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January 25, 2022

15 Best Things To Do Near Mount Rushmore

Last Updated: March 2026
Mount Rushmore National Memorial complete travel guide - granite presidential sculptures carved into the Black Hills of South Dakota glowing at sunset, promoting a guide to the best things to do near Mount Rushmore including hiking, Crazy Horse Memorial, Custer State Park, Needles Highway, and Badlands National Park

Are you planning a trip to South Dakota? There are so many amazing things to do in this beautiful state, way more than most people realize!

If you’re heading to Mount Rushmore, you probably don’t know how many incredible things are in the same general area. The Black Hills region is absolutely packed with national parks, scenic drives, quirky roadside stops, and genuine Wild West history. You could easily spend a week here and not see everything.

I’ve put together this guide to help you plan your trip with 15 awesome things to do near Mount Rushmore, from bucket-list national parks to a memorial that will eventually be larger than Rushmore itself.

Check out my South Dakota Bucket List for even more ideas on what to do in this underrated state!

You May Also Like:

  • One Day In Badlands National Park
  • Is Badlands National Park Dog-Friendly?
  • 10 Fun Things To Do At Badlands National Park
  • Top 16 Things To Do In South Dakota
  • 14 Fun Things To Do In Deadwood, South Dakota
15 Best Things To Do Near Mount Rushmore
 [show]
  • The Basics: Mount Rushmore
    • Getting To Mount Rushmore – 
    • Hours (remember South Dakota is on Mountain Time) –
    • Cost – 
    • How Far Do You Have To Walk To See Mount Rushmore? –
  • Know Before You Go: Mount Rushmore Edition
  • 11 Things To Do Near Mount Rushmore
    • Badlands National Park
    • Wall Drug
    • Custer State Park
    • Needles Highway
    • Hike Black Elk Peak
    • Crazy Horse Memorial
    • Wind Cave National Park
    • Mammoth Sight & Museum
    • Spearfish Scenic Byway
    • Deadwood
    • Tatonka: Story Of The Bison

This article may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see the affiliate disclaimer here. 

The Basics: Mount Rushmore

Are you wondering if Mount Rushmore is worth a visit? Short answer: yes, but manage your expectations. It’s smaller than most people expect (each face is “only” 60 feet high), and it’s incredibly crowded. That said, there’s something genuinely awe-inspiring about seeing it in person, especially at the evening lighting ceremony.

Getting To Mount Rushmore

Address: 13000 SD-244, Keystone, SD 57751

Mount Rushmore is located in Keystone, South Dakota, in the heart of the Black Hills.

Drive Times:
  • 30 minutes from Rapid City -Take Route 16 through Black Hills National Forest. This is the way I went, and it’s a really scenic drive!
  • 40 minutes from Custer State Park – Take 16A through Black Hills National Forest. Also, an incredibly beautiful drive.
  • 25 minutes from Keystone – The closest town with lodging and restaurants.

Mount Rushmore Hours

Remember: South Dakota is on Mountain Time!

  • Parking structure and memorial grounds: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM
  • Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (hours may vary seasonally)
  • Gift Shop: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM (summer), reduced hours off-season
  • Carvers’ Café: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (hours vary seasonally)
  • Evening Lighting Ceremony: Sunset – 9:00 PM (May through September)

Pro tip: The evening lighting ceremony is worth sticking around for. They illuminate the sculpture after sunset, and it’s genuinely moving, especially with the patriotic program that accompanies it.

Mount Rushmore Cost

Here’s something most people don’t realize: there’s no entrance fee to Mount Rushmore itself. You only pay for parking.

  • Cars, Motorcycles, and RVs: $10 per vehicle
  • Seniors (62+): $5 with America the Beautiful Senior Pass
  • Active Duty Military: FREE with valid ID
  • America the Beautiful Annual Pass holders: Parking fee still applies (the pass doesn’t cover it)
  • Commercial Tour Bus: $125
  • Non-Profit Educational Bus: $50

The parking pass is valid for one year, so if you’re planning multiple visits, you’re covered!

How Far Do You Have To Walk To See Mount Rushmore?

Mount Rushmore is very accessible. Walking is pretty minimal from the parking garage to Grand View Terrace, where most people take their photos. It’s a paved, relatively flat walk, manageable for most mobility levels.

If you want to get closer, the Presidential Trail is a 0.6-mile loop with stairs that takes you to the base of the mountain for different angles and views.


Mount Rushmore National Memorial full mountain view from a distance in the Black Hills of South Dakota - granite presidential carvings of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln set against a dramatic cloudy sky, surrounded by dense ponderosa pine forest, showcasing what to see and do near Mount Rushmore on a road trip through the Black Hills

Know Before You Go: Mount Rushmore Edition

  • Be prepared for crowds. Mount Rushmore hosts approximately 2.5-3 million visitors a year. It’s busy ALL the time, especially summer weekends.
  • No reservations necessary. Just show up!
  • Limited connectivity. There is no public wifi and the cell signal is spotty. Download any maps or info you need before you arrive.
  • Expect traffic. Back-ups sometimes occur at the entrance to the parking garage, especially during peak hours (10 AM – 3 PM).
  • Pets are limited. Leashed pets are allowed only in the parking garages and the areas immediately adjacent to them. Pet exercise areas with waste bags are provided. Service dogs are allowed everywhere.
  • Don’t over-plan your time here. Honestly? 2-3 hours is plenty for most people. The memorial itself doesn’t take long to see, it’s the surrounding Black Hills attractions that deserve your time.

🐾 Dog-Friendly Note: Mt. Rushmore itself isn’t great for dogs since they can’t go beyond the parking area. But don’t worry, I’ve got dog-friendly options throughout this list!

For more information on visiting Mount Rushmore, check out the official NPS website.

15 Best Things To Do Near Mount Rushmore

Sitting on a rock ledge overlooking the dramatic landscape of Badlands National Park, South Dakota — layered canyon buttes, eroded rock spires, and vast open grasslands visible from a scenic overlook, capturing what it feels like to visit Badlands National Park on a Black Hills road trip or South Dakota National Park itinerary

1. Badlands National Park

Drive Time from Mt. Rushmore: 1 hour 20 minutes

If you’re traveling from the East like I was, you’ll hit Badlands before Mount Rushmore. And honestly? Badlands National Park is 1000% worth a visit, even if you can only spend a day in the park!

The landscape here is otherworldly with dramatic striped rock formations, vast prairies, and some of the most stunning sunrises and sunsets you’ll ever see. It looks like you’ve landed on another planet.

What to do:

  • Drive the Badlands Loop Road (30 miles of incredible views)
  • Hike the Notch Trail or Door Trail
  • Watch for bison, bighorn sheep, and prairie dogs
  • Catch sunrise or sunset at one of the overlooks

🐾 Dog-Friendly: Badlands is more dog-friendly than most national parks! Dogs are allowed on the Badlands Loop Road, in parking areas, and on one trail — the Castle Trail.

For more information, read: One Day In Badlands National Park, Is Badlands National Park Dog-Friendly?, 10 Fun Things To Do At Badlands National ParkBadlands National Park


2. Custer State Park

  • Address: 13329 US Highway 16A, Custer, SD 57730
  • Drive Time from Mt. Rushmore: 35-45 minutes
  • Cost: $20 per vehicle (valid for 7 consecutive days)

Custer State Park is really close to Mount Rushmore, so it’s kind of a two-for-the-price-of-one deal — you could easily fit both into one day. Although I do recommend at least 2 or 3 days in Custer in order to really explore all that this park has to offer.

This is one of the largest state parks in the country, and it’s absolutely stunning. The main draws are the scenic drives, the wildlife (especially the famous bison herd of around 1,300 animals!), and the beautiful lakes.

Must-do scenic drives:

  • Wildlife Loop Road – 18 miles through open prairies where you’ll almost certainly see bison, pronghorn, prairie dogs, and “begging burros” (wild donkeys that approach cars looking for snacks — don’t feed them!)
  • Needles Highway – See #3 below!
  • Iron Mountain Road – Pigtail bridges, tunnels that perfectly frame Mt. Rushmore, incredible engineering

🐾 Dog-Friendly: Dogs are allowed in Custer State Park on leash! They can join you on the scenic drives, at picnic areas, and in campgrounds. Some trails allow dogs too.

For more, read: Top 16 Things To Do In South Dakota

3. Needles Highway

granite tunnel on needles highway south dakota
Photo by fish socks on Pexels.com
  • Drive Time from Mt. Rushmore: 45-50 minutes.
  • Best time to drive: Spring through fall (closed in winter)

Needles Highway is a 14-mile stretch of road that offers absolutely jaw-dropping views. It’s a spectacular drive through pine and spruce forests, meadows surrounded by aspens, and rugged granite mountains.

The road’s name comes from the needle-like granite formations that seem to pierce the horizon along the highway. These spires are seriously impressive — some reach heights of over 300 feet!

What makes it special:

  • Narrow tunnels carved through solid rock (some barely fit a car!)
  • Dramatic switchbacks and curves
  • The famous Needles Eye — a 30-40 foot granite spire with a 3-4 foot slit through it
  • Incredible photo opportunities around every bend

⚠️ Important: Due to the narrow, winding roads and tight tunnels, Needles Highway is NOT suitable for large RVs or vehicles over 8 feet wide. Check size restrictions before you go!


4. Crazy Horse Memorial

the crazy horse memorial in south dakota
Photo by Mirrorless Reflections on Pexels.com
  • Address: 12151 Avenue of the Chiefs, Crazy Horse, SD 57730
  • Drive Time from Mt. Rushmore: 25-30 minutes Cost: $15 per person (ages 6+), or $30-40 per carload

Once it’s finished, the Crazy Horse Memorial will be the world’s largest mountain carving, and yes, it will be MUCH larger than Mount Rushmore. The face alone (which is complete) is 87 feet high. For comparison, the entire height of Washington’s face on Mount Rushmore is 60 feet.

The mission of the Crazy Horse Memorial Foundation is admirable. They’re working to protect and preserve the culture, tradition, and heritage of North American Indians. The memorial was begun in 1948 by sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski at the request of Lakota Chief Henry Standing Bear, and work continues today — entirely funded by private donations.

What’s there:

  • Views of the sculpture in progress
  • The Indian Museum of North America
  • The Native American Educational & Cultural Center
  • Sculptor’s studio and workshop
  • Restaurant and gift shop

Fun fact: When completed, the sculpture will be 641 feet long and 563 feet high. The outstretched arm pointing over the horse’s head will be 263 feet long. Absolutely massive.

Learn more here


5. Wind Cave National Park

  • Address: 26611 US Highway 385, Hot Springs, SD 57747
  • Drive Time from Mt. Rushmore: 45-50 minutes
  • Cost: No entrance fee! Cave tours are $8-15 per person, depending on the tour.

Wind Cave National Park is definitely a lesser-known park, but it’s absolutely worth a visit on your next South Dakota road trip. It’s one of the longest and most complex caves in the world, with over 150 miles of explored passages (and counting!).

But Wind Cave isn’t just about touring the caves. Whether it’s going for a hike, viewing wildlife, or pitching a tent in the backcountry, there’s so much to do! The park also protects a mixed-grass prairie ecosystem where you can see bison, elk, pronghorn, and prairie dogs.

Cave tour options:

  • Garden of Eden Tour – Easiest tour, 1 hour, moderate walking
  • Natural Entrance Tour – Most popular, 1.25 hours, 300+ stairs
  • Fairgrounds Tour – 1.5 hours, paved but longer
  • Candlelight Tour – Specialty tour with old-school lanterns (seasonal)
  • Wild Cave Tour – For adventurous types, 4 hours of crawling through tight spaces!

🐾 Dog-Friendly BONUS: Wind Cave National Park is semi-pet-friendly! There are two dog-friendly trails within park limits: the Prairie Vista Trail and the Elk Mountain Campground Trail.

Find out more here


6. Deadwood

Historic Main Street Deadwood, South Dakota — iconic welcome arch sign over downtown Deadwood with the Silverado Franklin Hotel and casino in the foreground, surrounded by classic late 1800s brick architecture and Black Hills pine-covered hillsides, showcasing what to see and do in Deadwood SD on a Mount Rushmore and Black Hills road trip itinerary

Drive Time from Mt. Rushmore: 55 minutes – 1 hour

You’ve probably heard about or seen the HBO series Deadwood. But the actual town in South Dakota is a must-see in its own right!

If you’ve heard of Deadwood, then you know about the crazy characters that called this once rough-and-tumble town home. This one-time gold camp turned town was known for its gamblers and gunslingers alike!

Don’t miss:

  • Mount Moriah Cemetery – Visit the graves of Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane. Wild Bill was only in Deadwood for 2 short weeks before he was gunned down while playing poker (he was holding what’s now known as the “dead man’s hand,” aces and eights). Calamity Jane, known for her beer drinking, tobacco spitting, and colorful language, claimed to love Wild Bill, who was married and did not return the sentiment. So naturally, the townspeople buried them next to each other for all eternity. The drama!
  • Historic Main Street – Preserved buildings, museums, and yes, legal gambling
  • The Adams Museum – Free admission, great Wild West artifacts
  • Trial of Jack McCall – Re-enactment of Wild Bill’s killer’s trial (seasonal)

There’s so much to do in Deadwood, and it’s absolutely worth a visit. I recommend a long weekend here to really appreciate all that Deadwood has to offer.

To Find Out More About Deadwood, Check Out: 14 Fun Things To Do In Deadwood, South Dakota, Deadwood, South Dakota: History Nugget


7. Wall Drug

  • Address: 510 Main St, Wall, SD 57790
  • Drive Time from Mt. Rushmore: 1 hour 15 minutes

If you’re looking for some kitschy fun, then check out Wall Drug. If you’re driving through South Dakota, you will see a million billboards for this place. Some will make you laugh, others are a little cringey, but they definitely get your attention!

What started as a small drugstore in 1931, offering free ice water to hot, dusty travelers, is now a 76,000-square-foot complex that’s become a South Dakota institution.

What you’ll find:

  • A giant animatronic T-Rex
  • A “Jackalope” you can sit on for photos
  • Western art gallery
  • Chapel
  • Backyard with more photo ops than you can count
  • 5-cent coffee (yes, really)
  • Homemade donuts that are actually delicious

Is it touristy? Absolutely. Is it worth stopping? I think so — it’s a quintessential American road trip experience.


8. Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway

Photo by Tyler Kissner on Pexels.com

Drive Time from Mt. Rushmore: 1 hour 15 minutes

The 22-mile Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway is one of the most beautiful drives in the Black Hills, and that’s saying something in an area packed with scenic drives.

The journey begins at Exit 10 or Exit 14 off Interstate 90. In the fall, the canyon explodes with color as the aspens, birch, and oak trees turn gold, orange, and red. Even in summer, the towering limestone cliffs, waterfalls, and dense forest make this drive absolutely stunning.

Don’t miss:

  • Bridal Veil Falls – A beautiful waterfall right off the road
  • Roughlock Falls – Short walk to a gorgeous cascade (featured in the movie Dances with Wolves)
  • Spearfish Falls – Easy access from Latchstring Restaurant
  • Hiking – Side canyons like Iron Creek and Eleventh Hour Gulch offer great exploring

Bicyclists love the wide shoulders and the road’s uniform 3% grade; it’s a popular cycling route.


9. Hike Black Elk Peak

  • Drive Time to Trailhead: 35-40 minutes from Mt. Rushmore
  • Distance: 7.4 miles round trip (via Trail #9)
  • Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
  • Elevation Gain: 1,500 feet

At 7,242 feet, Black Elk Peak is the highest point in South Dakota, and the highest summit east of the Rockies. The views from the top are absolutely incredible; on a clear day, you can see into Wyoming, Nebraska, Montana, and North Dakota.

The historic stone fire tower at the summit was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s and is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Trail options:

  • Trail #9 from Sylvan Lake – Most popular, 7.4 miles round trip
  • Trail #4 from the Cathedral Spires Trailhead – Longer but less crowded

🐾 Dog-Friendly: Yes! This hike is dog-friendly, and the pups love it. Just make sure you bring enough water, the pups and I like this collapsible bowl plus my backpack with a reservoir. I also take these treats if the hike is more than a few miles.

Note: There may be a $5 wilderness permit fee depending on when you visit. Check current requirements before you go.


10. Mammoth Site

  • Address: 1800 US-18 BYP, Hot Springs, SD 57747
  • Drive Time from Mt. Rushmore: 1 hour
  • Cost: $14 adults, $12 seniors (60+), $10 children (4-12), free under 4

This place is SO cool and has an incredible story.

In 1974, a heavy equipment operator was leveling ground in Hot Springs for a housing development when he struck something. Upon closer inspection, he saw that it was a 7-foot-long tusk, along with other large bones. Can you imagine seeing something like that?!

The bones turned out to be those of a Columbian mammoth. And not just one, there are 61 mammoths that have been discovered here so far, plus remains of other Ice Age animals like the giant short-faced bear, camel, and wolf.

The area is believed to have been a large sinkhole formed about 26,000 years ago. Sadly, many animals were trapped by the steep, slippery sides and couldn’t escape. Today, you can watch active excavations (they’re still finding bones!) and see the remains exactly where they were discovered.

What’s included:

  • Guided tour of the excavation site
  • Mammoth bones in situ (where they fell)
  • Interactive exhibits
  • Ice Age exhibit hall

This is genuinely one of the most unique museum experiences I’ve ever had. Don’t skip it!


11. Tatanka: Story of the Bison

Wild American bison fighting in the sagebrush plains of South Dakota — two bison sparring head-to-head with dust rising around them in open prairie grasslands, showcasing the incredible wildlife viewing opportunities near Mount Rushmore, Badlands National Park, and Custer State Park on a Black Hills road trip
  • Address: 100 Tatanka Dr, Deadwood, SD 57732
  • Drive Time from Mt. Rushmore: 1 hour
  • Cost: $14 adults, $12 seniors, $6 children (5-16)

This exhibit pays tribute to the millions of bison that once roamed this region of the United States and commemorates the native cultures that prospered alongside the bison.

Here’s a fun fact: Kevin Costner actually founded and funded Tatanka! Yes, that Kevin Costner, the Dances with Wolves guy. Makes sense, right?

The centerpiece is a massive bronze sculpture by artist Peggy Detmers featuring 14 bison being pursued by 3 Native American hunters on horseback. It’s incredibly dramatic and beautifully done.

The interpretive center tells the story of the Lakota people and the bison through exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia presentations. It’s educational, moving, and absolutely worth a visit.

Find out more here


12. Iron Mountain Road

Drive Time from Mt. Rushmore: Starts right at the memorial!

Iron Mountain Road (Highway 16A) is often called one of the most spectacular drives in America, and I’m not going to argue. It was specifically designed in the 1930s to showcase Mount Rushmore, and the engineering is absolutely wild.

What makes it special:

  • Pigtail bridges – Corkscrew bridges that loop over themselves to manage elevation changes
  • One-lane tunnels – Three tunnels that perfectly frame Mount Rushmore (seriously, it’s like looking through a viewfinder!)
  • Dramatic switchbacks – 314 curves, 14 switchbacks, and 3 tunnels in just 17 miles
  • Low speed limit – 35 mph max, but you’ll want to go slower to take it all in

This road was designed by Senator Peter Norbeck, who envisioned every curve and tunnel. He reportedly crawled through the forest on his hands and knees to plot the exact route.

⚠️ Important: Not recommended for large RVs or vehicles over 11 feet high. Tunnel heights are limited.


13. Sylvan Lake

Drive Time from Mt. Rushmore: 25-30 minutes

Sylvan Lake is one of the most photographed spots in South Dakota, and once you see it, you’ll understand why. This crystal-clear lake surrounded by dramatic granite formations is absolutely stunning.

The lake sits at an elevation of 6,200 feet in Custer State Park and is a great spot for:

  • Easy walking – The 1.1-mile Sylvan Lake Shore Trail loops around the entire lake
  • Swimming – Designated swimming area (cold but refreshing!)
  • Kayaking/paddleboarding – Rentals available at the Sylvan Lake Lodge
  • Rock climbing – Popular spot for climbers
  • Photography – The rock formations are incredible, especially at golden hour

🐾 Dog-Friendly: Dogs are allowed on leash around Sylvan Lake!

Fun fact: Scenes from the 2007 National Treasure: Book of Secrets were filmed here.


14. Jewel Cave National Monument

  • Address: 11149 US Highway 16, Custer, SD 57730
  • Drive Time from Mt. Rushmore: 35 minutes
  • Cost: No entrance fee; cave tours $8-12

Jewel Cave is the third-longest cave in the world, with over 215 miles of mapped passages, and they’re still exploring! It gets its name from the sparkling calcite crystals that cover the cave walls.

If you can only do one cave in the Black Hills, this might be the one. The crystals are genuinely spectacular.

Tour options:

  • Scenic Tour – 1.5 hours, 723 stairs, sees the best crystal formations
  • Discovery Tour – 20 minutes, accessible, surface building only (cave closed for renovation — check current status)
  • Wild Caving Tour – 3-4 hours, crawling through tight spaces (reservation required)

Check tour availability here


Learn more about Crazy Horse in the history nugget below. Once it is finished the Crazy Horse Memorial will be the world’s largest mountain carving, and yes, it will be larger than Mount Rushmore. The mission of the Crazy Horse Memorial Foundation is an admirable one. They are trying to protect and preserve the culture, tradition, and heritage of the North American Indians.

Learn more here.

This exhibit is not free, it costs $12 but you get access to all that Tatanka has to offer. This exhibit pays tribute to the millions of bison that once roamed this region of the United States. It also commemorates native cultures that prospered alongside the bison. Remember Kevin Costner? He actually founded and operated Tatanka. The exhibit features a bronze sculpture of bison being pursued by Native Americans on horseback. It’s very cool and definitely worth a visit! Find out more here. 


15. Devils Tower National Monument (Wyoming)

devils tower national monument in crook county wyoming usa
Photo by Mick Haupt on Pexels.com
  • Address: Devils Tower, WY 82714
  • Drive Time from Mt. Rushmore: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Cost: $25 per vehicle (valid for 7 days) or free with America the Beautiful Pass

Okay, technically this one is in Wyoming, but it’s only 90 minutes from Mount Rushmore and absolutely worth the drive. Devils Tower is one of the most iconic landmarks in America, and seeing it rise out of the landscape is genuinely jaw-dropping.

This massive igneous rock formation stands 867 feet from base to summit and looks like nothing else on Earth. You’ve probably seen it before, it was featured in Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977), and once you see it in person, you’ll understand why Spielberg chose it.

What to do:

  • Tower Trail – 1.3-mile paved loop around the base with stunning views from every angle
  • Red Beds Trail – 3-mile loop through the surrounding landscape
  • Rock climbing – Devils Tower is a world-famous climbing destination (permit required)
  • Wildlife watching – Prairie dogs, deer, and wild turkeys are common
  • Stargazing – The park has excellent dark skies

Cultural significance: Devils Tower is sacred to more than 20 Native American tribes, who have their own names and origin stories for it. The Lakota call it “Bear Lodge” (Mato Tipila). Please be respectful of ceremonial prayer cloths and bundles you may see tied to trees around the base.

🐾 Dog-Friendly: Yes! Dogs are welcome on leash on the Tower Trail and Red Beds Trail, one of the few places where your pups can experience a national monument with you!

Learn more here

Interesting Facts About Mount Rushmore

Close-up of Mount Rushmore National Memorial carvings in the Black Hills of South Dakota — detailed view of the granite faces of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln against a blue sky, ideal for a guide to visiting Mount Rushmore including tips on the best viewpoints, Grand View Terrace, Presidential Trail, and things to do near Mount Rushmore in South Dakota

The mountain’s original name: The mountain that Borglum chose to carve was known to the Lakota Sioux as “Six Grandfathers” (Tȟuŋkášila Šákpe). It was renamed Mount Rushmore in 1885 after New York attorney Charles Rushmore, who was visiting the area on a legal matter.

Remarkably safe construction: The actual carving was done by a team of about 400 workers. Remarkably, no one died during construction, pretty incredible given the dangerous conditions.

Dynamite did most of the work: 90% of the mountain was carved with dynamite. More than 450,000 tons of rock were removed!

Each face is 60 feet high. That’s about the height of a 6-story building.

Originally supposed to include bodies: The carving was originally meant to include the presidents from head to waist, but funding ran out.

The mountain goats are Canadian: Rushmore’s resident mountain goats are descendants of a herd that was gifted to Custer State Park by Canada in 1924. They wandered over to Mount Rushmore and never left!

There’s a secret room: Mount Rushmore has a chamber behind Abraham Lincoln’s head called the Hall of Records. Sculptor Gutzon Borglum designed it to hold information about the monument and American history. It was left unfinished when Borglum died in 1941, but in 1998, a repository of records was placed inside, though it’s not open to the public.

It took 14 years: Construction began in 1927 and was declared complete in 1941.


Best Time to Visit Mount Rushmore

Mount Rushmore National Memorial viewed from the Avenue of Flags — colorful U.S. state and territory flags line the Grand View Terrace promenade with the four presidential carvings visible above the Black Hills pine forest and talus slope, one of the most iconic viewpoints for visiting Mount Rushmore National Memorial in Keystone, South Dakota on a Black Hills road trip itinerary

Best Season: Late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October) offer the best balance of good weather and manageable crowds.

Summer (June-August): Peak season. Expect crowds, especially on weekends. The evening lighting ceremony runs nightly.

Fall (September-November): Beautiful foliage, thinner crowds, cooler temps. The evening program runs through early October.

Winter (December-February): Fewest crowds, but some facilities may be closed or have reduced hours. Can be cold!

Best Time of Day: Early morning (before 10 AM) or late afternoon/evening. Midday is the busiest. If possible, stay for the evening lighting ceremony; it’s genuinely worth it.


Where to Stay Near Mount Rushmore

Keystone — Closest town to the monument (10 minutes). Touristy but convenient.

Custer — Cute town with a main street feel (25 minutes). Close to Custer State Park.

Hill City — Artsy mountain town (20 minutes). Good restaurant scene.

Rapid City — Largest city in the region (35 minutes). Most hotel/dining options, plus the Art Alley and downtown.

Deadwood — If you want Wild West vibes and casinos (1 hour).


How Many Days Do You Need Near Mount Rushmore?

Here’s my honest take:

  • 1 day: You can see Mt. Rushmore + one nearby attraction (Crazy Horse OR Custer State Park)
  • 2-3 days: Comfortable pace for Mt. Rushmore + Custer State Park + Crazy Horse + one scenic drive
  • 4-5 days: Add Badlands National Park + Deadwood + a cave tour
  • 1 week+: Full Black Hills experience, including all the scenic drives, multiple hikes, and proper time in Deadwood and Badlands

I wouldn’t plan more than a few hours at Mount Rushmore itself, but the surrounding Black Hills region absolutely deserves at least 3-5 days!


mount rushmore in united states
Photo by Karlee Heck on Pexels.com

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Mount Rushmore worth visiting? Yes, but manage your expectations. The sculpture is smaller than many people expect, and it’s very crowded. That said, it’s genuinely impressive in person, especially during the evening lighting ceremony. The real value is combining it with the incredible Black Hills region.

How much time do you need at Mount Rushmore? 2-3 hours is plenty for most people to see the memorial, walk the Presidential Trail, visit the museum, and grab a bite.

Can you bring dogs to Mount Rushmore? Dogs are only allowed in the parking garage area and adjacent pet exercise areas; they can’t go to the viewing terraces. Service dogs are the exception.

Is Mount Rushmore free? There’s no entrance fee, but parking costs $10 per vehicle ($5 for seniors).

What’s the best time of day to visit Mount Rushmore? Early morning or late afternoon/evening. Midday is the most crowded. The evening lighting ceremony (sunset to 9 PM, May-September) is highly recommended.

What else is there to do near Mount Rushmore? So much! Custer State Park, Crazy Horse Memorial, Badlands National Park, Wind Cave, Jewel Cave, Deadwood, Spearfish Canyon, and multiple scenic drives. You could easily spend a week in the area.

South Dakota is one of those states that will absolutely surprise you! There is so much to see and do in this beautiful part of the country, way more than most people realize. Mount Rushmore might be the headliner, but honestly? The supporting cast steals the show. Between Badlands, Custer State Park, the scenic drives, and the quirky roadside stops, you could spend a week in the Black Hills and still not see everything.

Do yourself a favor and plan a trip to South Dakota soon. You won’t regret it!

Like This Post? Pin It For Later!

Have a favorite Black Hills attraction I missed? Drop it in the comments, I’m always looking for new spots to explore!

Posted In: Bucketlist Travel, Mountain States, Travel Guides, United States · Tagged: National Parks, South Dakota, South Dakota Travel, Things To Do In South Dakota

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Hi! I'm Vanessa, a 30 something, sunset chasing traveler. I'm here to inspire you to travel wherever, whenever, and with whoever you can. My Huskies, Loki and Freya are usually along for the ride. I have a soul that likes to wander, a desire to experience the unknown, and a curiousity to discover things off the beaten path. I hope you'll stick around for awhile!

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Recent Posts

  • Phoenix To Grand Canyon: The Ultimate Winter Road Trip Guide
  • 15 Best Dog Friendly Hikes at Acadia National Park
  • The 18 Best Things to Do in Bar Harbor, Maine
  • The Ultimate Winter Guide to the Grand Canyon
  • 2026 National Parks Guide: New Fees, Reservation Systems & Timed Entry Explained

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If travel has taught me one thing… 🪻☀️🌙✨ It’s To If travel has taught me one thing…

🪻☀️🌙✨ It’s To Pay Attention.

There’s an art to traveling slowly, and most people never learn it…

They’re the details you almost walked past. 🌿
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#SlowTravel #TheArtOfNoticing #WellWornShoes #TravelDifferently #acadianationalpark
Found the off-leash loophole (it’s amazing leashed Found the off-leash loophole (it’s amazing leashed as well) near Acadia and our dogs have never been happier.

Little Long Pond. 12 minutes from Bar Harbor. 1,000 acres. Former Rockefeller estate. Free. Your dogs can swim. You’re welcome.

Full dog-friendly Acadia guide on the blog - link in bio!

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#dogfriendlytravel #acadianationalpark #barharbormaine #offleash #hikingwithdogs
It’s World Bear Day and I’m mentally back in Cades It’s World Bear Day and I’m mentally back in Cades Cove, watching a black bear completely ignore 47 minivans pulled over to stare at him. Living the dream, honestly 🐻

The Smokies have one of the healthiest black bear populations in the eastern US, around 1,500 bears across the park. That’s something worth celebrating AND protecting.

Because here’s the thing: those bears don’t need us. They need us to leave them alone. No feeding, no approaching, no tossing snacks out the window because he looked hungry. (He’s fine. He’s a bear.)

The best wildlife encounter is one where the animal walks away completely unbothered by your existence. That’s the goal. That’s the win.

If you haven’t driven that loop at golden hour with the windows down and zero agenda, add it to the list immediately.

Happy World Bear Day to the bears, the conservationists, and everyone who’s ever sat in a bear jam and felt absolutely no regret about it.

📍 Cades Cove, Great Smoky Mountains National Park
📸 all photos taken with a zoom lens
The locals know about this one, and now so do you. The locals know about this one, and now so do you.🐾💚

Little Long Pond. Carriage roads. No cars. Former Rockefeller estate that’s now yours to explore for free. And yes, your dog can swim.

12 minutes from Bar Harbor. Zero entrance fees. All the tail wags.

This is the kind of place you come back to every single trip. 🐾

Full dog-friendly Acadia guide on the blog - link in bio!

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#acadianationalpark #barharbormaine #hikingwithdogs #dogswhohike #acadiawithdogs
No one talks about this place near Acadia and hone No one talks about this place near Acadia and honestly I almost don’t want to share it 🤫

Little Long Pond is the most dog-friendly spot near Acadia and most visitors have no idea it exists. Your dogs can be OFF-LEASH here. October–April, anytime. May–September, before 10 AM and after 4 PM. (Ours remain leashed because huskies, ya know? 😂😆)

It’s a 2.2-mile loop around a pond on gorgeous Rockefeller-style carriage roads with four designated dog swimming spots and a boathouse straight out of a painting. It’s free, open year-round, and sits on 1,000 acres of the former Rockefeller estate.

What to know:
* 12 min from Bar Harbor off Route 3
* Only 32 parking spots - go early
* Dogs NOT allowed on Harbor Brook Trail

Go before everyone finds it! Keep in mind that there are horse drawn carriages that frequent Little Long Pond. 

🦞🤤 - After your hike do yourself a favor and stop by Northwest Harbor where @thebuckinglobster is parked and grab yourself a bahn mi lobster roll 🦞 truuust me, you won’t regret it! 

Full guide on our favorite Acadia dog friendly hikes on the blog - link in stories! 

✨ Save this for your next Acadia trip and send it to a dog parent who needs it.
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