Ep 39. The Dakotas

Aerial America season 1 episode 39, titled The Dakotas, takes the viewers on a breathtaking journey over the two states that form the Dakotas region in the United States. From the vast prairies to the rugged Badlands, this episode showcases the natural beauty and cultural identity of the Dakotas.

The episode starts with an overview of North Dakota, the less populous of the two states. The cameras fly over the rolling hills and plains that make up most of the state's landscape. Viewers get a bird's eye view of the agricultural fields that produce wheat, corn, and other crops that are essential to the state's economy. The aerial shots also capture the winding paths of the Missouri River, which has played a significant role in the state's history and growth.

Moving further west, the episode showcases the Badlands National Park, a mesmerizing expanse of eroded buttes, canyons, and spires. The aerial cameras zoom over the sharp ridges and deep ravines that have been shaped over millions of years of geological activity. Viewers get to see the unique ecosystems of grasslands, forests, and rock formations that make up this national park. The show also highlights the wildlife that call the Badlands home, including bison, pronghorns, and coyotes.

The episode then takes viewers to the Black Hills, an imposing mountain range that straddles the border between North and South Dakota. The helicopters fly over the breathtaking scenery of the granite peaks, tall pines, and crystal clear lakes that are interspersed throughout the Black Hills. The show also highlights the human history of the Black Hills, including the native Lakota Sioux people who consider this region sacred and Mount Rushmore, a giant sculpture that depicts the faces of four US presidents.

Moving south, the episode delves into South Dakota, the more populous of the two states. The aerial cameras capture the beauty of the towering peaks of the Black Hills, including the highest point, Black Elk Peak, which stands at 7,242 feet. The show also highlights the unique caves that make up the nearby Wind Cave National Park, the sixth-longest cave system in the world, and the Mammoth Site, a museum that houses the remains of more than 60 woolly mammoths.

Venturing further south, the episode takes viewers to the prairies that make up the majority of South Dakota's landscape. The aerial cameras capture the wide-open grasslands and rolling hills that shelter the many ranches and farms that dot the region. Viewers get to see the different styles of agriculture that are practiced in South Dakota, including the cultivation of sunflowers, soybeans, and corn.

As the episode draws to a close, it highlights the other significant cultural landmarks of South Dakota. The aerial cameras zoom over the famous Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, a massive gathering of over 400,000 motorcyclists that takes place annually in the Black Hills. The final part of the show depicts Deadwood, a historic gold rush town that was home to famous figures such as Calamity Jane and Wild Bill Hickok.

Overall, Aerial America season 1 episode 39: The Dakotas, is a beautiful and informative visual journey that offers viewers an unparalleled and unique perspective of the Dakotas region. The aerial cinematography captures the grandeur and beauty of the region's geography, wildlife, agriculture, and culture. This episode is a must-watch for anyone seeking to experience the Dakotas from a new perspective.