Katy Trail (Dallas, TX)

2014.07.08 - I parked at Reverchon Park near Maple Avenue and Turtle Creek Boulevard. Reverchon has been through some conversions during my residence in Dallas. In the 80s and 90s, the city maintenance fund dried up causing the park to be a haven for crime. However, at the end of the millenium and into the new one, a clean up happened and a playground was built. It has come a long way since Southern Methodist University's baseball team used it in the 70s.

I get to the Katy trail at the Thomsen Overlook where there is enough room to spread out, stretch, and get ready for a run, bike ride, or walk. The Katy Trail started when Union Pacific Railroad donated the abandoned railroad lines to the city. What formed the Katy used to be the major east-bound route through Dallas of the form Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad, the MKT or 'Katy.'

Right off, I recognize there are two trails in one. A paved trail for bikers and a gravel path for runners and hikers. This is good because of the immense traffic that passes through here daily. Fortunately, I was not dropped off at one end only to get picked up at the other and miss out on double the distance of the hike. But I must pick a direction, so I head toward American Airlines Center where the Dallas Mavericks and Stars play.  

Along the way, I cross over McKinnon Street and Harry Hines Boulevard both with good views of the World Trade Center and Dallas Infomart, at the time of it's opening the world's first and only information processing marketing center. If there are reminders, you are in Big D while on this trail, that and the ever-flowing traffic below won't let you forget it. Proving that trail getaways like the KATY are important to the urban populous.

There are signs along the trail to help identify one's location. The green and white circles have 911 on the top half and your KT location (for example, 101) underneath. Every quarter mile there are also path long markers giving distance in either direction. This is a good of knowing how far you have gon and have left to go. Also, if necessary, utilize the pet waste removal stations and 'Pick Up After Your Pets.'

The pedestrian portion has some benefits besides dodging speedy bikers. For one, there are elevation increases and decreases while the paved trail remains flat. This change of route changes the experience a little for those of us not racing from one point to the other and back again. Speaking of speeding, there is one speed monitor posted. Just like the ones in school zones, except without the elevated fine. 

Past Synder Union, the pedestrian gravel trail merge with the paved trail for the next couple of bridge crossings going north. Before moving on, maybe stand between the two letters in Blue, a "B" and "G." Stand proud and "BIG"

This is the city and I knew I would see some unusual things. I noticed a whig earlier, but maybe more unusual were the two policemen on horseback. This is Big D after all. I did ask for a photograph or autograph, but maybe that might not have been unusual.

Like at Bachman Lake, the Katy has those artistic signs warning us to look before you turn and travel at a safe speed. I went looking for a cache and thought it was on one of those, but it wasn't. It was nearby. It took me a while to find it, but I eventually did. As was the case with the multiple geocaches, I searched for today. Caching does make a hike go faster or slower, depending on perspective and time lost looking beyond the obvious.  

As the trails goes through UpTown, there is backyard access with many apartment complexes advertising access to it. Being a feature attraction is good for this trail and our nation's battle against obesity. I've even heard Troy Aikman likes to run on here, but I ain't no paparazzi and so didn't notice any stars while hiking today.

North of the Knox Henderson, the trail isn't as busy. Probably because of it being more residential and the trail south connects commercial areas. I don't mind it as I like an empty trail sometimes because it gives me time to think, relax, and reflect.

A little after noon, I make it to the Northern Terminus and saw the "0" marker on the ground. Now for the walk back. I've completed the length of the trail and now for a second look through a different lens. I don't feel so rushed getting back despite the heat. I like walks like these.

I walked 7.69 miles in 3 Hours and 20 minutes averaging 26 minutes : 02 seconds per mile with an elevation climb of 540 feet.

Total Blogged Miles: 115.95 miles. 

Cathedral Spires, Harney's Peak, and Little Devil's Tower (Custer StatePark and Black Elk National Forest, SD)

2013.07.02 - Custer State Park: 

Custer State Park was a must do on our Dakotas trip. Driving the Wildlife Loop, got us up close and personal with wild donkeys and roaming buffalos. It was the first time I had to move the car aside because a buffalo was strolling down the middle of the road. That was just the morning, we still had a good afternoon of hiking ahead of us.

At first, the only natural wonder I wanted to hike and explore was the Cathedral Spires. When we learned that a few miles down the trail was the highest point east of the Rocky Mountains, Harney's Peak, we couldn't pass it up. Lastly, it didn't hurt that the Little Devil's Tower climb and hike completed the trifecta.

Cathedral Spires:

From the start, we are impressed as we leave the Trail 4A trailhead. The spires at the trailhead are amazing and the Cathedral Spires in the distance enticing. The weather was gorgeous and our spirits high. Perfect day to be in the Black Hills.

Not far from the start, trees were trimmed and cut down. Possibly to make way for new growth and to slow down the Mountain Pine Beetle infestation that has caused serious deforestation to this lush landscape. In fact, it maybe the largest forest insect blight ever in North America as these little fellows introduced the blue stain fungus that blocks water and nutrient transport within the tree. In effect, killing the tree from the inside. 

Moving along, we knew there would be an elevation climb and soon we were stepping our way up. These rocks must surely water the lips of rock climbers. Me, I was enjoying the rocky dirt trail.

Near the intersection between the Cathedral Spires and the trail to Harney's Peak and Little Devil's Tower, we met a guy traveling from Minneapolis, MN. We exchanged stories about the area and gathered more intel. Turns out he was headed toward the Badlands the next day. Maybe our paths will cross again.

One thing the gentleman from the Twin Cities had right, the end is not as cool as the journey. As we witnessed at the end of Cathedral Spires trail. More sadness caused by the Mountain Pine Beetle. Still the walk in between the rock formations is breath taking. 

Harney's Peak:

Back at the intersection, we head toward trail 4. Trail 4 merges with Trail 3, Trail 7, and lastly Trail 9 on its way up to the Peak. It is always good to bring a good map and one can be found on the Custer State Park website.  No need to add more miles to a trek by getting lost.

Because Harney's Peak is the highest point East of the Rocky Mountains and South Dakota at 7,242 feet above sea level, we prepare ourselves for a gradual climb. This trek also tests our endurance and our ability to adopted to elevation above a mile high. We did great with both! Even had some great unobstructed views of the Cathedral Spires along the way. Awesome!

Where Trail 4 merges with Trail 3, we leave Custer State Park and enter Black Elk National Forest. Black Elk is is part of the Black Hills National Forest with over 13,000 acres. This area is considered sacred to the Sioux and is named after Black Elk, a Oglala Sioux holy man.

For the next 1/2 mile or so, the terrain is fairly flat and about the time the dirt changes to a gray glittery texture, we start to climb. It is a nice climb to get to where trail 7 merges with trail 9. A motto I repeat to myself is that every step is a step closer. Soon we will be at the top and then it will all be downhill from there.

We get to a sign that reads, 'Foot Traffic Only.' Isn't that true! The best places can only be gotten to by foot power! 

The top is a treat! Harney Peak Lookout, Dam, and Pumphouse was built in 1939. It was first used as a fire lookout tower with nothing more than a crate at the summit. Where we stood is also the site of Black Elk's great vision:

"I was standing on the highest mountain of them all, and round about beneath me was the whole hoop of the world, and while I stood there I saw more than I can tell and I understood more than I saw; for I was seeing in a sacred manner the shapes of all things in the spirit, and the shape of all shapes as they must live together like one being.'

The walk back was long and quiet as we reflected on our accomplishment. Going down is always hard, because my knee hasn't fully recovered from a prior injury. I have to be careful not to over-extend my knee, because I want to continue hiking to places as sacred as this.

At the intersection of Trail 4 and Trail 4A, we separated. There was last place for me to be, the Little Devil's Tower.

Little Devil's Tower:

As soon as I cutoff from Trail 4, I get an immediate impression I was hiking through Hell on Earth because of the open burnt area under an imposing blazing sun. It also didn't help that I was the only hiker on this trek at the moment. I began to question my sanity. Was I crazy to attempt the Trifecta today?

At the base, I question my motives again, yet I can't turn back. The whole time I climbed I leaned into the mountain for support. It is an almost straight up climb and I know it will be hell going down. At some point, blue arrows direct me around a corner. It is sort of eerie, but I followed.

I was lead up a narrow rock-filled corridor. Pretty much the rest of the way was by rock and hands. It was fun and cool at the same time! A deep hidden devilish grin grew with every step. 

At the top, Harney Peak can be seen and those hikers can be heard. Boy are they loud, but during their silence, it felt peaceful on the Tower. I enjoyed the breeze, found a cache, went to every corner to take photographs, and then prepared myself for the way down.

Coming down wasn't as bad I had expected, but I sure wish there was a slide. In retrospect, it wasn't that rough of an excursion, guess that is why they call it 'Little.' Just saying.

I walked 7.45 miles in a continuous 5 hours and 26 minutes averaging 43 minutes : 51 seconds per mile. Total elevation climbed was 1,944 feet.

Total Blogged Miles :  108.26.

The Door, The Window, The Notch, Cliff Shelf, and Fossil Exhibit Trail(Badlands National Park, SD)

2013.06.30 - The Door Trail:

Coming in from Pierre, SD on Highway 240, The Door trail is the first of three originating from the same long parking lot in the Badlands National Park. Named after a break in the Badlands wall, the trail took us into another world. It was a great introduction into the Badlands.

Beware of Rattlesnakes, the sign reads as we start down the boardwalk trail. Which makes sense considering the temperatures the Badlands can reach and the shade and space the boardwalk provides. However, this year, the heat had not quite arrived and the square cubes looked to have green grassy hair blowing in the wind.

The trek to the end of the boardwalk is not long, but the overlooks goes on for miles. Because of our elevation, it feels like we are high off the ground as we look over the Badlands and into another world. We learn that the Oreodonts lived here million of years ago and I wonder if they appreciated their surroundings.

Walking back there are steps that entice one to go beyond the boardwalk. From here yellow posts lead us into another perspective of the Badlands. Between Post # 4 and # 5, it felt like we were walking on the moon. At Post # 8, there is a peep hole into the badlands and just past Post #9, the trail ends. What an amazing excursion.

Trek distance: 0.75 miles

2013.06.30 - The Window Trail:

The second trail is another boardwalk trail and leads to a Window looking out into the Badlands. Here, as well as everywhere in the park, people go off trail and climb the geological formations in search of their own window. Caution needs to be taken as one false step can lead to a fast downhill slide. 

At the Window, the wind blows cool air unto the warm land. We admire how the Sun's ray brighten the distant peaks while setting. Looking down we appreciate the safety precautions one needs to take while in the park. 

Standing here with the night soon coming, I ponder how different the Badlands must be at night. While we are resting, many residents come out in search of food. I wish I had their night vision, honestly. I am pleased this place is being preserved for them and for us.

Trek distance: 0.25 miles

2013.07.01 - The Notch Trail: 

After resting for the night at the campgrounds, we take on this highly anticipated trail. Unpaved and filled with loose rocks, I misstep and get my first injury of the trip. A mere scrape, it is nothing to worry about, I am just glad it was not closer to the edge. From here on, I become a bit more sure footed. 

After a quarter mile or so, we were entrenched with the surrounding Badlands. At not even 90 degrees, it felt a little warmer for this hot weather man. Maybe I should have brought more water, always bring more water. 

A fun part of the trail is the rope ladder. Using the arch of my feet, I walked straight up most of the way until safety dictated the 'Three points of contact' rule. It is a good rule when a slip would hurt, just remember to always have three points of contact with your surroundings, two feet and one hand or two hands and one foot. Getting to the top is a minor accomplishment. The way down will be interesting.

The next level up is great! While walking we see a line that rides the Badlands, possibly marked by years of draining water. Up here, it also looks like a different planet and we became extra-terrestrial explorers overcoming small obstacles along the trail. 

Where the trail ends, an overlook looks over the Cliff Shelf Trail and far beyond. Standing in the 'Notch' of the Badlands, we saw Earthlings, they were close yet far far away. I yelled, 'Hello, World. I come in Peace!'

Trek distance: 1.5 miles

2013.07.01 - Cliff Shelf Trail: 

A 300 foot climb is what the trail head sign advertised with a view of the White River Valley. Turns out this places has been in use for more than 11,000 years. Generations after generations of people have been here with many more to come. I felt pretty small and insignificant while this places is the exact opposite to me. 

Looking up we saw where The Notch trail opening and those there seem bigger than usual. Aliens!

A boardwalk and stairs help with the climb. It is amazing what the forces of nature a million years ago created. For one, postcard perfect pictures. Awesome memories is another. At one point, people walked here, found shelter here, today it is an attraction. Very different times. 

At the top, we learn how this area is a resource of water in comparison to the rest of the Badlands. This is a popular place for people to camp and beat the heat. I am sure the nice breeze didn't hurt. What more can one ask for?

We passed a survey marker on our decent. Even here people go off trail and to get closer to the Badlands. There is so much to see with and every discovery enhances the experience. It turned out to be the best venue on our Dakotas trip.

Trek distance: 0.50 miles

2013.07.01 - Fossil Exhibit Trail:

Before we left, we came across this trail mainly because of the Earthcache here. As we were starting our trek, a class was underway about the Fossils in the Badlands. This was treat because we got to learn a little more about the animals that lived and died in the area. At one point, there were camels, three-toed horses, oreodonts, antelope-like animals, rhinoceroses, deer-like mammals, rabbits, beavers, land turtles, rodents, and birds. My favorite is the Mesohippus horse that went from three toes to one hoof.   Even alligators swam around here at one point, but that really doesn't surprise me considering the temperature.

Trek distance: 0.25 miles

Total Blogged Miles: 100.81. Major achievement to get over 100 miles. 

La Framboise Island (Pierre, SD)

2013.06.30 (75 degrees at 12:31) - After visiting the South Dakota Capitol, we decided to walk around LaFramboise Island. The island was known to two of our favorite men, Lewis and Clark, as "Bad Humor" island because of an tense encounter with the Teton Sioux. On September 25, 1804, when the expedition was preparing to head North on the Missouri, a large well-armed crowd of Teton warriors and Chief Black Buffalo stopped them demanding a toll of tabacco. The expedition drew weapons preparing to fire. Eventually, the expedition paid the toll, but the return trip, Clark forbid any contact with the tribe.

The Island's name came from Joseph LaFramboise who built Fort LaFramboise at the mouth of the Missouri 'Bad' River west of the island. We parked west of the island as well at the Best Western Ramkota started our walk toward the LaFramboise Island under US - 83. Here we saw where two bridges stood side by side once. One for the railroad and another for cars. Now only the railroad stands as we walk under the new passageway for cars, but the river does not seem so bad to us.

Going along the Mighty Missouri right by Steamboat Park, this paved trail has plenty of shade trees and lush green grass. It is a good place for a picnic and open enough to throw the ball around. Turns out that steamboats were modified in this area to be 'mountain' boats to withstand the harsher, narrower, and shallower River. As the sign says, 'Boys go up the Mississippi, Men go up the Big Muddy.'

It is warming up as we get to LaFramboise. We pass some locals lying in the sun on the warm beach while others jump on jet skis. Upstream dams changed the water flow of the Missouri and also converted LaFramboise from an island to a peninsula. Plenty has happened here in the past 200 years since Lewis and Clark walked this ground with a lot more still to come.

We get to LaFramboise and the first cache takes us off the trail. Ammo cans are an attraction. It is one of the very few caches we find today as we spent more time walking the steps of our heroes. Wishing we could go back in time and what it would be like.

More interesting, we pass a fire hydrant and speculate that maybe one of times the thought came to develop this island until  maybe a flood came and washed away those aspirations. It is true that parts of the island were farmed once and that this land is futile. But can it be farmed again? Or lived on? Other than by the new generation of trees planted. 

Speaking of the vegetation, it is remarkable here. Amongst the Cottonwood and Junipers, there is this stringy switchgrass that did not hurt to walk through. As well as a cone flower that resembled a corn stalk flower. It must of fascinated Meriwether Lewis to no end and kept him busy.

We past an old windmill near the last open prairie section of the island. Excitement stirs because we have been walking for a couple of hours and are anticipating the view east of the Mighty Mo. Maybe get a glimpse of the past in the present day. However, we make it to a bench that on the map appears to be one of the last markers before the eastern tip and the trail virtually disappeared. We didn't come prepared with machetes and or weapons to deal with the dangers of the unknown, so we turned around. Maybe another time. 

On our way back, we made better time, but it was pretty warm and we were ready to make our way toward Southwest South Dakota. It wouldn't be the last time on this trip we will cross the Missouri nor would be the last time we envision ourselves as modern day pioneers.

We walked 7.25 miles in 3 hours and 36 minutes averaging 29 minutes : 54 seconds per mile while trying to re-track Lewis and Clark. Our fastest mile was mile 7 at 19 minutes : 43 seconds.

Total Blogged Miles: 97.56 miles. 

Dry Run Creek Parkland (Mitchell, SD)

2013.06.29 (75 Degrees at 15:45) - After seeing the Magnificent Corn Palace and missing out on the McGovern Library due to school closing, we needed to stretch our legs. Dry Run Creek Parkland was just the right venue. We parked at a cul de sac on S. Kimball Street just north of where it intersects with E. Douglas Avenue.

Going easy from the parking lot, there is a playground for the kiddos and an area marked off for an expansion project. We hope it will be something good. Oh boy, can't wait to see, maybe the next time I come by.

We make it to the Eastern Terminus of this small trail and see two maps, one for the trail and the other for an 18-net frisbee golf course. What really stood out however, is at the skate park section, on the benches is a number kids can call, 'R-U-OK? #1-800-273-TALK (8255).' It is a smart way of reaching out to our youth without the awkwardness of asking.

It is very green that we wondered about irrigation. It has been a mild summer and that maybe the reason for this healthy emerald shade or maybe the heat hasn't set in yet. What isn't a mystery is the creek's path because the taller vegetation lines it. On the other side, we noticed newly planted trees. The class of 2013. So many planted, and we hope they all flourish. 

At Sanborn Boulevard, the trail goes underneath the bridge with access to to the railroad tracks. From our lesson at the Corn Palace, we learned the railroad was a main reason for the early success of Mitchell with the Corn Belt Exposition. It is amazing what a town can do when inspired and how after so long, it stands strong and proud.

On the other end, at Minnesota Street, there is a ballpark. Two activities for youngsters connected by a trail. Brilliant! Skate at one end and ride your bike to play ball. Remember, if not OK, there is a number to call. 

Focusing on our walk, we passed right by a cache on the western end. Doubling back, we found it and also another cache earlier making it two for this trail. It is always good to walk toward a smiley, like the carrot. It surprisingly shortens the trek.

In the hour walk, the temperature rose only 4 degrees on this beautiful day. Can't ask for better weather or better company. Our adventure through the Dakotas has started and looks bright.

We walked 2.36 miles in 1 hour : 00 minutes averaging 25 minutes : 32 seconds per mile. Our fastest mile was the second at 23 minutes : 43 seconds. I took 7,289 steps.

Total Blogged miles : 90.31 miles.