Discover the Majesty of Mt. Rushmore and the Presidential Trail
Experience the grandeur of Mt. Rushmore and the scenic Presidential Trail in South Dakota, a tribute to American history amidst stunning landscapes.
Nestled in the stunning Black Hills of South Dakota, Mt. Rushmore is a monumental tribute to four iconic American presidents. The Presidential Trail offers a unique perspective of this national treasure, guiding visitors through the natural beauty surrounding the granite faces of Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt, and Lincoln. This scenic path is perfect for tourists seeking both history and breathtaking views.
A brief summary to Presidential Trail
- Mt Rushmore, South Dakota, 57751, US
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the Presidential Trail has various terrains and inclines.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly in the Black Hills.
- Don’t miss the evening lighting ceremony for a magical viewing experience.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views and unique perspectives along the trail.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Mount Rushmore Visitor Center, start by heading south towards the Presidential Trail entrance, which is clearly marked. The trail begins just outside the visitor center. Follow the trail that leads you through a scenic pathway with views of the monument. The trail is about 0.6 miles long and offers several viewing platforms along the way, so take your time and enjoy the scenery as you walk.
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Shuttle
If you prefer a more relaxed option, you can take the Mount Rushmore shuttle service. Check the shuttle schedule at the Visitor Center, as it runs at regular intervals. Board the shuttle at the designated stop outside the Visitor Center which will take you directly to the Presidential Trailhead. Make sure to check the last shuttle time to ensure you can return after your visit.
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Biking
If you have rented a bike, you can ride along the designated bike paths. Start from the Mount Rushmore Visitor Center and head south on the bike path that leads to the Presidential Trail. Keep an eye out for signs pointing towards the trail. The ride is approximately 1.2 miles round trip, offering beautiful views of the surrounding area.
Discover more about Presidential Trail
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mount Rushmore Gift Shop
0.3 km
Explore a delightful array of souvenirs at Mount Rushmore Gift Shop, celebrating America's iconic landmark and local craftsmanship.
Mt Rushmore
0.3 km
Experience the awe-inspiring Mt. Rushmore, where history, artistry, and nature converge in South Dakota's majestic Black Hills.
Mt Rushmore Information
0.3 km
Explore the iconic Mount Rushmore, where history, artistry, and breathtaking views come together in the stunning Black Hills of South Dakota.
Mount Rushmore Profile View
0.5 km
Experience the breathtaking profile view of Mount Rushmore, where history and nature unite in a stunning South Dakota landscape.
The Pig Tails
2.0 km
Discover the whimsical charm of The Pig Tails Bridge in Keystone, South Dakota, a picturesque spot perfect for photography and relaxation amidst stunning natural landscapes.
Horse Thief Lake
2.6 km
Experience the serene beauty of Horse Thief Lake, a stunning natural oasis in South Dakota's Black Hills, perfect for swimming, fishing, and hiking.
Under Canvas Mount Rushmore
3.1 km
Discover the magic of Under Canvas Mount Rushmore, where luxury meets nature in the heart of South Dakota's stunning Black Hills.
Rushmore Helicopters Inc
3.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of South Dakota with Rushmore Helicopters Inc, offering unforgettable helicopter tours over iconic landmarks.
Abandoned Historic Keystone Mines
3.6 km
Explore the Abandoned Historic Keystone Mines in South Dakota, a journey through time revealing the rich mining history and stunning landscapes of the Black Hills.
Big Thunder Gold Mine
3.6 km
Explore the rich history of gold mining at Big Thunder Gold Mine in Keystone, South Dakota, a must-visit for history enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
Black Elk Wilderness
5.5 km
Experience the serene beauty of Black Elk Wilderness, a nature preserve offering diverse trails and breathtaking landscapes in South Dakota.
Cosmos Mystery Area
5.8 km
Experience the wonder of the Cosmos Mystery Area in Rapid City, SD, where illusions and gravity-defying phenomena will leave you amazed and intrigued.
Black Elk Lookout Marker
6.2 km
Experience breathtaking views and rich history at the Black Elk Lookout Marker in South Dakota's Black Hills, a must-visit for every traveler.
Mount Rushmore KOA Resort at Palmer Gulch Resort
6.9 km
Experience the beauty of the Black Hills at Mount Rushmore KOA Resort, your gateway to adventure and relaxation near iconic landmarks.
Cathedral Spires Viewing Spot
7.0 km
Discover breathtaking views and unique granite formations at Cathedral Spires Viewing Spot in South Dakota's Black Hills, a paradise for hikers and nature lovers.
Unmissable attractions to see
Sculptor's Studio
0.1 km
Explore the Sculptor's Studio at Mount Rushmore, where art and history converge in the heart of South Dakota's stunning landscapes.
Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center
0.2 km
Explore the Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center, your gateway to Mount Rushmore and the stunning Black Hills of South Dakota, rich in history and breathtaking views.
Hall of Records
0.3 km
Explore the Hall of Records in Keystone, SD – a historic landmark showcasing America's founding ideals and breathtaking Black Hills scenery.
Mount Rushmore National Memorial
0.3 km
Experience the iconic Mount Rushmore National Memorial, where history, art, and nature converge in breathtaking South Dakota.
Wrinkled Rock Climbers Trailhead
1.4 km
Explore the stunning rock formations and exhilarating climbing routes at Wrinkled Rock Climbers Trailhead in the enchanting Black Hills of South Dakota.
Breezy Point Picnic Area
2.0 km
Experience tranquility and adventure at Breezy Point Picnic Area, a must-visit destination in South Dakota's beautiful Black Hills.
Turtle Rock
2.1 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and unique geological formations at Turtle Rock in Custer, South Dakota, a nature lover's paradise.
Doane Robinson Tunnel (Tunnel view of Mount Rushmore)
2.1 km
Explore the Doane Robinson Tunnel for stunning views of Mount Rushmore, a historic landmark in the heart of South Dakota's Black Hills.
CC Gideon Tunnel
2.4 km
Explore the enchanting CC Gideon Tunnel, a historic landmark offering stunning views of Mount Rushmore and the natural beauty of South Dakota's Black Hills.
Horsethief Lake Loop Trailhead
2.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Horsethief Lake Loop Trailhead in South Dakota's Black Hills, a hiking paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Holy Terror Mini Golf
2.6 km
Experience whimsical fun at Holy Terror Mini Golf in Keystone, SD, where creativity meets friendly competition in a stunning Black Hills setting.
aerial adventure park
2.6 km
Explore the thrilling heights of Rushmore Tramway Adventures in Keystone, SD, for an unforgettable aerial experience surrounded by stunning Black Hills scenery.
Rushmore Tramway Adventures
2.6 km
Experience breathtaking views and thrilling adventures at Rushmore Tramway Adventures in South Dakota, perfect for families and adventure seekers alike.
The National Presidential Wax Museum
2.6 km
Experience American history at The National Presidential Wax Museum in Keystone, featuring lifelike figures of U.S. presidents and historical icons.
Borglum Story
2.7 km
Explore the inspiring legacy of Gutzon Borglum at Borglum Story, the museum dedicated to the visionary behind Mount Rushmore in Keystone, South Dakota.
Essential places to dine
Carvers' Café
0.2 km
Experience delightful dining with local flavors at Carvers' Café near Mount Rushmore National Memorial.
DAKOTA KITCHEN
0.3 km
Experience authentic South Dakota flavors at Dakota Kitchen near Mount Rushmore – where delicious meals meet stunning scenery.
Red's Chicken House & BBQ
2.4 km
Experience mouthwatering barbecue delights at Red's Chicken House & BBQ in Keystone, South Dakota – a must-visit culinary gem.
Dairy Queen Grill & Chill
2.5 km
Experience delicious fast food and irresistible ice cream at Dairy Queen Grill & Chill in Keystone, South Dakota - perfect for family outings.
Halleys West
2.5 km
Discover Halley's West in Keystone, SD - a family-friendly grill serving delicious local cuisine at affordable prices.
Grapes & Grinds
2.6 km
Experience the best of Keystone at Grapes & Grinds - your go-to coffee shop with unique gifts and delicious treats.
Quality Inn Keystone near Mount Rushmore
2.8 km
Discover comfort at Quality Inn Keystone near Mount Rushmore—your perfect base for exploring South Dakota's breathtaking landscapes.
Peggy's Place
2.8 km
Experience family-friendly dining at Peggy's Place in Keystone, SD – where comfort food meets warm hospitality.
Sirloin Steak Tips
2.8 km
Discover delicious steak dishes at Sirloin Steak Tips in Keystone, SD – an unforgettable dining experience surrounded by natural beauty.
Boss' Burgers and Cheesesteaks
2.8 km
Experience delicious burgers and cheesesteaks at Boss' Burgers and Cheesesteaks in Keystone, SD - where flavor meets friendly service.
Boss' Pizza & Chicken Keystone
2.8 km
Discover delicious pizza and chicken dishes at Boss' Pizza & Chicken in Keystone - a culinary delight amidst South Dakota's scenic beauty.
Jane's Boardwalk Pizza
2.9 km
Discover delicious gourmet pizzas at Jane's Boardwalk Pizza in Keystone, SD – perfect for families after exploring nearby attractions.
Ruby House Restaurant
2.9 km
Experience the heart of American dining at Ruby House Restaurant in Keystone, SD—perfectly suited for families and food lovers alike.
Red Garter Saloon
2.9 km
Discover the heartwarming ambiance and delectable dishes at Red Garter Saloon in Keystone, SD—a perfect retreat after exploring South Dakota's wonders.
Cruizzers
2.9 km
Experience mouthwatering pizzas at Cruizzers in Keystone – the perfect dining spot after exploring South Dakota's beautiful Black Hills.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Black Hills Glass Blowers
2.4 km
Explore the mesmerizing world of glass art at Black Hills Glass Blowers, a unique gift shop and gallery in Keystone, South Dakota.
South Dakota gifts and souvenirs
2.4 km
Explore the charm of South Dakota through unique gifts and souvenirs that reflect the rich culture and heritage of the Black Hills region.
Whispering PinesT-Shirts
2.4 km
Discover unique customizable t-shirts and apparel reflecting the spirit of South Dakota at Whispering Pines T-Shirts in Keystone.
Genuine Black Hills Gold-Knife and Survival Supplies
2.4 km
Explore Genuine Black Hills Gold-Knife and Survival Supplies in Keystone, SD – your ultimate destination for survival gear and exquisite jewelry.
Rattlesnake Jake's
2.4 km
Explore Rattlesnake Jake's in Keystone, South Dakota, for unique souvenirs and local treasures that capture the essence of the Black Hills.
SD Gifts and Knives
2.4 km
Explore SD Gifts and Knives in Keystone, SD for unique souvenirs and local craftsmanship that capture the spirit of South Dakota.
J&L Knives
2.4 km
Discover the art of knife making at J&L Knives in Keystone, SD – an essential stop for enthusiasts and travelers alike.
Mt Rushmore T-Shirts & Co
2.5 km
Shop unique Mount Rushmore-themed apparel and souvenirs at Mt Rushmore T-Shirts & Co in Keystone, South Dakota.
SoDak CLOTHING OUTLET
2.5 km
Explore SoDak Clothing Outlet in Keystone, SD for unique fashion treasures that capture the essence of local style and affordability.
Holy Terror Antiques
2.6 km
Discover unique vintage treasures at Holy Terror Antiques, a must-visit destination for antique lovers and collectors in Keystone, South Dakota.
Dahl's Chainsaw Art
2.7 km
Explore the artistry of Dahl's Chainsaw Art in Keystone, SD, where unique wooden sculptures and memorable gifts await every visitor.
Usa Shop
2.7 km
Explore the unique treasures of Usa Shop in Keystone, South Dakota, where American culture and local craftsmanship come together.
Black Hills Souvenirs & Gifts
2.8 km
Explore Black Hills Souvenirs & Gifts for unique treasures and authentic keepsakes reflecting the beauty and culture of the Black Hills region.
AURA Gallery and Hold
2.8 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local art at AURA Gallery and Hold, a charming gift shop in Keystone, South Dakota, celebrating the essence of the Black Hills.
Dakota Leather Outlet
2.8 km
Explore the finest leather goods at Dakota Leather Outlet in Keystone, South Dakota, where quality meets craftsmanship for every leather enthusiast.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Needles
8.8 km
Explore the stunning Needles of South Dakota, a breathtaking mountain peak known for its unique rock formations and rich wildlife, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Three Forks Bar & Grill
9.2 km
Experience the culinary delight of Three Forks Bar & Grill in Hill City, SD – where great food meets a vibrant bar atmosphere.
Sick-N-Twisted Brewery
9.4 km
Discover the art of brewing at Sick-N-Twisted Brewery, where craft beer meets delicious cuisine in a cozy Hill City atmosphere.
Silver Dollar Saloon
11.2 km
Discover the authentic Western experience at Silver Dollar Saloon in Hill City, SD, featuring local brews, hearty bites, and live entertainment.
HippieRockStar Boutique Wine & Beer Bar
11.3 km
Explore the delightful HippieRockStar Boutique Wine & Beer Bar in Hill City, South Dakota, for an unforgettable wine and beer experience.
Old Pine Social
16.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Old Pine Social, Custer's top amusement center, offering endless fun and relaxation for all ages.
Sage Creek Grille - Now Open!
16.9 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Sage Creek Grille in Custer, South Dakota, where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
