Travel Guide to Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Getting There

• Car

  If you are driving from Rapid City, take SD-44 W for about 30 minutes (approx. 35 miles). Follow the signs for Mount Rushmore, merging onto US-16A W. Continue on this road until you reach SD-244. Turn left onto SD-244, and follow it directly to Mount Rushmore National Memorial. Be prepared for parking fees of approximately $10, which is valid for the entire day.

• Car from Custer State Park

  If you are coming from Custer State Park, take SD-87 N for about 25 minutes (approx. 20 miles). Merge onto US-16A E, which will lead you to SD-244. Turn right onto SD-244 and continue until you reach Mount Rushmore. Parking costs are approximately $10 for the day.

• Public Transportation

  Public transportation options are limited in this area. However, you can take the Black Hills Passenger Service (BHPS) shuttle from Rapid City to Keystone. The shuttle operates daily, and you can catch it at various locations in Rapid City. Once you arrive in Keystone, it is a short 5-minute taxi ride or a 30-minute walk to Mount Rushmore. Check BHPS for current schedules and pricing.

• Taxi/Ride Share

  For those who prefer not to drive, consider using a taxi or ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft from nearby towns such as Keystone or Rapid City. The ride from Keystone to Mount Rushmore is approximately 5-10 minutes, while from Rapid City it can take around 30 minutes. Expect fares to be around $15-$30, depending on your pickup location.