For those keeping track. My route has gone through Valentine Nebraska, north to Murdo, South Dakota, west into the Bad Lands National Park to the Wall drug store, south to Mt. Rushmore, and then further south through the Black Hills, were I'm staying in Hot Springs. While on the open plain, I faced strong westerly winds, often blowing 40 to 50 mph. Staying on the road and dodging tumble weed kept me busy most of the day. Once into the parks and forests, wildlife was abundant, ranging from elk, deer, mountain sheep, and bison. The big sky is awesome!