The weather was perfect— overcast, cooler, and a slight cross-tailwind that became cross-headwinds. But unless you’re a cow grazing in a pasture, today was not a good day for animals. A zoo of roadkill offered “great” views — snakes, rabbits, pheasants, mice, raccoons, deer, and even a lake encircled by dead fish. In other instances, though, we felt like National Geographic wildlife observers— the pheasants flew out of the fields as we rode past, a snake had a meal on a mouse, we saw a herd of deer galloping through the grass, and many a cow turned to watch us cycle by.

I think I jinxed the ride today by writing in yesterday’s journal that it would be quick and easy. For the most of us, it was just another 46-miler and we got to the stayover early. But part of the route was unexpectedly gravel, sand, and overgrown dirt for one group! They even witnessed a snake roadkill firsthand :( Luckily it was a fun adventure, and we ended up with some absolutely incredible photos.

We had a lot of time and fun at the stayover, heading to the recommended (and satisfying) fried chicken restaurant nearby or getting some black hills bagels. After dinner we practiced talking about portraits, and then played sardines for a few hours. We had a blast trying to find Kate and her companions, which took 45 minutes! Bravo! Tomorrow is an average milage day (74 mi) into Pierre, where we’ll have another rest day. I’ll let you know all about our plans and adventures then!

— Marielle