South Dakota

Bear Butte (Mato Paha) rises as a sacred forested hill from the flats of South Dakota. Visiting Native Americans making their pilgrimages leave bits of fabric tied to trees along the pathway. A cold fog settled on the ground as we hiked silently upwards towards the top.  An eagle flew over a tangled winter ravaged tree. I looked across the plains as the sky darkening cloud rolled towards us. We turned and ran downhill, only to be pelted and drenched with cold rain as the parked car neared. Mato Paha, a place of prayer, meditation and peace.