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Social Distancing Outside

Site of the old dam along Brule Creek in Union Grove State Park.

Social distancing is not a concept that I’ve ever experienced in my life. In college one roommate had mono, don’t use her stuff, but I didn't have to move out of my dorm room. I'm subject to a wide variety of ailments shared by the small people in my home. I choose not to hide from them, they always find me. And, they're adorable.

I had to spend a few hours away from my kiddos after a medical scan due to the radiation used. That was short term and not as tough as it seemed at the time. But now, it’s different. The notion that we shouldn’t go over to each other’s homes and hang out is bizarre. I’m an introvert by nature… but tell me that I can’t do something, well, I just want to do it more.

Self portraits are a challenge. Also note, archery hunting is allowed in many state parks. I try to wear something in a color not found in nature. Exhibit A: the blaze orange hat.

My son and I ventured to our local state park to explore Sunday afternoon. We like to go to Union Grove in the southeast region. The road through the park had been closed for the winter. I expected to have to park at the top of the hill in the campground and walk down to the day use area. I was very happy to find the gates open.

I visit the trails of Union Grove throughout the year and appreciate the change of the terrain with each season. Segments of the trail are adjacent to the Brule Creek. If you look at the overhead view of the park on a map, there is still a lot of park to explore. This becomes more difficult once the undergrowth and tree canopy returns. My eight year old and I took the opportunity to hike along the creek.

Some of this path is legitimate trail and some is bushwhacking. Please be courteous of the terrain.

Union Grove State Park began as a County Park around 1936. The Brule Creek was dammed to create a small lake. The lake has since filled with silt and the dam was removed. The land was leased to the State of South Dakota in 1946. Since then, the park has been host to residents and vacationers alike.” - SD GF&P Website

My son enjoyed checking out the location of the old dam and imagining a lake. I was disappointed to not come across any deer, though we found evidence of their presence. I loved ambling along with him, looking for interesting details to photograph.

I enjoy the solitude of hiking. It’s quiet, you can listen to song birds. My son found a feather he plucked to add to his collection. I always love looking at the moss growing underfoot.

I have no idea what kind of moss this is, but isn't it gorgeous?

South Dakota is really fortunate. We’re not a densely populated state and you have the option to spread out a bit more and explore some gems in each region. None are a bad place to practice social distancing.

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