Monday, July 11, 2011

Nebraska to North Dakota

On the road like this, we'll often camp in out of the way areas that have limited broadband, so blog posting can be sporadic. The "Road Less Traveled" has beauties and wonders to be seen and not missed just 'cause of a lack of modern conveniences. Thanks for understanding . . .


We were advised not to miss the display of the river's strength at Gavins Point Dam, between Nebraska and South Dakota. The stopover was certainly worth the effort. With the water's relentless determination to head downriver and more to follow, the Corps of Engineers let loose the floodgates in an attempt to manage Mother Nature.

After the photo op, we joined the parade of vehicles across the Gavins Point Dam into South Dakota.

Speaking of parades, here's an Egg Parade departing Pease Creek S.R.A, heading upstream.


The evening found us nestled amongst shade trees and wide open grassy areas at West Whitlock SRA. I've never seen so many boating enthusiasts at one park. Boat ramp parking was overflowing with empty boat trailers as folks were out enjoying the water. My kayak was not to be outdone and made two launches during our visit here.

Lewis and Clark halted for dinner just north of here on October 6, 1804. They noted an abandoned Arikaree village consisting of 80 octagon-shaped lodges covered with earth, placed close to each other and surrounded by a picket fence.
The Arikaree lodges would be much like this one found at the West Whitlock SRA. Here's an outside and inside view.

Further upstream, near Washburn, ND is the best interpretive center we've come across thus far. Don't miss it if you're in the area. Excellent gift shop, film, and artifact displays, as well as a room full of George Catlin prints from 1844 which captured the essence of Native American life in this period.

Desiring to stay at Cross ranch SP, we detoured due to flooding and stayed at the Sanger Boat Landings campsites. While not sterling, they were very adequate for our needs and a sight better than this local homestead . . .

To be continued . . .

3 comments:

rockeddy said...

Great photos Pete! Are you sure it should not be the "wander" egg?
Happy trails. Good to meet you.

rockeddy said...

Our blog, which is sporadically updated: www.thehiredmansays.blogspot.com

Pete said...

Tom,

It was great to meet you and Cathy during the rally. May you have many pleasurable miles on the road with your Casita.

See ya down the road . . .