Pactola Lake


This was a bit more of an adventure than we expected because we forgot to bring cash to pay the $7 entrance fee. It is a 30 minute drive from Rapid City, so we didn't want to turn back without doing the beach swimming we promised the boys. So, we drove to 3 different parts of the lake to try to find an ATM or get cash back. We ended up Venmo-ing a group of bikers and they gave us cash. They were pretty entertained by our request. Thankful for technology! EZ and I were debating which would be more challenging to row, a paddle board or a kayak, and M chimes in with a, "mom! you could get just get a speed boat!" Touché M, touché.






We started with a hike on Osprey Trail A. This is a nice short loop and was pretty kid friendly. We had to carry X part of the way and wouldn't have been able to take a stroller. We struck luck again and found more wild raspberries to eat off the path. This is always a highlight for the boys. They're future gardeners. This trail followed the water with plenty of trees in the view. The Flume Trail at Sheridan Lake has a better view in our opinion, but we enjoyed this short loop all the same.





To get to the swimming area, we drove past the Marina and boat dock, loaded up our wagon and headed to the rocky beach. I was convinced to definitely buy some water shoes after this trip. The beach was just past comfortable to walk on barefoot and the water a bit cold, but we still really enjoyed being outside and seeing the incredible landscape. I can't say it enough how surprised I am by the beauty in the Black Hills Area. This beach had very basic bathrooms, no sinks or water fountains. We took our wagon onto the beach just fine. Super thankful for that gift! 


As always when we drive, we packed lunches for the boys, however, we spoiled ourselves and stopped for BBQ on the way back at Sodak Smoke Shack. Best brisket I have ever had! The pulled pork was great too, but we are headed back asap for that brisket. It started  me on a BBQ kick, that I haven't been able to kick and they still hold the number one spot for brisket. If you're in the area, put this on the list. It is 20 minutes south of Rapid City and shows up on map apps.

 

Location: Pactola Lake, West Pennington, SD 57702, USA

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