Custer State Park, located in the heart of the Black Hills of South Dakota, has become a popular destination for fans of the “National Treasure” movie franchise. The park’s stunning natural beauty and iconic landmarks have made it a prime filming location for the second installment of the series, “National Treasure: Book of Secrets.”
Sylvan Lake: The Pivotal Scene in National Treasure 2
One of the most memorable scenes in “National Treasure: Book of Secrets” takes place at Sylvan Lake, a picturesque body of water nestled within Custer State Park. In the film, the protagonist, Benjamin Gates, played by Nicolas Cage, reaches his hand into a crevice in the rocks at the lake, a crucial moment in the movie’s plot.
The Rock Used in the National Treasure 2 Scene
The exact location of the rock used in the movie is not explicitly stated, but it can be found by taking the Sylvan Lake Trail that surrounds the lake. After rewatching the scene, it becomes clear that the rock is one of two similar-looking rocks in the area, and visitors can easily identify the spot where the iconic scene was filmed.
Other Film Locations in the Black Hills
Custer State Park is not the only filming location in the Black Hills region of South Dakota. The area has been the backdrop for numerous films, including “The Last Hunt,” “Now the West Was Won,” “Return of a Man Called Horse,” and “Into the Wild.” These movies have showcased the stunning natural beauty of the region, from the towering peaks of the Black Hills to the rugged landscapes of the Badlands National Park.
The Annual Buffalo Roundup
In addition to its cinematic fame, Custer State Park is also known for its annual Buffalo Roundup, a popular tourist attraction that takes place in September. During this event, the park’s bison herd is rounded up and vaccinated, allowing visitors to witness this unique and awe-inspiring spectacle.
Exploring Custer State Park
Custer State Park offers a wide range of activities for visitors, from hiking and swimming in Sylvan Lake to boating and exploring the park’s scenic trails. The park is open year-round, and visitors can also visit the park’s visitor center to learn more about the area’s history and natural wonders.
References
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Nutty Hiker. (2017, July 20). Finding the Rock Used In National Treasure 2. Retrieved from https://nuttyhiker.com/national-treasure-2-rock/
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Mount Rushmore Tours. (2020, April 6). 5 Must See Film Locations in the Black Hills. Retrieved from https://mountrushmoretours.com/2020/04/06/5-must-see-film-locations-in-the-black-hills/
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YouTube. (2020, April 21). National Treasure: Book of Secrets – Finding The Entrance (HD). Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ix8HhVY0Jg4
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YouTube. (2020, September 23). SYLVAN LAKE National Treasure filming location in Custer Park. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JHLekGEtT8Y
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Travel Yes Please. (2022, January 24). Photo of the Week: Sylvan Lake, Custer State Park. Retrieved from https://www.travelyesplease.com/photo-of-the-week-sylvan-lake-south-dakota/.