Escape the crowds and save big money! Discover the beauty of off-season road tripping. Join radio hosts Rebecca Wanner aka ‘BEC’ and Jeff ‘Tigger’ Erhardt (Tigger & BEC) with The Bend Radio Show & Podcast, your news outlet for the latest in Outdoors & Western Lifestyle News!
Episode 235
There’s something freeing about tossing the itinerary and just driving. Recently, we did exactly that—no reservations, no strict agenda. Just the open road and a loose plan to start in Greeley, Colorado, where we kicked things off at Greeley Hat Works with custom cowboy hats in hand. From there, we pointed the car north and followed wherever the road took us.
Discovering the Black Hills—Without the Crowds
Iconic Destinations With Room to Breathe
We made our way into South Dakota, winding through the Black Hills—a place known for its summer traffic and tourist-packed streets. But traveling in the off-season was a game-changer. We hit every major spot:
- Mount Rushmore: Walked right up, no waiting, no crowds. This monument is FREE to the public however there is a $10 parking fee that is then good for the year purchased.
- Keystone: Quiet shops and easy parking.
- Hill City: Peaceful galleries and friendly locals.
- Custer: Bison and wide-open roads.
- Deadwood: Historic charm without the usual foot traffic.
It felt like we had the entire region to ourselves!
Why Off-Season Travel Just Makes Sense
More Than Just Savings
Traveling off-season means no road construction delays, zero traffic stress, and major savings on hotels and entrance fees. But more than that, it’s about authentic experiences. Locals have more time to chat, landscapes feel untouched, and every stop feels personal.
Create Your Own Adventure
This wasn’t just a road trip. It was a reminder that some of the best memories come when you’re not chasing schedules. We wandered, we explored, and we never once wished we’d planned more.
Tips for Your Own Off-Season Road Trip
Pick a loose direction, not a strict route.
- Travel mid-week for even fewer crowds.
- Use local visitor centers—they’re goldmines of hidden gems.
- Pack layers: Off-season weather can be unpredictable.
- Stay flexible: The best parts are the unexpected stops.
Final Thought:
Our last-minute road trip reminded us of the joy in spontaneity, the beauty of quiet roads, and the thrill of discovering popular places when they’re practically empty. Sometimes the best travel stories aren’t planned—they’re lived in the moment.
OUTDOORS FIELD REPORTS & COMMENTS
We want to hear from you! If you have any questions, comments, or stories to share about bighorn sheep, outdoor adventures, or wildlife conservation, don’t hesitate to reach out. Call or text us at 305-900-BEND (305-900-2363), or send an email to [email protected]. Stay connected by following us on social media at Facebook/Instagram @thebendshow or by subscribing to The Bend Show on YouTube. Visit our website at TheBendShow.com for more exciting content and updates!
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WESTERN LIFESTYLE & THE OUTDOORS
Jeff ‘Tigger’ Erhardt & Rebecca ‘BEC’ Wanner are passionate news broadcasters who represent the working ranch world, rodeo, and the Western way of life. They are also staunch advocates for the outdoors and wildlife conservation. As outdoorsmen themselves, Tigger and BEC provide valuable insight and education to hunters, adventurers, ranchers, and anyone interested in agriculture and conservation.
With a shared love for the outdoors, Tigger & BEC are committed to bringing high-quality beef and wild game from the field to your table. They understand the importance of sharing meals with family, cooking the fruits of your labor, and making memories in the great outdoors. Through their work, they aim to educate and inspire those who appreciate God’s Country and life on the land.
United by a common mission, Tigger & BEC offer a glimpse into the life beyond the beaten path and down dirt roads. They’re here to share knowledge, answer your questions, and join you in your own success story. Adventure awaits around the bend. With The Outdoors, the Western Heritage, Rural America, and Wildlife Conservation at the forefront, Tigger and BEC live this lifestyle every day.
To learn more about Tigger & BEC’s journey and their passion for the outdoors, visit TiggerandBEC.com.
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