Mount Rushmore Discovery Tour

Rapid City, US
Self-guided

Included

  • inclusion
    Other
    Binoculars for viewing buffalo
  • inclusion
    Other
    Rain Umbrella's
  • inclusion
    Other
    All Fees and Taxes
  • inclusion
    Other
    Bottled water and light snacks.

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Lunch
    Lunch is on your own. We stop at the Legion Lake diner at 12:00 noon for lunch.
  • exclusion
    Other
    Gratuity

Meeting Point

The Heartland RV Park & Cabins is located 1.8 miles south of Hermosa on SD-79 S. We pick up in front of the office to the RV Park at 9:25 am to 9:30 am, departing at 9:30 am.

Meeting point

24743 SD-79, Hermosa, SD 57744 , United States

End point

End Point

The Heartland RV Park & Cabins is located 1.8 miles south of Hermosa on SD-79 S. We pick up in front of the office to the RV Park at 9:25 am to 9:30 am, departing at 9:30 am.

Meeting point

24743 SD-79, Hermosa, SD 57744 , United States

End point

What to expect

1

Meeting Point

The DoubleTree by Hilton is located at 505 N 5th Street, near downtown Rapid City. We load at the entrance to the hotel under the drive through canopy / portico from 8:40 am to 8:45 am, departing at 8:45 am. Plenty of parking in the hotel convention center parking lot.

2

Meeting Point

We load at the entrance to the hotel under the drive through canopy / portico. We load from 8:20 am to 8:30 am, departing at 8:30 am. There is plenty of parking in the hotel convention center parking lot.

3
Black Hills National Forest

The entire day trip is within the Black Hills National Forest that covers an area 125 miles long and 65 miles wide, a 1.25-million-acre forest! You spend about 2 hours driving time that is interspersed between the sites you visit as outlined below. Along the way, you take in the beauty of the Black Hills that encompasses rugged rock formations, canyons, gulches, open grassland, and mountain lakes, including learning about the rich history of the area, including Custer's expedition to the area in 1874.

4
Custer State Park Visitor Center

You will stop here for a short break to stretch the legs, watch a film on the history of Custer State Park, then head out to find the buffalo and other wildlife on the Wildlife Loop Road.

Duration 60 minutes
5
Custer State Park

Next stop is Custer State Park, a 72,000 acre state park and wildlife refuge. The park is home to a herd of 1,500 bison and a variety of other wildlife that roam free over the varied terrain that includes rolling prairie grasslands and rugged mountains.

Duration 120 minutes
Admission Admission Included
6

Heddy Draw Overlook

This is an overlook of one of the more beautiful overlooks in Custer State Park. The Mount Coolidge Fire Lookout Tower built by the Civilian Conservation Corp's in the late 1930's is in view.

Duration 10 minutes
7
Legion Lake

You stop for about an hour at the Legion Lake Restaurant for lunch. There is a sit down restaurant, a snack bar, and a coffee shop to choose from. Eat inside or enjoy a short stroll around the lake.

Duration 60 minutes
8
Iron Mountain Road

You drive the Iron Mountain Road, one of the most scenic and beautiful drives in the Black Hills! It winds through the countryside, traversing through three tunnels, navigating up and down switch-backs and pig-tail-bridges with views of Mount Rushmore along the way. The summit, also called the Peter Norbeck Scenic Overlook, provides a wonderful view of Mount Rushmore about a mile away. A breathtaking view! You can also see Black Elk Peak, the highest point in South Dakota at 7,200 feet above sea level. It is also the highest peak east of the Rockies.

Duration 15 minutes
Admission Admission Included
9
Mount Rushmore National Memorial

The last stop is Mount Rushmore National Memorial where the rich history of the United States is told through the lives of presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham enshrined on Mount Rushmore. Through their lives we learn about the birth, growth, development and preservation of this country. The memorial is surrounded by the beauty of the Black Hills.

Duration 75 minutes
Admission Admission Included
10

Keystone

You drive through this little historic mining town before heading back to the pickup locations at the Heartland RV & Campground and Rapid City.

11

Rapid City

The tour ends back in Rapid City at your pickup locations.

Duration 1 minutes
12

End Point

The DoubleTree by Hilton is located at 505 N 5th Street, near downtown Rapid City. We load at the entrance to the hotel under the drive through canopy / portico from 8:40 am to 8:45 am, departing at 8:45 am. Plenty of parking in the hotel convention center parking lot.

13

End Point

We load at the entrance to the hotel under the drive through canopy / portico. We load from 8:20 am to 8:30 am, departing at 8:30 am. There is plenty of parking in the hotel convention center parking lot.

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Provided by Black Hills Day Trips

What our experts say

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    Try local bison dishes at lunch.
  • icon
    Visit the Custer State Park Visitor Center.
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    Don't miss the views from Iron Mountain Road.
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    Bring a camera for stunning vistas!
  • icon
    Arrive early for prime parking spots.

More About this Experience

Introduction

The Mount Rushmore Discovery Tour is an unforgettable journey through one of America’s most iconic landscapes. Spanning eight hours, this immersive tour is designed to showcase the majestic Mount Rushmore and the stunning beauty of Custer State Park. Travelers will not only witness the awe-inspiring faces of four great American presidents carved into granite but will also explore the rich history of the Black Hills region. The tour expertly combines sightseeing with engaging storytelling, making it perfect for families, history buffs, and nature lovers alike. As participants traverse the breathtaking terrain, they will learn about the significance of these national treasures and the historical context of the westward expansion in North America. With comfortable transportation and well-informed guides, this experience promises to create lasting memories against a backdrop of stunning natural beauty.

What to expect?

Expect a day filled with adventure and discovery as you delve deep into the heart of South Dakota’s rich history and natural wonders. The tour kicks off with a guided visit to Mount Rushmore, where stories of the presidents and their monumental contributions to the nation unfold. Next, you'll embark on a scenic drive through Custer State Park, home to a diverse array of wildlife, including a spectacular herd of 1,500 bison roaming freely. Participants can look forward to leisurely stops at picturesque locations like Heddy Draw Overlook and Legion Lake, where the enchanting landscapes will take their breath away. As you soak in the breathtaking views and absorb the fascinating history, you’ll have access to binoculars for spotting wildlife and enjoy light snacks and bottled water throughout the day. It's an experience that seamlessly blends education, exploration, and enjoyment, perfect for everyone in the family.

Who is this for?

The Mount Rushmore Discovery Tour is tailored for a diverse range of travelers, making it an ideal choice for families, couples, and solo adventurers seeking a unique experience. Whether you're a history enthusiast eager to learn about America's past, a nature lover wanting to immerse yourself in stunning landscapes, or simply looking for an exciting outing with loved ones, this tour caters to all. The tour is designed to be inclusive, accommodating varying physical fitness levels, and even infants can participate comfortably in strollers. With its small group setting, participants can expect a more personalized experience, fostering a sense of community among fellow travelers. This adventure is perfect for anyone who wants to create unforgettable memories while exploring the natural and historical treasures of the Black Hills.

Why book this?

Booking the Mount Rushmore Discovery Tour is not just about sightseeing; it’s about creating lifelong memories in one of America’s most beautiful settings. This tour distinguishes itself with its engaging storytelling, knowledgeable guides, and the opportunity to explore iconic landmarks in a relaxed, enjoyable manner. From the moment you step on the comfortable transportation, you’ll be immersed in the history and beauty of the region, with all the details taken care of, allowing you to focus solely on enjoying the experience. The inclusion of light snacks and water ensures that you stay refreshed while you soak in the stunning vistas and captivating narratives. Plus, with a focus on small group sizes, you'll enjoy a more intimate experience, allowing for personal connections and a rich exchange of stories. It’s a chance to step away from the hustle and bustle and truly connect with the land and its history.

Good to know

Before embarking on the Mount Rushmore Discovery Tour, it's essential to prepare for a day of exploration. While lunch is not included, there will be ample opportunities to grab a bite at the Legion Lake Restaurant or enjoy a snack during the journey. The meeting points are conveniently located at the Heartland RV Park & Cabins and the DoubleTree by Hilton, making it easy for travelers to join the tour. With public transportation options nearby, access is hassle-free. As the tour is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, it’s a fantastic option for families. Travelers should be aware that infants will need to sit on an adult's lap during the journey. This is a wonderful opportunity to experience the rich tapestry of American history and the breathtaking landscapes of the Black Hills in a comfortable and enjoyable setting.

Reviews

Feedback from previous guests of the Mount Rushmore Discovery Tour has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the engaging storytelling and breathtaking scenery. Participants rave about the knowledgeable guides who share fascinating historical insights, making the experience both educational and entertaining. Families particularly appreciate the ease of travel and the thoughtful inclusions, which make the day enjoyable for everyone, from young children to adults. Many travelers express how the stunning views and the thrill of seeing bison in their natural habitat added a magical touch to their adventure. The general consensus is that this tour is a must-do for anyone visiting the Black Hills, with numerous guests mentioning that it exceeded their expectations and left them with cherished memories they will treasure for years to come.

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