Centennial Trail - Alkali Creek to Ft Meade
What you need to know:
Length - the map says 4 but we had it at 6.3.
Water - there should be water at the alkali creek campground. you may be able to get water from the fort meade VA hospital in a pinch.
Water crossings - none.
Camping - alkali creek has a campground. this area is outside of the black hills national forest, so there is no camping other than at the campground.
Trail condition - fairly easy to follow, there was one post towards the end that pointed in the wrong direction, so keep an eye out.
Notes - the first half offers some nice views but the second half just seems to meander around.
Beginning of the trail across from the trailhead.
Into the prairie we go.
Cross over into the woods.
View of the prairie below.
Up and up we go.
Ouch. Tried to sit down but there was a cactus there.
Neat rocks.
Can see I-90 on the south side of the trail.
Climbing for a great view.
So worth it - Bear Butte in the distance.
Gorgeous view to the west.
Gorgeous view to the north.
Destination ahead.
Fort Meade National Cemetery
Clean off your shoes.
Cross the road and then we seem to just meander around.
This sign told us to turn right. The trail actually goes to the left and you can see a 89 marker in the distance.
Chimney from long gone days.
Can see the end…..
Fort Meade Area.
Made it.