Written Directions
Start your ride somewhere near the town of Platte, SD on South Dakota Route 44 (Platte is about 20 miles due south of Kimball, SD and Kimball is off of I-90 about 120 miles due west of Sioux Falls). from here take route 44 west and at the town of Jordan Junction, the road will continue west but at this point its called US 18. take this all the way to hot springs.
Scenery
just wide open range land. it made me think about the native americans and early settlers, and what it was like getting across the country. awsome. though it is sad to see how the native americans live in these rural settings.
as you start (on the east side of this route) there is nothing but open range. heading toward the town of platte, you see what looks like a mountain. once you start up a hill and crest the top you come to the missouri river, what a great surprise to see among the wide open spaces. there are places to pull over and take it in. farther west if your are a history buff, stop at wounded knee. it was one of my reasons for taking this trip from pa, as will as all the attractions. this road will take you to hot springs, and up to rapid city. it was quite unexpected. and would love to ride the entire road. very little traffic. a lot of small towns along the way for food, gas, and lodging.
Drive Enjoyment
I rode this to get off the interstate and was greatly surprised on the condition of the road. mostly concrete and 70 mph. one spot of construction but it was only about half of a mile.
Tourism Opportunities
3, due to the small towns along the way that have everything you need.
