Bessie was dwarfed by the mighty Mammoths in Hot Springs, South Dakota. We were up close to a huge excavation of actual bones from animals who had gotten caught in a large pool of water. The tale they told was quite interesting and we all learned a lot about the life and extinction of many
Fourth of July ’09
Bessie shared her patriotic spirit with 28 other MINIs in the New Berlin, Wisconsin, Fourth of July Parade. The MINIs came from as far as Virginia and Wyoming to celebrate the festivities. Bessie drove alongside Tardis. Isn't it great to see two Doctor Who vehicles together! Both Mini and New Berlin are celebrating their 50th
Spearfish Canyon + Deadwood + The Boondocks
The road through Spearfish Canyon is delightful and beautiful ride which Bessie enjoyed. It has twists and turns, but is less treacherous than the Peter Norbeck Scenic Byways. The road winds along a river cutting through the canyon. Along the way we stopped to see the Bridal Veil Falls. View photos... The road lead us
Wall Drug + Devils Tower
The blazing heat of the Badlands drove us to our next South Dakota destination, Wall Drug. 84+ billboards later, we were finally at Wall Drug to sample their famous, free, ice-cold water. Our strength renewed, we wandered about the 76,000 square feet of animatronics, souvenirs, knick-knacks, wax models, historical photos, taxidermy, shooting fountains and an
Wildlife Loop + The Badlands
Buffalo, Ho! After winding our way through the Needles Highway, we took a much more leisurely drive through the Custer State Park Wildlife Loop. It's 18 miles of plains are lightly wooded areas, perfect for spotting a roving herd. Bessie kept us safe from all of the wildlife, except the Prairie Dogs. She could no




