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Rapid City: Black Hills Parks, Monuments and Mount Rushmore
10/10
10 out of 10Features
- Free cancellation available
- 8h
- Mobile voucher
- Instant confirmation
- Selective hotel pickup
Overview
- Explore Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse with a private, expert-guided tour.
- Drive the scenic Iron Mountain Road and Needles Highway with stunning views.
- Spot wildlife like bison, deer, and pronghorn in Custer State Park’s wild beauty.
- Visit breathtaking Sylvan Lake and iconic landmarks like the Needles Eye.
- Immerse yourself in Black Hills history, culture, and unforgettable landscapes.
Activity location
- Custer
- Custer, South Dakota, United States
Meeting/Redemption Point
- Custer
- Custer, South Dakota, United States
Check availability
Rapid City: Black Hills Parks, Monuments and Mount Rushmore
- 8h
- English
What's included, what's not
- Private, guided tour with expert storytelling and cultural insights
- CPR/AED certified guides with a professional AED in every vehicle
- Return transport in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle
- Entrance fees to Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, and Custer State Park
- High-quality binoculars provided for wildlife and scenic viewing
- Hands-on educational materials available in the vehicle for guest learning
- Scenic drives along Iron Mountain Road and Needles Highway
- Guided exploration of Sylvan Lake and the Cathedral Spires
- Wildlife viewing along Custer State Park’s Wildlife Loop Road
- Visit Norbeck Overlook for panoramic Black Hills views
- Stops at iconic landmarks like the Needles Eye and Pigtail Bridges
- Picnic Lunch is included at a beautiful location
- Bottled water and light snacks provided during the tour
- Flexible pacing to suit your interests and comfort level
- Pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation in Rapid City or nearby areas
- Service charge
- While not required, service charge for your guide are greatly appreciated and customary for exceptional service. Often, Daniel (the owner) is your guide, and it is appropriate to tip him for his services.
- Optional Activities
- Costs for additional activities or experiences outside the outlined tour schedule are not covered.
- Pickup Fees for Custer or Hill City
- Pickup and drop-off from Custer or Hill City locations incur an additional charge. Please enquire about rates when booking.
- Meals Beyond Included Lunch
- Lunch is included, but additional meals or drinks outside the provided meal are not covered.
- Travel Insurance
- Travel insurance is not provided. Guests are encouraged to secure coverage through a reputable company or a credit card that includes travel benefits.
Know before you book
- Not allowed: Alcohol and drugs, Alcoholic drinks in the vehicle, Intoxication, Open-toed shoes, Party groups
- Not suitable for: Children under 4 years, People over 275 lbs (125 kg), People with vertigo
What you can expect
Embark on a private journey through South Dakota’s Southern Black Hills, where iconic landmarks, stunning roads, and fascinating stories await. This adventure offers a blend of breathtaking scenery, wildlife encounters, and cultural insight, making it the perfect way to explore this legendary region.
Mount Rushmore: Beyond the Faces
Begin your day at Mount Rushmore, where the storey goes far beyond the famous faces. Learn about the mountain’s history before it was carved, the vision of sculptor Gutzon Borglum, and the dedicated workers who made it possible. Hike the Presidential Trail for up-close views, snap photos from the Grand Overlook, and visit the Lincoln Borglum Visitor Centre. Dive into interactive exhibits, watch a short film, and uncover the reasons these four presidents were chosen to represent America.
Iron Mountain Road: A Scenic Wonder
Next, ascend Iron Mountain Road, a masterpiece of scenic engineering. Designed to showcase the beauty of the Black Hills, the road features unique Pigtail Bridges and three granite tunnels framing perfect views of Mount Rushmore. Along the way, towering Ponderosa pines, shimmering aspens, and iron-rich rock formations create a landscape as captivating as it is diverse. Stop at Norbeck Overlook to marvel at the Cathedral Spires, Black Elk Peak, and the Six Grandfathers—the original Lakota name for the Mount Rushmore site.
Custer State Park: A Wildlife Haven
Venture into the natural wonder of Custer State Park, home to diverse ecosystems and free-roaming wildlife. Drive the Wildlife Loop Road, where bison, pronghorn, deer, and prairie dogs can often be seen up close. These encounters are unforgettable, offering an authentic glimpse into the region’s incredible biodiversity.
Lunch and Sylvan Lake’s Tranquil Beauty
Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by the stunning scenery of the Black Hills
Then, head to Sylvan Lake, a sparkling gem nestled among granite formations. Explore its scenic trails, visit the lakeside store, and capture incredible photos of one of South Dakota’s most iconic spots.
Needles Highway and Cathedral Spires
Travel along the dramatic Needles Highway, where towering granite pinnacles lead to the iconic Needles Eye. This natural rock spire, shaped by millions of years of weathering, is a testament to the power of nature. Nearby, the Cathedral Spires rise majestically, preserved in their natural state to showcase the raw beauty of the Black Hills.
Crazy Horse Memorial: A Monument of Heritage
Conclude your day at Crazy Horse Memorial, a tribute to Native American culture and history. Learn about Chief Standing Bear’s vision, sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski’s dedication, and the ongoing effort to complete this awe-inspiring monument.
This expertly guided tour blends history, nature, and culture, offering a one-of-a-kind adventure through the Black Hills. With every turn of the road and each breathtaking stop, you’ll create memories to last a lifetime.
Location
Activity location
- Custer
- Custer, South Dakota, United States
Meeting/Redemption Point
- Custer
- Custer, South Dakota, United States