Today I took a hike up Bear Butte in Sturgis, South Dakota. It is a beautiful, peaceful place with a lot of Native American history. "Bear Mountain" is the Lakota name given to the unique formation at Bear Butte State Park. The mountain is sacred to many Native Americans, and its ceremonial area is visited by thousands each summer. In most religions, specific areas or sites hold great spiritual significance; Bear Butte is such a place. Many Native Americans see the mountain as a place where the creator has chosen to communicate with them through visions and prayer. Because of its natural and historical heritage, Bear Butte State Park has been designated as a National Natural Landmark.
(Click on photos to enlarge.)
This beautiful Meadowlark had an even more beautiful voice.
This is the hike up. It looked easy enough.
Beautiful view towards the top.
Very long way up!!!
Easier going down!
Nice view of the Black Hills of South Dakota. 
Some pretty flowers.
This is an explanation of the colorful prayer flags.
