We had read that the Toadstool Geological Park hike was one of the most interesting hikes in the country.     Since we were in the area (visiting my uncle in Hot Springs, SD) we decided to see it for ourselves.  We took highway 71 south from Hot Springs for about 50 miles to the Toadstool turn off road.

The 14 miles of dirt road set the stage for the adventure.

There is a small camp ground (with limited facilities) at the trail head.  The camp ground is surrounded by a fence to keep the buffalo out (I would guess).

The trail takes you to a very cool moonscape.

There are rock formations resembling toadstools, thus the park’s name.

The trail tracks through an extremely barren landscape.

There are areas where you must watch your footing.

The trail is very well marked and easy to follow.  These numbers indicate the distances (in 1/10 mile increments).

You can take a break in the shade.

The trail winds back around to the campground.

Conclusion:  And there you have it, the Toadstool Geological Park.  It wasn’t a disappointment to us.  We’ll return someday to camp there.