In early June, while driving the roads in Custer State Park, South Dakota, we saw these bison & bikes in front of us. YIKES!
It ends up we were driving through the Ride Across South Dakota (RASDak) annual event. The route for this six-day event changes every year. The part we saw had participants riding 37 miles from Hot Springs to Custer, South Dakota. Mileage of each leg of the 330-mile route varies by day.
Though a RASDak support vehicle parked nearby, I would be nervous being this close to bison with calves. In fact, visitors to Custer State Park are advised to “remain in your vehicle or stay at least 100 yards from bison, elk, and other animals.” I admired the bravery of these bike riders.
I’m sure the participants saw amazing sights along the entire route, but they were probably glad to get past this bison & bikes roadblock. What a great way to see the state!
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Yikes indeed!!!
Yeah, right?
My home state, There used to be a section of the road in Custer State Park that had begging burros as well. They'd blockade the road and come to car windows for handouts. I imagine that is no longer so. At least the Bison don't demand baksheesh to allow you to pass.
It's a pretty park! They have a few burros in a corral, but I don't think they're allowed to wander anymore.
I think it would make me nervous too! Thank you for sharing this and taking part in our Roads challenge. :)
Thanks, Sue! I was glad to be inside our van.
If those bison start charging there might be a new course record from the bikers! :-D
Yeah, you're probably right! Some of the cyclists tried to stay as close as possible to the cars passing through. Smart!
Yikes indeed - the cyclist on the right in yellow seemed to lack the necessary caution in that situation!
Yeah, a lot of people think bison are just like cattle, and they are definitely not!
They are very nearsighted and charge easily. An animal you want to keep your distance from!
I didn't know they were nearsighted. Thanks for the info, Alanna! Yes, you need to stay FAR away from them.
Amazing timing.
Yeah, we didn't expect to see that happening right in front of us.
Wow! That is an incredible scene. 😧
Yeah, it sure was!