Day 7: Rapid City, SD, to Beloit, WI

820 miles

2 more states (South Dakota to Minnesota to Wisconsin)

“In fact, just about all the major natural attractions you find in the West- the Grand Canyon, the Badlands, the Goodlands, the Mediocrelands, the Rocky Mountains and Robert Redford- were caused by erosion.” Dave Berry

Our longest driving day yet (left right after breakfast, and got into the motel after 11:15 p.m.).  We saw lots of land and highways, and a couple of interesting stops/sights.  First, we drove through the Badlands of South Dakota -- strange, ominous, country.  

On the way out of Badlands park, we happened upon the Minuteman Missile National Historic Site.  Who knew?  My dad worked on Minuteman missiles, and now the government has a tour of the former missile silo sites in South Dakota.  Another strange, but interesting, site.

The highlight of the day was our stop at the Spam Museum.  Mimi's trip dreams have been fulfilled (although we arrived after closing, and so couldn't shop in the Spam gift shop.  Tragic!)

The best part of the day for me was the audiobook in the car.  The only thing better than reading "To Kill a Mockingbird" is having Sissy Spacek read it to me!  It was particularly special as we drove through the Badlands (anyone remember the movie? My intro to Sissy S.  Scary.).
On to Michigan tomorrow! 

P.S.  Just one question about this display in the Badlands Gift Shop.  Why?