Travel Discoveries Make America Great (NAPSA)—Ameriea has such a wealth of destinations it almost guarantees rewarding travel experiences. For example, the Black Hills region of western South Dakota (and little slice of Wyoming) is a place that can exceed expectations. Once somewhat challenging to reach because of long distances behind the wheel, the Black Hills now have excellent air service at Rapid City, making the region accessible even for short getaway vacations. America’s Shrine of Democracy, Mount Rushmore National Memorial, is the Black Hills destination known around the world. While its almost a sure bet you will visit Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln and Roosevelt, it’s also a certainty that George, Tom, Abe and Teddy may cast you a stony look if you didn’t explore the surrounding territory. “Black Hills residents are constantly delighted that we surprise our visitors so much,” said regional tourism expert Susan Edwards. “For instance, visitors know about Mount Rushmore, but many don’t know about the Crazy Horse Memorial that when completed, will be the world’s largest sculpture, several times larger than Mount Rushmore, taller than the Washington Monument, it’s an entire mountain.” Five national parks dot the region, including two that are underground—Wind Cave National Park and Jewel Cave National Monument—andonethat’s practi- An entire mountain becomes the world’s largest sculpture—a Black Hills discovery beyond expectation. cally lunar, Badlands National Park. Custer State Park, where you really can see buffalo roam and each fall witness a buffalo roundup, is one of the largest state parks in America. There are powwows and rodeos, and all of Deadwood is a National Historie Landmark, where Wild Bill Hickok met his fate, holding a poker hand of aces and eights. You can play a hand in the samesaloon. “Many first-time visitors say they are coming back as soon as possible,” Edwards noted. “They didn’t expect the scenic drives, the wildlife, the hiking trails, the trout streams or the quiet bedand-breakfast inns. And they really didn’t expect top-flight golf, which they find throughout the Black Hills.” Perhaps the best discovery is a travel reservation service that covers the entire region. Its fly/drive packages are someof the best values in America. Check www.Travel BlackHills.com or call toll-free 866-329-7566 for examples.
