Black Hills Monuments Private Tour: Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse & Custer State Park
Spend a day driving the Black Hills’ most iconic sites—Mount Rushmore, the evolving Crazy Horse Memorial, and Custer State Park’s wildlife-rich loop. This private full-day tour mixes close-up monument access, Lakota history, and scenic drives with on-the-ground logistics and practical tips.
The Experience
Before You Go
Layer for variable weather
The Black Hills can swing from sun to wind quickly—bring a light insulating layer and a wind shell for comfort during overlooks.
Bring sturdy shoes
Expect paved walkways, boardwalks, and short uneven trails—supportive walking shoes or light hiking boots are best.
Carry water and snacks
Although the tour includes bottled water and lunch, keep a refillable bottle and small snacks for longer stretches between stops.
Mind the wildlife
Keep distance from bison and other animals in Custer State Park—do not approach or feed wildlife; stay in your vehicle if animals block the road.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Sculptor’s studio at Crazy Horse for close-up craft history
- •Quiet pullouts along the Wildlife Loop with prairie meadow views facing the Needles
Wildlife
- •Bison
- •Pronghorn antelope
Conservation Note
Custer State Park manages habitat through seasonal closures and visitor education; avoid leaving food or trash that attracts wildlife and use marked pullouts for viewing animals.
The Black Hills contain ancient Precambrian granite and are sacred to Lakota people; Mount Rushmore (completed 1941) and Crazy Horse (started 1948) represent different cultural responses to that landscape.
Photographer's Notes
- • Mount Rushmore Grand View Terrace for frontal shots
- • Crazy Horse observation platform for wide-angle scale photos
- • Ledges along the Wildlife Loop for prairie-and-peak panoramas
What to Bring
Supportive walking shoesEssential
Provides traction and comfort on paved paths, boardwalks, and short trail sections.
Light rain/wind shellEssential
Blocks sudden wind and spring showers common in the Black Hills.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Keeps you hydrated between included water breaks; refill at visitor centers.
Binoculars
Helps spot bison, pronghorn, and distant ridgeline details in the park.
Common Questions
How long is the tour and what times are typical?
This private tour runs about eight hours; pickup from Rapid City is typically around 8:30 AM with return in the late afternoon.
Are entrance fees and lunch included?
Yes—admission to Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, Custer State Park fees, bottled water, snacks, and lunch are included in the tour price.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Many viewpoints and visitor center areas are accessible, but some trails include stairs or uneven surfaces; contact the operator about specific accessibility needs.
Will I see wildlife?
Yes—Custer State Park regularly produces sightings of bison, pronghorn, wild burros, and other species, though wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed.
Can I photograph the monuments?
Photography for personal use is allowed at Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse; drones are restricted—check with your guide and site rules before flying any devices.
What is the cancellation policy?
All sales are final for this tour; there is no refund for cancellations and the operator may cancel in bad weather.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8 hours
Location
Rapid City, South Dakota
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; you should be able to walk short trails (0.5–1 mile) and stand for interpretive talks.
Ready to Explore Rapid City?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now