Driving from Chicago to San Francisco early August
Mar 14th, 2017, 02:26 PM
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Driving from Chicago to San Francisco early August
I am staying in the SF area for one full week, Since we're heading out west, I wondered if anyone could make suggestions of where to stop on the way and where to stay (traveling with 50lb dog). I would like to leave a few (maybe four days) earlier and stop at the Badlands, Mt. Rushmore, Black Hills and maybe even take a peek at Old Faithful in Yellowstone. Any suggestions on sites to see, timing needed and dog friendly (not over the top expensive) places to stay? The first day I plan to drive 10 hours at least, then stay somewhere for the night and move on. Any suggestions from experienced travelers would be greatly appreciated. Safety is also a big concern, because I am a Mom, with a 16 yr old son and our dog.
I look forward to hearing your ideas and thanks for your consideration!
I look forward to hearing your ideas and thanks for your consideration!
Mar 14th, 2017, 08:33 PM
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Mar 20th, 2017, 05:52 AM
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Day 1: there isn't much between Chicago and the black hills. If you have never seen the Mississippi River make a short stop in the MN/WI boarder. I would drive to chamberlain sd (10+ hrs). Chamberlain is the last place to stay before rapid city.
Day 2: drive to rapid city sd detouring to take the badlands loop off the interstate. It is a 2 to 3 hr drive without the loop. With only an afternoon/evening you could hike, take a drive (Custer state park wildlife loop, iron mountain highway (twisty scenic road), or needles scenic highway). Visit mt Rushmore at night.
You can't do Yellowstone and the black hills in your short time frame. Check out google maps drive times.
Day 2: drive to rapid city sd detouring to take the badlands loop off the interstate. It is a 2 to 3 hr drive without the loop. With only an afternoon/evening you could hike, take a drive (Custer state park wildlife loop, iron mountain highway (twisty scenic road), or needles scenic highway). Visit mt Rushmore at night.
You can't do Yellowstone and the black hills in your short time frame. Check out google maps drive times.
Mar 20th, 2017, 06:34 AM
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Be very careful about heat. Don't leave your dog in the car, even with windows open. You will need lots of water for your pet. When you leave the car only do so if you can take your dog with you. IF not, just drive around and see the sights that way. Yellowstone is fantastic and I would not miss it if you can help it. I would check out facilities to "day board" your dog if you want to see certain areas that are not safe for your pet.
Mar 21st, 2017, 06:22 AM
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Avoid the black hills the first full week of August during the sturgis bike rally. Everything is booked throughout the black hills and popular drives through the hills are congested with motorcycles. The rally can actually impact hotel availability across SD as people make their way to the rally.
Check the dog policy for any national or state park you plan on visiting. A number of them prohibit bringing dogs into the park.
Check the dog policy for any national or state park you plan on visiting. A number of them prohibit bringing dogs into the park.
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gbarley
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