Mountain goats along with many other types of wildlife can be spotted along the trails in South Dakota .
All of these hikes were tested and mapped via GPS by Marcus during the creation of this book to ensure the results were as accurate as possible . In addition , every hike is legal , open to the public and does not cross private property .
At the beginning of the book , there is a section on state and historical information as well as information regarding clothing and equipment , planning a hike , severe weather tips , wildlife to look for and be wary of , trail etiquette , cell service , disability access , licenses and more .
“ This book is intended to support your explorations ,” wrote Marcus . “ Readers will come away with a deeper knowledge of the area and the opportunity to connect more closely and experience more fully the wonders these lands offer .”
After the introductory information , each of the 50 hikes includes some historical information as well as a brief description of what to expect on the journey .
There is also a box with information regarding where to start , the elevation gain , distance of the hike , difficulty level , approximate hiking time , best seasons to hike , fee or permit information , trail contacts , pet information , trail surface and conditions , land status , nearest towns , nearby trails , maps , trailhead amenities and the maximum grade .
“ These are things that people might not realize so I ’ m just trying to help people out ,” said Marcus .
Directions are broken down into easy to follow steps with mile markers , detailed landmarks and custom-designed maps showing the trail and the surrounding area . Hikers can track their progress with a GPS to ensure they are staying on course .
“ If for some reason you do get lost , you know that all of these other trails connect and you know where you are ,” Marcus said . “ It can ’ t be more simple .”
With all the pertinent information laid out and difficulty levels marked , Marcus said beginning hikers should be just fine and have an enjoyable time . They can even start with the easiest hikes and work their way up to the challenging ones .
Finally , interspersed throughout the book are stunning photographs capturing some of the landscapes , views and wildlife hikers might see on their journeys .
In the book , Marcus wrote , “ In regards to photography , I wanted ‘ Hiking South Dakota ’ to be a group effort . I felt that the guidebook should feature photographers from around the state , not just me . Our state deserves it . South Dakota has some amazing photographers , and their work is included throughout this book .”
To compile this collection of photography , Marcus contacted friends , photographers and state agencies across South Dakota .
Many others made “ Hiking South Dakota ” possible by providing information , reviewing passages , suggesting edits , critiquing history sections and more . Marcus offered his sincere appreciation to these people and agencies on the book ’ s acknowledgments page .
18 September / Octobert 2024