The Buffalo at Bear Butte

Just east of Sturgis SD is a very special mound of earth reaching up into the sky. Well, the mound is a lot more than that. It is a beautiful mountain that holds a very special meaning to the local Lakota Natives. It is a religious and holy place for them. It would behoove you to look up this place called Bear Butte. I am not going to go into that.. I just want to share with you the mountain and the buffalo.

Molly and I have been there many times as tourist although I do recognize the spiritual significance which it holds. Being there is an adventure in itself. I have always wanted to walk up the path to the top but my knees have pretty well ordered me to forget that idea. Still we drive through the small park on the road that leads to the parking lot. There is a museum at this location and an area to leave your vehicle to make the trek up the mountain.

We especially love it in the winter when the snow is on the ground. I am a fool-hearty, picture taking fool. I love my digital camera and believe in using it every chance I can. I have taken so many pictures of EVERYTHING up here in South Dakota. But the most peaceful place for photos is in the Black Hills and at Bear Butte.

Last winter on our trip up to Bear Butte, we caught the Buffalo out near the road. I saw this as a great photo opportunity and I took advantage of it. I stole a few shots of these grand animals ... thought I might share a few pictures with you.

Although I have been a photographer for 3 newspapers (small), I do not think of myself as a professional by any means. My photos serve as proof of that ;-)....

Anyway, I hope you like some of these...




My best to you as always......