South Dakota Day 3 - Needles Highway, Hike to Harney Peak, Sylvan Lake, and Time at the Cabin

On day 3, we were able to sleep in a bit. We rented a cabin at State Game Lodge. It was nothing luxorious but everyone got a bed and it was next to a nice little creek that the kids enjoyed playing near. On day 3, we finally got to spend some time in the morning and evening relaxing at the cabin.





We started our day with a drive on Needles Highway, which includes 14 miles of sharp turns, low tunnels and impressive granite spires, definitely one of the craziest and most scenic roads we have ever been on.






Our crew then ventured on a hike from Sylvan Lake to Harney Peak on Trail #9. It was about 3 1/4 mile hike to the top. Everyone did great, including "adventurous" Cristina and Kelly, who blew our the bottom of her hiking boots on the trail. While exploring the top, we took in the view, enjoyed some snacks, and watched the kids play in the water. On the way back down, Mom and Hawken accidently lost their way and veered on to Trail #4. Eventually, we met back up with the group at the bottom. Hawken was a trooper the whole way!









After our hike, the crew was ready for a swim in the chilly Sylan lake. While diving was not allowed off the big rocks, the kids did enjoy a fun jump off a smaller rock in the middle. We ended our day with a nice BBQ and game playing back at the house.