Here is the info for Hill City.

http://www.lanterninn.com/

Devils Tower is also a day ride from Hill City.

The KOA idea is also a great one. I always try to
get one of the cabins.

This will be a great trip. I am jealous.

 

Well originally I was going to do this trip alone, but now I've decided to fly my wife into El Paso Texas and I'll drive the bike. I'll pick her up and spend a week with her... I'll end up flying her back either near the Yellowstone national park or right after the badlands.

I've also decided to skip Denver Colorado all together. This keeps my trip about the same distance, but gives me what I think will be better scenery.

Here is the new map. I've also tried to stay closer to the coast when coming from New Orleans into Texas.

Keep on sending in ideas of places I should see. Thanks!!!

 

Another question for you folks. What tempetures can I expect in Wyoming and South Dakota during the 2nd and 3nd week of May? I'd hate it to be cold when I do this trip.

Thanks, Ralph

 

It could be 70 it could be 30.

 

Depending on road conditions, I'd sure take Beartooth Hwy and Chief Joseph Hwy from Yellowstone to Cody. And take clothes for all four seasons.

 

Be flexible and willin to modify yer route...weather/roads could be questionable in May in several areas on yer map, such as the higher elevations in UT, and 'round Yellowstone. Even if ya have perfect weather and good road conditions, you WILL encounter cold weather that time of year in Yellowstone...hell, we experienced temps in the 30's and 40's on a couple of our early mornin starts there in August.

Looks like you'll be goin right thru Carlsbad...might wanna consider a stop at Carlsbad Caverns. I've never been, but would really like to see the bat flight...thousands of bats exit the cavern each evenin at dusk. I've heard it's a spectacular sight.

I see yer takin highway 14 outta Yellowstone, thru Cody, and on over to I-90. That's a nice route, and will take ya right thru the heart of Shell Canyon east of Cody, past Greybull. I've been thru Shell Canyon twice, and would go outta my way to do it again.

Also, might wanna check out Devil's Tower in WY...near the SD border...accordin to yer latest map, you'll be goin right near it.

Someone else mentioned it...but, KOA's are a decent place to stay. They have the kamping kabins, and are convenient 'cause they usually have a well stocked store on site. Quite a few of 'em also offer pancake breakfasts. We like 'em 'cause they all have fire rings and grills...nuttin like a few brews 'n brats 'round the fire after a good day's ride. Be sure to bring yer bedding and towel tho...not provided with the kabins.

 

Oh yeah...forgot to mention that if ya go to koa.com, ya can order their campin atlas...contains maps with their locations highlighted, and contact info. It's not all that big, and easily fits in a saddlebag.

 

Don't come through Houston at rush hour whatever you do.

 

You won't see much from Roswell to Albuquerque, but desert. once you get up around there and Santa Fe the Sandia Mountains are beautiful. I would suggest seeing Ruidoso and Capitan while you're in the Roswell area. Pm me if you need help once you're in Roswell. I'll be glad to assist on your trip in this area.

 

You might want a day or two in Yellowstone. It's kind a set up like a figure 8 so you might over lap some sites. We've stayed at Mammoth Hot Springs and would exit the Park at Silver Gate. This will take you to 212 to Beartooth Pass (might not be open in May) or 212 to 296 (Chief Joseph Hyw to Cody) It's a little longer than 14 but worth the ride. Dress warm! East of Gillette you exit at Moorcroft (Hyw14 and 24)for Devils Tower. 24 will take you around and end up in Belle Fouche. Nice ride.