeterindicates the elevation you’re currently residing at. This may not be a necessary piece of gear for the average hiker, but it’s fun on a road trip to see just how high (or low) of an altitude you’ve achieved. It’s also one of my favorite gear items, even though it isn’t, usually, essential to regular hikers (those venturing to the truly high altitudes–10,000+ feet–may find it more useful.)
The deviceresponds to changes in barometric pressure caused by weather, as well, so you may have to recalibrate it a little, each day, to maintain the most accurate readings.
Other versions of this instrument are digital, but I like the classic feel of the dial. For amateur interest, this is a fun, portable, way to keep track of elevation changes. It also mounts to the vehicle using velcro, so it can be easily removed and taken on a hike if you’re so inclined.
Below is a close-up picture of the altimeter:
So, if you’re wanting to maintain a higher level of hygiene on your next camping trip, or you want to know exactly why you’re breathing a little harder on the mountain top you’re currently standing on 😳, check into these devices!
Have you used either of these products? What were your experiences? Tell me about them in the comments!
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In this post, I review Yaktrax, a must-have, gear item for the slippery, winter months.
When the weather turns cold and the ground icy, there is one item the Trekkers can’t live without, Yaktrax!These gadgets are a GODSEND for anyone who spends a lot of time walking outside in the winter months.
We use them for hiking (obviously), but also for things like walking the dog, clearing snow, etc. They are especially effective for people who live in neighborhoods like ours where there is, literally, no flat ground ANYWHERE.
Imagine this situation…the dog–with her 4-paw-drive–takes off down the hill dragging you with her. You can:
A) Hang on for dear life, running through the snow-covered grass to maintain a semblance of traction or skid behind her on the slippery pavement…
or…
B) Walk easily behind her, completely in control (even if she’s slipping along), thanks to the Yaktrax–I speak from personal experience. 😇
There are several variations of these nifty devices, as well as a few different versions of the traction implement on the gear. I strongly recommend the ones with velcro straps that attach over the top of the foot (they aid greatly in holding the device to the shoe).
If you want to use these with hiking boots, I would suggest you lean toward a larger size–so, if you wear a size 10 shoes, I recommend the Yaktrax that are intended for sizes 10.5 – 12.5, NOT the ones that can only accommodate up to size 10. My personal experience was, that the size recommended fits shoes just fine, but is almost too small for boots (they fit but they’re difficult to put on and take off and they tear/wear out sooner).
Some of the product options feature chains, some studs, some springs, and some spikes (depending on the severity of the conditions you intend to encounter). We’ve always used the “spring” version with great success (on extremely smooth/slippery ice, you may want something a little more hardcore). Prices range from under $20 to close to $200 (again, based on the intensity of the spike you are interested in).
A word of caution, be careful walking on these for long periods over hard dirt/rocks as they can become damaged. We regularly carry them with us and then apply/remove them as conditions require (fortunately they’re small and fold up well, so this is easy to do).
I would also caution against walking on them indoors (especially on hardwood floors or carpet) as they could tear/scratch that material (this risk will rise with the intensity of the traction material chosen).
As long as they aren’t too tight, the Yaktrax slip on and off quite easily. I would also recommend caution when using them in muddy conditions (though sometimes this can’t be avoided). They can be a HUGE pain to clean if the mud dries on them (though if you can wash it off using water or rub it off with snow before it hardens, the difficulty decreases exponentially).
I would also suggest choosing the traction option that covers the most surface area of the boot/shoe (which is why the Trekkers chose the “Pro” version). The exception to this would be if you really feel that spikes are required for the activity you intend to use the gear for.
There are multiple brands of this product, these are the ones we use and have had great success with. My first pair eventually tore, after several years of use, due to being slightly too small for my boots causing them to over-stretch. Mr. Trekker got the exact, same brand/type, at the same time I did, and his are still going strong (under very similar use).
Below is a “shoe-sole” view of the Yaktrax, this is what bites into the ice:
If you’re looking for a low-cost tool to help you remain upright during the slippery, winter months, I strongly recommend Yaktrax!
Have you used Yaktrax? Tell me about your experience in the comments!
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In this post, I review Rimrock Trail, that traverses the canyon walls, floor and crest of Spearfish Canyon.
Located along the crest and walls of Spearfish Canyon, in the northern Black Hills of South Dakota, is Rimrock Trail–Trail #79. (This route also now offers access to the recently organized Tinton Trail that traverses this area, as well.)
Where is Rimrock Trail?
You can access the route via several different trailheads. The easiest is to use Forest Road 222 from the tiny hamlet of Savoy, at the junction of Spearfish and Little Spearfish Canyons.
From the Spearfish Canyon Byway turn at the Spearfish Canyon Lodge. Once you drive past the final pullout for Roughlock Falls, start looking for parking areas–there are several. (If you reach the T-intersection with Tinton Road you’ve gone too far.)
The parking areas are near the Rod & Gun and Timon Campgrounds, on the right-hand side of the road. Be watchful as they are VERY small–they only fit about two vehicles each. Also, some of the trailhead signs are recessed into the woods a bit, so they’re easy to miss.
The Tranquil Trekker traverses an “Aspen Tunnel”!
There is easy, trail access from the Rod & Gun and Timon Campgrounds, as well, though there are technically no “official” trailheads here. If you want to avoid the crowds near Savoy, you can also take Tinton Road north from US 85 as it heads west out of Lead (towards Wyoming) and turn right onto Roughlock Falls Road, heading towards the falls (in this case the trailheads will be on your left before you reach the falls).
There is another access point to this route from a spur trail that begins at the Old Baldy trailhead and parking area, which is found further along Tinton Road. From here you will actually approach the canyon from the top. This portion of the trail is relatively flat.
What is the Rimrock Trail like?
The trail is comprised of two loops, the Upper Loop is 4.7 miles long and the Lower Loop is 3.2 miles. We enjoyed both, and doing so means you’ll experience around a 700-foot total elevation change (the trail is fairly flat, the entire elevation change is mostly contained within an area of 1/2 mile or so, twice, throughout the hike–once descending and once ascending the canyon wall).
This area is open for hiking, snowshoeing, horseback riding, and mountain biking. The trails can be enjoyed year-round with proper equipment, though be aware, Route 222 is closed in the winter to all vehicles other than snowmobiles.
Tinton Road is not usually maintained in this area during the winter either, so, its accessibility varies depending on current conditions. In addition to the weather, these include the vehicle you’re driving, the recovery gear you’ve got at your disposal, and your experience level with 4×4 driving. We’ve traversed it successfully, but we’ve also gotten stuck, to the point where we would have had to be rescued had we not had proper recovery gear with us.
What you will see on the Rimrock Trail
The trail offers GORGEOUS aspen groves that are especially lovely in Fall (take note, this area is one of the higher elevations in the Hills and trees usually change earlier here.) The trek also features canyons and open meadows that are perfect for a stop for lunch.
This area used to be fairly well-shaded. Unfortunately, it has been hit by multiple tornadoes in recent years so now there are several bare spots where the trees once stood. 😕
We started from the eastern, Lower Loop, trailhead (the first one you come to when traveling from Savoy.) Beginning the hike from here, the climb isn’t as steep, whereas if you start from the western trailhead the trek gets VERY steep almost immediately. Due to the grade of that climb, that area would be very difficult and potentially risky if it was muddy.
From where we began, it was amazing how quickly the ecosystems changed from a cool, damp, almost rainforest-type environment to the dryer, warmer, ponderosa pine forest and meadows common to the rest of western South Dakota. The trail also offers expansive views of the canyon and surrounding countryside once you reach the crest.
Going this direction, the final stretch of the route is easy and almost flat (which is nice when your energy is running low) as it traverses the floor of the canyon. The babbling Little Spearfish Creek accompanies you the entire way. Feel free to stop for a spell and soak your tired feet in the cool water, or watch minnows dart in and out of the sun-dappled shallows.
You’ll pass a filming site from the movie Dances with Wolves (from the final scene in the film). The origin of the 1997 White House Christmas Tree and the remains of an abandoned ranger station/homestead can be seen in this area, as well.
This really is a great trail! It’s one of the better options to experience the various ecosystems western South Dakota has to offer and it’s also very pretty. The canyon portions remind me of those I’ve mentioned previously on the Deerfield Trail.
In the fall, you can enjoy some of the best leaf viewing the Black Hills has to offer without having to negotiate all the traffic and visitors to the main portion of Spearfish Canyon. During the autumn months, the yellow of the aspen contrasted with the dark ever-green of the pine trees; the brown bark of fallen logs; the incredible South Dakota blue sky, and the white puffy clouds (with red creekside plants speckled throughout the canyon areas) truly creates an iconic scene.
I would rate the entirety of the trail as moderate (though several of the flatter portions are actually easy). The climb up and down the canyon wall is relatively short but it’s steep enough for a strenuous rating, especially in less-than-superb conditions. Because the trail can be divided into shorter sections, it is appropriate for smaller children, though they may need some assistance negotiating the steeper portions.
The view as you’re descending to the creek (creekside areas seem to be about the only place to reliably see red color in the Hills in the fall)
If you’re seeking a less well-known hike in the Hills, check out Rimrock Trail!
Have you ever hiked in this area? What did you think? Tell me about your experience in the comments!
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I discuss our discovery of the ghost town of Spokane, SD near Custer State Park.
There is a really cool, hidden site in the central Black Hills, the ghost town of Spokane, South Dakota! I was surprised how long we lived in the Black Hills before we heard about this location! 😳 (This is likely due to it not being well-publicized, even though it’s very near a major tourist attraction in the local area…)
The site was pretty amazing (it didn’t hurt that the day we visited was GORGEOUS!) I’d encourage you to research the town’s history as it’s pretty interesting. Spokane was an actual town at one point (rather than just a simple mining camp) complete with a schoolhouse and a general store.
While the majority of the buildings have been destroyed by fire and Mother Nature, we think we found the foundation of the old schoolhouse. The only structures still completely standing were a house with some outlying buildings. There is also a root cellar in the main valley and the mine manager’s home still sits on a hill, overlooking the former town that was nestled in the meadow below (or it would overlook the town if there weren’t trees in the way, now. 😉)
The mine manager’s house
Hazards in a Ghost Town
There are always numerous hazards to be VERY cautious of at these sites. Among a few other foundations, metal remnants, and ancient mining equipment, there was also an old well that had been sealed with a cement cover, but this has since been dislodged. While you could see the bottom, a fall of 20 – 50 feet could be deadly, and either way, the rescue operation would be difficult for all involved. (This is another time it’s important to remember you can NOT rely on cell service when in the mountains).
*Let’s talk safety for a bit, shall we? When you visit ruins of old towns, mines, natural caves, etc. safety should be your #1 priority (respect for the site should be a VERY close #2). These buildings can be dangerous. The wood is rotting, most are in the process of falling down. Many have basements/root cellars (that you may not even be aware of). If you fall through the wood into these, you could be seriously injured.
Many of these buildings are also havens for rattlesnakes and other critters who may not appreciate you barging in (a mountain lion could be using a cool, abandoned root cellar as a place to nap.)
Old mines can collapse or cave-ins–even in natural caves–can occur at any time and with little to no warning. I cringe whenever I see pictures of people venturing into abandoned mines. 🤦♀️ So, adventure at your own risk, but, the Trekkers NEVER encourage people to actually venture into any of these structures. They can be enjoyed perfectly well and safely from outside. (You should be watchful even in the outside areas around these old sites. You never know when old holes, sharp metal pieces, or even disgruntled snakes may be camouflaged by the tall grass that often surround the structures.)
This hole in the ground appeared to be constructed, not sure if it was an old well, or what. This is what I’m talking about with safety, though. This hole was in the middle of what used to be the yard, without a cover or barrier around it.
Unique sites in Spokane, South Dakota
One unique aspect of this ghost town (at least compared to others the Trekkers have visited) is the presence of old cars! Most of the towns we’ve toured had heydays in the late 1800s when horse and cart were the primary source of travel. This town hit it’s prime in the 1920s (and wasn’t abandoned until the 1940s) so the unusual site of motor vehicles and evidence of electrical wiring on the buildings felt out of place.
I LOVE this old truck!
Where is the Spokane ghost town?
In order to help preserve the integrity of the site, I’m not going to give the exact directions to this location–other than what is already available with a simple Google search. I will give a few hints though:
It’s near Custer State Park (VERY, near). You can reach the site using Playhouse Road and/or Iron Mountain Road.
There are two entrances to the site. The main entrance, described in Google, requires a half-mile (or so) walk up a steep, rocky, abandoned forest road to reach the valley. We–somewhat accidentally–stumbled on the back entrance with an easy walk of only about 1/8th of a mile to reach the meadow.
The rest of the discovery is up to you (as I said, Google is your friend!)Author’s Note: In recent years the site has become more popular. Unfortunately, that means it’s also been vandalized–it’s too bad there are a few jerks out there who insist on ruining the fun for everyone–Some barriers have been erected in recent years to help keep people away from the buildings to hopefully help mitigate the damage. If you want clearer instructions on how to reach the site, you may contact me via social media as indicated below, or by using my contact form, and I may be able to help you a little more. (I won’t give precise instructions–that ruins the fun!–but I can give a few more helpful hints. 😇)
The mood this site created was pretty cool. The sun-dappled trees and forest floor make shadows flit on the ruins. You can almost smell the musky scent of horse, and hear the horses, wagons–and cars?! 😳–that trundled down the rutted, dirt road, as the wind rattles the dry leaves of the aspen trees that border the ramshackle houses.
While visiting the ghost town, why not check out Iron Mountain Road found nearby, as well?
This location would also make for a creepy adventure during the Halloween season! 👻 The site was pretty haunting, between the dilapidated old cars and buildings, you got a sense that this is what a post-apocalyptic society would look like (I may have been watching too much Walking Dead lately.) 😜
Below are some more pics of our adventure (thanks, as usual, to Mr. Trekker for many of these)!
To be clear, the house is leaning, not the photographer! 😉
Dishwasher or a washing machine?
I’m loving the old stove! (FYI, those are YEARS of pine cones, left by squirrels, layering the floor in front of it!) 😳
Have you ever visited this unique place? Tell me about it in the comments!
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I review a light, therapy lamp and an app I use to decrease symptoms of anxiety and seasonal depression.
I’ve mentioned before that I struggle with general anxiety as well as SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder), and that I prefer behavioral treatment methods over psychotropic medications. Below are two, non-medication, products that I use regularly and that I find help greatly, a therapy lamp and the Calm app:
Light Therapy Lamp
During the fall and winter, as the daylight wanes, this tool is a must for me (these have been documented to help decrease the symptoms of SAD.) There are several versions of this device, but this is the specific, light therapy lamp I use several months out of the year.
You have to be careful which ones you buy as they need to provide at least 10,000 lux of light, the minimum wavelength required to stimulate your brain correctly. Unfortunately, the good ones aren’t cheap. The old adage is true, however, “you get what you pay for”. When you’re experiencing several dark, cloudy days in a row, I find this helps, significantly, so it’s worth the cost.
This is not a perfect replacement for true sunlight, and it offers no source of Vitamin D3 (I mentioned previously that I enhance my levels with supplementsin the winter months). But, when you’re struggling amid a string of several gray days–and especially when you’re driving both to work and home in the dark 😝–this device helps to brighten up your world a little bit.
A word of warning, because of the way it stimulates your brain, it can cause sleep disturbances if it’s used too closely to bedtime. I use it in the morning and evenings, in the kitchen, when I’m preparing meals or doing dishes. Those are the times I notice the lack of daylight the most and these timeframes don’t affect my sleep habits. You’re supposed to sit within a certain distance of the lamp, though I find just having it in the same room I’m in and being able to see the light provides relief.
Another tool I LOVE (and use throughout the year) is the Calm app, available for Android and IOS. Several versions of the app exist, including a free, limited version–this is the one I use.
The app showcases multiple relaxing sounds (including heavy rain, a thunderstorm, waves, and a sunny lake), and white noise options (such as floating clouds or deep space). These are complemented by animated scenes that are incredibly beautiful to watch.
The paid versions also offer spoken meditation podcasts and sleep stories. You can visit the app’s website here or search for it on the App Store. I cannot recommend this product enough (I’ve gotten Mr. Trekker using it as well! 😁)
If you find yourself struggling with the ever-increasing darkness of the winter season, or just need help calming your mind, check out these products!
Have you ever used these tools? Tell me about your experiences in the comments!
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In this post, I review a trip we took to the Corn Palace in Mitchell, South Dakota.
On a quick trip to the east side of our large state, to enjoy a Metallica concert (the pyrotechnics weren’t tranquil but they were VERY cool!*) we were able to knock another item off my South Dakota bucket list. We visited the Corn Palace in Mitchell, South Dakota! I have to say, while I was expecting something a bit campy and hickish, it was actually pretty cool. 😁
*A note on heavy metal concerts, they wouldn’t appear to be “tranquil” at first glance. However, I find them to be almost meditative…in a sense…
As long as you aren’t being jostled too much by the screaming throngs 😳, the blaring music envelops you and blocks out your other senses. If you close your eyes and let the music take you, it’s almost like being underwater. I find the sensation of sensory deprivation to be calming. It’s like you’re floating, in a sea of sound, gently drifting on the sonic waves. 🎶
Is the Corn Palace really made of corn?
The Corn Palace was originally constructed in the 1890s to help draw people to the tiny town of Mitchell, South Dakota. It was built in response to other, similar sites that were cropping up (no pun intended) around the Midwest. It has showcased stars ranging from Arlo Guthrie to Brittany Spears!
To clear up any confusion, it’s not actually constructed entirely of corn. Apparently, the original palace was fabricated with more corn but was also a haven to rats and not very warm during the–many–cold months on the northern prairie.
The Corn Palace has been rebuilt several times, but, it’s a typical steel and wood building with walls that are covered in variously-colored corn cobs and husks on the outside in designs that change each year (for 2018 the walls celebrated South Dakota weather, much to the delight of the meteorologist, Mr. Trekker!)
I thought this depiction of a tornado was so cool! (You can see that they’re in the process of transitioning the mural into the next year’s design.)
What is the Corn Palace like on the inside?
When you first enter it, it looks like the lobby of your typical high school (or small, college) gym. That then opens into a larger gymnasium/auditorium area where some local college/high school teams play.
The scene took me back to my country roots. The gymnasium reminded me of the one I spent many a Friday night in during my high school years back in Indiana (basketball is big there too, in case you were wondering. 😉)
I was impressed by the wide variety of themes that have been showcased on the walls of the palace throughout the years, relating to natural phenomena, worldwide events (such as the World Wars) as well as the culture and activities familiar to the Northern Plains.
I was also intrigued by the effort required to design and construct the various murals that cover the walls every year. (I can also recommend the YUMMY popcorn sold at the concession stand! 🤤 )
For more information on the Corn Palace, please visit the attraction’s website here. If you’re ever near Mitchell, South Dakota (it’s right off I-90), I’d encourage you to stop in and check out this relic of the past. I think you’ll be glad you did!
Have you ever visited the Corn Palace? Tell me about your experience in the comments!
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In this post, I review a collection of guidebooks the Trekkers have found helpful regarding 4×4 roads and trails in Colorado.
The Guide to Colorado Backroads and 4-Wheel-Drive Trails may have a long name, but these are some of the best guidebooks we’ve used for offroading, in general. (To be fair, I don’t have much experience with books that, specifically, discuss 4WD trails). In this post, I mentioned that we used these books quite a bit during our Colorado road trip this summer.
What makes the books so great?
The book series is composed of two volumes that encompass the central and southernregions, and the northern region of the state and divide the roads and trails into classifications of “easy”, “moderate” and “difficult”. They give incredibly detailed descriptions of the routes (down to the tenth of a mile) and also discuss rules regarding permits needed, unlicensed off-road vehicles, etc.
It should be noted that the books assume that a 4WD vehicle will be used when attempting these roads/trails, So, classifications of “easy” should be understood within that context. We found some (though not all) of the “easy” roads should be approached with care in a passenger vehicle (even higher-clearance vehicles such as my CRV). It should also be noted that even the easiest trail can quickly become difficult if weather conditions deteriorate.
The books tell you what you will encounter on the route
The books’ excerpts describe the types of vehicles that each route can accommodate–a full-sized truck or jeep versus an ATV with a shorter wheelbase, whether or not modifications (such as skid plates, rock sliders, winches, etc.) are advisable. These excerpts also do a good job of differentiating between paved and gravel roads (information we found to be lacking in the Gazetteer), the usual condition of the routes, as well as how surface conditions can vary based on changing weather conditions.
The books give directions on how to reach a route, bug-out options if needed (and if they’re available at all), hazards to watch out for, the best time of the year to experience the trail (as well as when they may be closed, entirely, due to weather conditions), and contact numbers to verify the most updated road conditions.
The route’s length, the highest altitude it reaches, and activities available on or near the trail (availability of camping, hiking, rock crawling, ghost towns to explore, etc.) are also discussed. Color-coded maps are provided in spiral-bound, durable pages that make for easy use in a vehicle (I can vouch for this as the navigator). 😉
Colorado is one of my favorite places to visit. Click here for more posts on this awesome state!
According to Amazon, similar books by the same authors are available for other locales as well, including, Moab, Utah, and portions of Arizona and California. I can’t speak for the quality of these volumes, though, if they’re anything like the ones described above (and I have no reason to believe they aren’t), they would be beneficial additions to any gear list if you’re visiting these areas.
So, if you’re itching to get away from the crowds and explore some Colorado backroads, consider these books for your adventure!
Have you ever used either of these books? What did you think of them? Tell me about your experience in the comments!
†As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases
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In this post I review the Luggable Loo and Double Doodie bags.
Where do you go, when you gotta GO…and you’re in the woods? 😳
Before our 12-year-old inner selves start giggling 😜, let’s get the awkwardness out of the way. Everybody poops! And, when you’re in the woods for long periods of time, you’ll probably need to do it there. Just pretend you’re getting in touch with your ancestral roots!
Let’s face it, the woods is often a far better–or at least less smelly–option than a pit toilet! 🤥😝
The Luggable Loo and Double Doodie Bags will help make this necessary chore as pleasant as possible!
Leave No Trace Principles
When we’re enjoying the great outdoors, we need to remember that we are guests of Mother Nature. This privilege should be respected, and in so doing, we need to be responsible and clean up after ourselves. Leave No Trace principles are practices we should all follow to ensure we leave the most minimal impact possible on the natural world. You can visit this website, maintained by the Center for Outdoor Ethics, for a listing of the various principles and how best to implement them.
There are several systems available for waste disposal when you’re in the wilderness, many are small enough they can be carried in a backpack. The Trekkers car camp, so we have room for one of the larger options. There are also several brands and versions of the loo and bags, these are just the ones I chose to use–you could, also, make this product on your own, though the success of your creation may vary.
What is a Luggable Loo?
A Luggable Loo is exactly what it sounds like. It’s a portable–or luggable–toilet comprised of a seat, a five-gallon bucket, some kitty litter, and some VERY sturdy Double Doodie (garbage) bags. The kitty litter and bags work GREAT to contain any odor, especially if they’re changed daily. The fact that the only people to use the facility are those in your own party makes them far more palatable as well.
I’ve said this before but I can’t stress it enough, when you’re in bear country, ESPECIALLY grizzly country, it’s essential to make yourself as uninteresting as possible to our friends of the Ursus variety. I recommend the unscented trash bags and the all-natural kitty litter with charcoal (it’s unscented and the charcoal works great to impede odor–it’s also slightly cheaper!)
What are Double Doodie Bags?
Double Doodie Bags compliment the Luggable Loo very well. They’re easy to install, sturdy, hold a large volume of “product”, and are easy to remove from the loo when you’re finished. You can simply dispose of the used bags in any trash can.
It is not essential to carry these, or any other waste disposal system, with you. You can always employ the old-fashioned method of burying your “leavings”.
There are certain steps you should take in order to accomplish this in a way that is least harmful to the environment. You can check Principle 3 on the Leave No Trace page for info on how to go “old school” when disposing of waste.
Regardless of the system you choose to use, you should always pack out any non-biodegradable items, such as feminine products.
With the use of these fine inventions (or other waste disposal systems), you don’t need to worry about the need to “go” keeping you from going out and enjoying the outdoors!
Have you ever used the Luggable Loo or the Double Doodie bags? What were your experiences? Tell me about them in the comments!
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Black Elk Peak, formerly Harney Peak, is the highest point in the Black Hills and one of the most sought-after hikes in this area.
In case you aren’t aware of it (and as I outlined in this post), the name of this mountain changed just a few years ago and they’re still working on updating all the signs and maps.
There are multiple trail options for getting to the summit. The most popular route is the southern portion of Trail #9, the Black Elk Peak Trail, that starts at Sylvan Lake. However, in this post, I’m going to talk about the far less-traveled (and far more difficult) northern portion of this same trail.
It is a little confusing because the names are the same. Be watchful for this (there are signs!)} This portion of the trail is actually shorter than the southern route, but it is far steeper, which is why it is more difficult.
Accessing the Black Elk Peak Northern Route Trailhead
There are a number of ways to access this portion of the trail. One of the easiest is from the Willow Creek Horse Camp off of Route 244. You will find it directly across the road from the Mount Rushmore KOA campground (and around six miles west of Mount Rushmore.
The Willow Creek Trail is an easy and fairly short loop that makes for a great, quick hike. It is only around two miles in length and you can enjoy it in either direction. You will need to start on the Willow Creek Trail to reach the Black Elk Peak Trail which branches off about halfway through the Willow Creek loop.
1st Attempt to Conquer Black Elk Peak, the Hard Way
We’re standing at Black Elk Peak, we’ve been on the trail for five hours, the guidebook we’d consulted said the trail options we chose were only around eight, total miles long. We now KNOW that can’t be right as our GPS says we’re well over five miles into the hike and we’ve only reached the summit. It’s 5 p.m. and…it’s starting to drizzle…
We had used the Lost Cabin trailhead off Palmer Creek Road to ascend the mountain on this attempt. We weren’t sure if we’d make it the whole way or just turn back at some point, but at lunchtime, we were nearly four miles in and the book had said it was only an eight-mile trek so…this is a lesson in listening to your gut. When your guidebook (and/or GPS) say one thing, but while looking at the map and using human logic your gut says another…ALWAYS listen to your gut! 😝
Fortunately, it was Memorial Day weekend so we had guaranteed daylight until 8:30 pm or so, and we had headlamps with us. (This was one of the only, true, “uh oh” moments I’ve ever had on a trail. The thought crossed my mind that we could be facing a long, cold night.).
We did, eventually, make it down safely, and with daylight remaining. We even managed to save one set of dry pants, each, to change into when we got back to the car!
After descending this trail in drier conditions, I’m somewhat impressed we made it down as safely and easily as we did. Water trickles over the large, boulder steps on sunny days, so, on rainy days, it can turn into a veritable river in spots!
The path is steep and technical enough on its own, in the rain and growing darkness, it can get muddy and slippery very quickly–portions of it literally turn into mini-waterfalls from water running down the slope! I thank Mr. Trekker for suppressing my tendency to rush…I hate this trail. 😝
This trail system is a beast! Mr. Trekker and I almost had a dead limb fall on us on another, nearby trail during a hike a few years ago, on a day that wasn’t particularly windy. 😳
This big guy is the one that almost fell on us!See the limb? See the trail? About five minutes before this fell we walked through this area. We then stopped for some lunch and were startled by the “CRASH!” when it fell!
2nd Attempt to Conquer Black Elk Peak’s North Route
It’s a beautiful, sunny day. We began hiking fairly early in the morning. One problem with Trail #9 is its exposure. It used to be fairly shaded…until the pine beetles had their way. That and the resultant logging to lessen the danger of falling, dead trees has culminated in A LOT of sun exposure. Fortunately, a breeze is often present…but not always…
The heat got the Trekkers on this day (especially me). I’ve mentioned beforethat I don’t do well with heat. We made it about halfway to the summit, to the point where it really starts to get difficult.
I call this “the Boulder Section” because you have to clamber across a long length of boulders while negotiating a rather steep incline–this is the section that becomes mini-waterfalls in wetter conditions.
After this section comes the first phase of mind-numbing switchbacks (that’s right, I said FIRST! 😝)You then proceed to a flatter section, before the final phase of switchbacks, which takes you to the junction with the Black Elk Peak Summit Trail (a short, spur trail).
About the time we reached the “Boulder Section”, I started suffering from stomach cramps and nausea, similar to what I experienced when I became overheated hiking in Glacier National Parkseveral years ago. Due to this, we made the wise decision to turn back…have I mentioned that I HATE THIS TRAIL?! 😩
3rd Attempt…SUCCESS!!!
It’s a, fairly cool, July day (lower 80’s). Earlier that week we had returned from a 10-day trip to the Colorado High Country that I outlinedinthesefourposts. Due to hanging out at 8000 – 10,000 feet throughout that trip, we were especially acclimated to the altitude. (Black Elk Peak, at a little over 7000 feet, is not only the highest peak in the Black Hills, but it is also the highest peak in the country east of the Rockies). I honestly felt in my gut that if I ever hoped to vanquish this monster, this was the time to do it. All conditions were perfect, we were both feeling great and it was a beautiful day!
We made it through the easy, early section with no difficulty. We happily said “hello” to others on the trail, and avoided the occasional “remnant” from horses that had gone before us. 🤥 We reached “the Boulder Section”…my first nemesis. We conquered that fairly easily as well!
Then, we reached the first section of switchbacks. Fortunately, the shade was on our side at that time of the day. It was starting to hurt…but we made it through.
The next section traverses a ridge that parallels Black Elk Peak, so it is fairly flat. This is beneficial as it’s also fairly exposed.
This area affords lovely views of the crags that lord over you from nearby peaks, and the panoramic vistas of the plains to the east (on clear days). Buzzards soar on the thermals high above your head (waiting for beleaguered hikers to falter? 🤔) There are also several, lovely, lookout points along the way that make for a great break/lunch spot. We stopped at a couple, both on the trek up and down the mountain.
Then…we hit the final section of switchbacks. Both of us had just started feeling the altitude a bit (we were pushing 7000 feet at that point). This was the only spot where I started feeling ill. Fortunately, it was still early afternoon and we were in a shaded, quiet area, so we were able to take some time to rest and recover.
And then…
…we began our final push…
…as we rounded one, final switchback…
…and crested one, final rise in the trail…
…we saw a brown sign appear in the distance, indicating our destination was just ahead…
…WE HAD MADE IT!!! 😁
My ray of hope, the sign at the top of the trail!
Seriously ya’ll, I almost broke down in tears! I get emotional now, just thinking about it. It had taken us three attempts to conquer this beast!
I maintain this is the toughest trail I’ve ever completed in the entire Black Hills. It has a reputation for being “a doozy”. It’s long, it’s difficult, it’s exposed, and the weather can change at a moment’s notice. Fog and rain can seep in, which is an experience unto itself. (You won’t have the grand vistas that you’ll see on clearer days, but the granite columns materializing through the mist create a spooky gloom that is definitely worth experiencing, just watch your footing!)
Descending the Northern Route of Black Elk Peak
On the way down…we ran out of water (seriously). With the exception of another difficult trek in Glacier National Park, this almost NEVER happens! We usually return with a liter or so left in each of our water bladders.
It was projected to be a fairly cool day and we wanted to limit weight as much as possible– due to the strenuous hike–so we didn’t fill them quite to their max, fill line. I will NEVER make that mistake, in July, again!
Fortunately, by the time we ran out, we were only about 1.5 miles from the trailhead, it was all downhill from there and we had reached the easier portion of the trek. (Also, fortunately, a gas station in Hill City, the nearest town, had LARGE Gatorades for sale! 😜)
Have I mentioned that I HATE this trail?! I don’t think I’ve ever said that about a hike before. I am SO GLAD that we finally beat this brute, but seriously, I don’t know that I’d do it again.
I may consider it with two cars, one parked at Sylvan Lake so you can take the easy route up, and the other parked at Willow Creek trailhead as descending the hard route isn’t too bad…as long as it isn’t raining. 😝 (Or, find a nice friend who will shuttle you between the two points). Or I would try ascending the Lost Cabin trail and descending this one again.
Below are some pics from our day of achievement! 😁 (Thanks, as usual, to Mr. Trekker for some of these!)
Our first glimpse of the fire tower on the summit!My Hills! You can see the sparseness of the foliage in the foreground.If you look closely, you can see the plains, far in the distance. I “think” one of those rock faces is the backside of Mt. Rushmore! 🤔This view of the nearby crags is on the first set of switchbacksNot really sure what happened here?! Deer or elk perhaps? Looks like somebody has been gnawing on it!
Conquer Fear by Reaching your Goals
This trail had beaten us twice before, but we had finally defeated it! If we hadn’t already been acclimated to the altitude, it may have won again. This was a personal goal of mine that I had wanted to achieve for years!
This trail had made me sick, it left me with (several) blisters, it hurt me, it caused lingering anxiety to even think of attempting it again, and it pushed the limits of my endurance. But…I beat it!
Reaching this goal was an incredibly empowering, inspiring experience. This was, truly, my “white whale”. It’s hard to express my sense of accomplishment for finally completing this hike. I know others have done it and claim it “isn’t that bad”. I know it’s not a “14-er”, but so what? I don’t hike “14-ers”! 😉 This was a personal goal and desire I had set for myself and I had achieved it! What could be more empowering than that!
I don’t mean to sound like I’m bragging. My point is just that, each person has their own, personal goals, whether they be to learn a new skill, to conquer a specific challenge, etc.
Don’t compare yourself to others. Only be concerned that you push yourself to expand your comfort zone. It doesn’t matter what the goal is, as long as you strive to achieve it and, perhaps, find a way to trounce a few personal demons along the way. 👊
Have you attempted this trail? What other difficult goals have you set for yourself and achieved? Tell me about your experiences in the comments!
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Like what you read here today? Please feel free to leave a comment, like or share this post! Add your email at the bottom of the page, or the sidebar to the right, to be notified when a new post is published. By signing up for the email list, you will also receive a free copy of the Tranquil Trekker’s Top 10 Tips of Trekking Do’s and Don’ts!
You can also follow the blog on social media by clicking the links below!
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