Vale, South Dakota name was derived from the simple fact that it is situated in Bear Butte Valley and is lower than the surrounding countryside. Vale, SD lies in an area where many fierce Indian battles and massacres took place in the 1870’s. The Bear Butte area was considered sacred grounds and is still a sacred prayer area for today’s Lakota Sioux and Cheyenne.

In August each year, Vale and this part of Highway 79 becomes an endurance test for the thousands of motorcycle riders that come for the Sturgis Bike Rally. The temperature in August can reach well over 100 degrees with a hot wind blowing over the buttes. Vendors even sell tee shirts that say “I survived Highway 79”.

For the history buffs, pick a cooler month and stop for all the roadside historical marker signs. Fascinating history - now we know where all the material for the old Cowboy and Indian movies came from.

Picture your next travel stop in Vale South Dakota!