Native Americans consider the Black Hills of South Dakota sacred. Indeed, the Lakota believe the Black Hills to be a sanctuary that is tied to their very existence on Earth; a place that connects them to their ancestors and to the Creator; a place of infinite importance. Nowhere is this feeling of spirituality and connectedness more evident than at the Pathways Spiritual Sanctuary located near Lead, SD.
The sanctuary is open to people of every race, religion or culture. Here you can walk, sit, meditate and contemplate your relationship with the Earth and the Universe, and experience the healing power of nature. And the sanctuary is not just home to people. There is an abundance of wildlife. It is also home to the “Seven Sacred Stallions” – one representing each of the seven Lakota nations as a symbol of unity and healing.
This special place was established on an 80-acre ranch by Dave Snyder, a retired farmer and former executive director of the SD Science and Technology Authority. His website describes it this way: “The theme of Pathways is ‘Beyond Belief’ as it is a place that is beyond the diversity of beliefs, race, religion, culture, personal histories and life experiences. It is open to all who choose to visit. Within the Sanctuary, all can walk as one and honor the sacredness of all forms of life and Mother Earth.”
Relying solely on the website and word of mouth, the Pathways Spiritual Sanctuary has already attracted thousands of visitors. It’s open May 15 through October 31 annually, 8 AM to dusk. There is no admission charge. The sanctuary is supported entirely by donations.
To learn more, visit http://pathwaysspiritualsanctuary.org/.