Favorite Photos of Summer 2019

Story and photos by: Marcus Heerdt

(This article was recently featured on www.custersd.com)

Circling Vulture in Hell Canyon

While exploring the area near Hell Canyon, billowing thunderheads loomed in the western sky while the sun shone bright above me. Every ten seconds or so, the sun disappeared for a quick moment. I looked up to see a vulture circling overhead, and was able to photograph the bird as it crossed over the sun.

Lauzon Schoolhouse

After hiking Elk Mountain, I drove my truck on the dusty roads down to Dewey. Along the way, I stopped at this abandoned country schoolhouse because the blue sky in the background and yellow leafy spurge in the foreground complemented the dark wood of the building.

The Needles 

On a warm day in July I walked from Custer up to The Needles. And I am glad I did because the sky was bright blue along with interesting wispy clouds. It turned out to be a good panorama.

Sylvan Peak 

This peak is one of the highest points in the Black Hills at an elevation of 7,000 feet. There is no marked trail to the top and is very strenuous. But once to the top, there is a good view of Sylvan Lake, Black Elk Peak, and the rest of the surrounding area.

Morning Fog

On August 31, the Hazelrodt Cutoff Road was filled with a mysterious fog while the sun shone through the tall trees, creating interesting shadows.