If I had a choice between hiking on a hot summer day or a cool winter day, I would choose winter. I love the brisk fresh air, movement creating warmth without sweating and no bugs!
A few years ago I invested in a pair of fleece lined hiking pants and they make all the difference, plus wool socks, a down jacket and quality gloves.
December
Day 9: Elk Creek – Dalton Lake, 12.8.
My friend, Barb, helped me to shuttle this section over Christmas break and then hiked a few miles with me. For the first few miles, the trail meanders near Elk Creek with several crossings. Most of those crossings provide a rope to hang on to and I would imagine that in the early summer there’s quite a bit of water.
The trail soon started to climb out of Elk Creek, and I could see the openings to Bethlehem Caves. Currently privately owned and not open to the public, Bethlehem used to house a commune.
The bell tower still stands among the pines. I found it to be very a lovely view from across the canyon.
I’m not certain as to the exact elevation change, but I believe I hiked over 700 feet.
Elk Creek winding below.
Living on the prairie, it’s a delight for me to hear the wind whistle through the sea of pines. A few rest stops I chose gave me the chance to quietly listen.
At this point, I’d completed the trail from Bear Butte to Sheridan Lake before the end of 2024!
I purchased a new lens just for this project. I was using a 60mm because of it’s light weight, but would find many things I wanted to be closer to, or the desire for a wide angle. I settled upon Nikons 24-120mm, the perfect “touring” lens. I have really enjoyed working with it!
January
Day 10: Samelius – Big Pine, 3.6.
I was beginning to feel the pressure of completing the trail by April. I hate asking for help and it was increasingly harder to find a shuttle the farther south I was going. Since this section was only 3.6 miles, I hiked in and then back. A 7.2 mile day but I only counted 3.6 miles. 🙂
Day 11: Badger Hole – Parker Canyon on wildlife loop, 6.4.
While in Rapid for the Black Hills Stock Show, I was able to sneak in a hike between setting up and the start of the show. Thanks to David Dorsey for the ride!
The weather was unseasonably warm and I was down to short sleeves halfway through the hike! The terrain was more open through this area, until dropping down into French Creek.
French Creek was still frozen solid and parts of the trail was covered in ice.
I enjoyed a peaceful lunch along the banks of French Creek, listening to it’s gurgle from under the frozen water. This was one of my favorite resting spots.
February
Day 12: Sheridan Lake – Samelius, 7 miles.
One of the great joys about this hike was the surprises. Sometimes I did not look at the topo map intentionally. This was one section that was a complete surprise. My friend, Linda, joined me and we spent about the first three miles hiking up hill. When we came to this pinnacle, I had to climb to see the view beyond.
And this was the view! We started near the bottom right corner of Sheridan Lake and hike maybe 900 feet up. I’ve never seen Sheridan Lake from above before, other than maps, and I loved this watchtower location. I could have sat there for a long time just watching and listening. However, the wind was very strong and we still had about four miles to go before dark.
The light was beautiful and to see the north side of Black Elk Peak and wilderness area was lovely!
March
Day 13: Big Pine – Iron Creek, 9 or 10 miles.
This section was definitely another favorite. Although it was a bit creepy when I rounded a curve and glanced to my left only to see I was being watched by George!
I crossed several creeks, or watersheds through this densely wooded area. I was thrilled when the sun peaked out and highlighted this creek overflow right after I crossed it. I love the drama light creates and the challenge to create along with it.
Not every favorite photograph have I shared, and there are some locations I will keep secret and let you explore should you desire to also hike Centennial Trail. A few of the photographs I created will be revealed during the 2025 Open House. 🙂
Day 14: Iron Creek – Badger Hole, 7.3 miles.
I finished the winter hikes with my friend, Linda. She knows a lot about the Black Hills, and the flora and fauna. I always learn something from her.
We enjoyed lunch in a valley with this memorable view of yet another of the Black Hills fabulous rocks.
Coming soon…the finale!
