Mount Rushmore Tours: Complete Guide & Booking Info 2026
Your complete guide to the best Mount Rushmore tour experiences
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Mount Rushmore tours offer visitors the perfect way to experience America's most iconic monument. Whether you prefer a guided tour with expert narration or a self-guided adventure at your own pace, there are Mount Rushmore tour options to fit every traveler's style and budget. Located in the heart of the Black Hills of South Dakota, Mount Rushmore National Memorial draws nearly 3 million visitors annually who come to witness the 60-foot granite faces of Presidents Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt, and Lincoln carved into the mountainside.
Taking a Mount Rushmore tour enhances your visit by providing historical context, insider knowledge, and convenient logistics that make the experience more meaningful. From half-day guided excursions departing from Rapid City to full-day adventures combining multiple Black Hills attractions, there's a tour to match every interest. This complete guide covers everything you need to know about Mount Rushmore tours, including the best guided options, self-guided tips, combination tours, booking information, and expert recommendations to help you plan the perfect visit.
Whether you're a history enthusiast eager to learn about the 14-year construction project led by sculptor Gutzon Borglum, a photographer seeking the best angles and lighting, or a family looking for an educational adventure, the right Mount Rushmore tour will transform your visit from a simple photo stop into an unforgettable experience. Read on to discover the best Mount Rushmore tours available and find the perfect option for your Black Hills adventure.
Why Take a Mount Rushmore Tour?
While Mount Rushmore can certainly be enjoyed independently, taking a guided tour offers numerous advantages that enhance the overall experience. Here's why many visitors choose guided Mount Rushmore tours over self-guided visits:
Benefits of Guided Tours
- Expert Knowledge: Professional guides share fascinating stories about the carving process, the four presidents, and little-known facts that bring the monument to life.
- Convenient Transportation: Guided tours include hotel pickup and drop-off, eliminating the need for a rental car and navigating unfamiliar mountain roads.
- Comprehensive Experience: Many tours combine Mount Rushmore with other attractions like Crazy Horse Memorial or Custer State Park, maximizing your sightseeing.
- Best Timing: Experienced guides know the optimal times to visit for the best lighting and smallest crowds.
- Scenic Routes: Tours often include scenic drives like Iron Mountain Road with its famous pigtail bridges and tunnel views framing the monument.
Benefits of Self-Guided Tours
- Complete Flexibility: Explore at your own pace, spending as much or as little time as you want at each area.
- Budget-Friendly: Only pay the $10 parking fee, making it one of the most affordable national monuments to visit.
- Personal Schedule: Visit during early morning or stay for the evening lighting ceremony without being tied to a tour schedule.
- Freedom to Explore: Take detours to nearby attractions or extend your visit based on your interests.
Types of Mount Rushmore Tours
Mount Rushmore tours come in various formats to accommodate different preferences, schedules, and budgets. Understanding the available options helps you choose the tour that best fits your travel style.
Guided vs. Self-Guided
Guided tours include professional narration, transportation, and curated experiences. Self-guided tours offer independence with free audio guides available at the visitor center.
Half-Day vs. Full-Day
Half-day tours (4-5 hours) focus on Mount Rushmore with scenic drives. Full-day tours (8-10 hours) combine multiple attractions for comprehensive Black Hills coverage.
Group vs. Private
Group tours offer affordability and social experiences. Private tours provide personalized itineraries, flexibility, and exclusive attention from your guide.
Combination Tours
Multi-attraction tours bundle Mount Rushmore with Crazy Horse, Custer State Park, Deadwood, or Badlands for comprehensive sightseeing and better value.
Best Guided Tours to Mount Rushmore
Below are the top-rated guided Mount Rushmore tours, carefully selected based on customer reviews, tour quality, and overall value. Each tour offers a unique way to experience the monument and surrounding Black Hills region.
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Mount Rushmore & Black Hills Day Tour
The most comprehensive Mount Rushmore tour experience, including scenic drives on Iron Mountain Road, stops at Crazy Horse Memorial, and wildlife viewing in Custer State Park. Expert guides share the history and significance of each location while you enjoy stunning Black Hills scenery.
- Hotel pickup & drop-off included
- All entrance fees included
- Bottled water provided
Mount Rushmore Sunrise Photography Tour
Capture Mount Rushmore in the magical golden light of sunrise with this exclusive early morning photography tour. Professional photographer guides help you get the best shots while avoiding crowds. Perfect for photography enthusiasts seeking stunning images.
- Best lighting for photography
- Professional photographer guide
- Avoid crowds entirely
Mount Rushmore Evening Lighting Ceremony Tour
Experience the emotional evening lighting ceremony when Mount Rushmore is dramatically illuminated against the night sky. This tour includes dinner in Keystone, a ranger-led program, and the unforgettable moment when the monument lights up while the national anthem plays.
- Dinner included in Keystone
- Reserved seating for ceremony
- Seasonal May-September
Family Adventure Mount Rushmore Tour
Designed specifically for families with children, this engaging tour brings history to life with interactive activities, scavenger hunts, and age-appropriate storytelling. Includes stops at Bear Country USA for wildlife viewing and ice cream in Hill City.
- Junior Ranger program assistance
- Kid-friendly snacks included
- Activity booklets provided
Private VIP Mount Rushmore Experience
The ultimate Mount Rushmore tour experience with a private guide, luxury vehicle, and fully customizable itinerary. Visit Mount Rushmore, plus choose from Crazy Horse, Deadwood, Badlands, or other attractions based on your interests. Includes gourmet lunch at a local restaurant.
- Fully customizable itinerary
- Luxury vehicle transportation
- Gourmet lunch included
Mount Rushmore Express Half-Day Tour
Perfect for visitors with limited time, this efficient half-day tour covers Mount Rushmore essentials including the visitor center, Presidential Trail, and scenic viewpoints. Morning and afternoon departures available, leaving time for other activities.
- Morning or afternoon options
- Parking fee included
- Time-efficient experience
Self-Guided Mount Rushmore Tours
For independent travelers, a self-guided Mount Rushmore tour offers complete flexibility and significant cost savings. Mount Rushmore is easy to visit on your own, with excellent facilities and free audio guides available to enhance your experience. Here's everything you need to know for planning your self-guided visit.
How to Plan Your Self-Guided Visit
Mount Rushmore National Memorial is open daily year-round, with the Information Center operating from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (extended hours in summer). There is no entrance fee to view the memorial, only a $10 parking fee valid for one year. The parking structure is well-marked and easily accessible from Highway 244.
What to See and Do
- Grand View Terrace: The main viewing area offering iconic straight-on views of all four presidents.
- Presidential Trail: A 0.6-mile boardwalk trail bringing you closer to the carvings with interpretive displays.
- Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center: Museum with exhibits on the carving process, sculptor's tools, and historical artifacts.
- Sculptor's Studio: Original studio with scale models and demonstrations (seasonal).
- Avenue of Flags: Walkway displaying flags of all 56 U.S. states and territories.
Best Time to Visit (Avoiding Crowds)
For the smallest crowds, visit early morning (before 9:00 AM) or late afternoon (after 4:00 PM). The best lighting for photography is typically morning when the sun illuminates the faces directly. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, and spring/fall offer pleasant weather with fewer visitors than peak summer months. Avoid the first week of August during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally when the region sees its highest visitor numbers.
Audio Guide Options
Free audio tours are available through the NPS app or at the Information Center. The audio tour provides 30+ minutes of narration about the memorial's history, the four presidents, and the carving process. Available in multiple languages including English, Spanish, German, and Mandarin.
For more detailed visitor information, check our comprehensive Mount Rushmore Guide with everything you need for planning your visit.
Mount Rushmore Combination Tours
Combination tours offer exceptional value by bundling Mount Rushmore with other premier Black Hills attractions. These full-day tours maximize your sightseeing while providing convenient transportation between destinations spread across the region.
Mount Rushmore + Crazy Horse Memorial
Compare two monumental sculptures: the completed Mount Rushmore and the world's largest mountain carving in progress at Crazy Horse Memorial. Tours include the Indian Museum of North America and often a Native American cultural presentation.
Mount Rushmore + Custer State Park Safari
Combine iconic Mount Rushmore with the wildlife and scenery of Custer State Park. Drive the Wildlife Loop Road to see free-roaming bison, pronghorn, and wild burros. Includes Needles Highway with its dramatic granite spires.
Mount Rushmore + Historic Deadwood
Experience American icons and Wild West history. After Mount Rushmore, explore historic Deadwood where Wild Bill Hickok was shot and gold rush legends came to life. Walk historic Main Street and visit museums.
Mount Rushmore + Badlands National Park
A full day covering two of South Dakota's most spectacular sites. Visit Mount Rushmore in the morning, then journey to Badlands National Park for dramatic rock formations, fossils, and prairie wildlife. An unforgettable landscape contrast.
Ultimate Black Hills Full-Day Tour
The most comprehensive Black Hills tour covering Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, Custer State Park Wildlife Loop, and Iron Mountain Road with its famous tunnels framing the presidents. Includes all entrance fees and lunch. The best way to see everything in one day.
How to Book Mount Rushmore Tours
Booking your Mount Rushmore tour is straightforward, with several reputable platforms offering verified tours with customer protection. Here's what you need to know to secure your spot.
Where to Book
The most popular booking platforms for Mount Rushmore tours include GetYourGuide, Viator, and TripAdvisor Experiences. These platforms offer verified reviews, secure payment processing, and flexible cancellation policies. Some local tour operators also offer direct booking through their websites, which may provide slightly lower prices but typically with less flexible cancellation terms.
When to Book
For peak summer season (June through August), book Mount Rushmore tours at least 1-2 weeks in advance, and earlier for private or specialty tours. Popular tours can sell out, especially during holiday weekends and the Sturgis Rally period. For spring and fall visits, booking 3-5 days ahead is usually sufficient. Last-minute bookings may be available for less popular dates, but selection will be limited.
What to Look For When Booking
- Verified Reviews: Look for tours with numerous recent reviews (50+ ideally) and ratings above 4.5 stars.
- Clear Inclusions: Confirm what's included (transportation, entrance fees, meals, etc.) to avoid surprises.
- Group Size: Smaller groups (under 15) typically offer better experiences and more guide interaction.
- Cancellation Policy: Look for free cancellation up to 24-48 hours before the tour date.
Group Discounts
Many tour operators offer discounts for groups of 6 or more. If traveling with a larger party, contact tour companies directly to inquire about group rates or consider booking a private tour, which may be more cost-effective for groups of 6-8 people when split among participants.
Private vs. Group Tours
Group tours are more affordable and provide opportunities to meet fellow travelers. Private tours cost more but offer personalized itineraries, flexible schedules, and exclusive guide attention. For families with young children or travelers with specific interests or mobility needs, private tours often provide a superior experience.
Ready to Book Your Mount Rushmore Tour?
Browse our selection of top-rated Mount Rushmore tours and secure your spot today. Free cancellation available on most tours.
View All Available ToursMount Rushmore Tour Tips & Recommendations
Make the most of your Mount Rushmore tour with these insider tips and recommendations gathered from local guides and frequent visitors.
Best Time of Day to Visit
Morning tours (departing 7-9 AM) offer the best lighting for photographs and smallest crowds. The sun illuminates the presidents' faces directly in the morning hours. Evening tours provide a completely different experience with the dramatic lighting ceremony (May-September), when the memorial is illuminated against the darkening sky.
Best Time of Year to Visit
Late May through early June and September offer the ideal combination of pleasant weather, manageable crowds, and all facilities operating. Summer (July-August) has the longest days and warmest weather but also the largest crowds. Spring and fall provide beautiful scenery with changing colors. Winter visits offer solitude and snow-dusted views but some facilities have reduced hours.
What to Bring
- Camera with zoom lens for close-up shots
- Comfortable walking shoes for the Presidential Trail
- Layers – mountain temperatures can vary 20+ degrees
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Water bottle (refilling stations available)
- Binoculars for detailed viewing
Photography Tips
The best photos are taken from the Grand View Terrace in morning light. For unique angles, walk the Presidential Trail for closer views from different perspectives. Telephoto lenses (200mm+) capture facial details beautifully. For the lighting ceremony, bring a tripod or stabilized camera for night shots. Consider booking a photography-focused tour if capturing great images is a priority.
Accessibility Information
Mount Rushmore is wheelchair accessible with paved paths to viewing areas. The Grand View Terrace and visitor center are fully accessible. The Presidential Trail has stairs but an accessible route is available for the first portion. Accessible parking is available, and wheelchairs can be borrowed at the Information Center. When booking guided tours, inform the operator of any mobility needs so they can ensure appropriate accommodations.
Family-Friendly Recommendations
Families with children should consider morning tours when kids are most energetic and crowds are smaller. The Junior Ranger program at the visitor center engages children ages 5-12 with activities and a badge upon completion. Tours that include wildlife viewing at Custer State Park or Bear Country USA are particularly popular with families. Pack snacks and allow time for ice cream in Keystone before or after your tour.
Senior-Friendly Recommendations
Half-day tours offer comprehensive experiences without exhausting full-day schedules. Tours with air-conditioned vehicles provide comfort during summer months. The Presidential Trail involves 422 stairs, so seniors should consider viewing from the accessible terrace areas. Private tours allow for customized pacing and rest stops. The evening lighting ceremony involves minimal walking and offers a memorable experience for all ages.
What to Expect on a Mount Rushmore Tour
Understanding what happens on a typical Mount Rushmore tour helps you prepare and know what to expect. Here's a walkthrough of a standard guided tour experience.
Typical Tour Itinerary
Most tours begin with hotel pickup in Rapid City between 7:00-9:00 AM (or 3:00-4:00 PM for evening tours). The drive to Mount Rushmore takes approximately 30-45 minutes, during which guides provide historical background and point out scenic highlights. Full-day tours may take scenic routes like Iron Mountain Road with its famous pigtail bridges and tunnels framing Mount Rushmore.
At Mount Rushmore
Upon arrival, your guide leads you through the Avenue of Flags to the Grand View Terrace for your first view of the monument. Most tours allow 1.5-2 hours at Mount Rushmore, including time for the visitor center museum, walking the Presidential Trail (if desired), and the Sculptor's Studio. Your guide explains the history of each president depicted and the remarkable 14-year carving process led by sculptor Gutzon Borglum.
Visitor Center Experience
The Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center houses an excellent museum with artifacts, tools, and historical photographs documenting Mount Rushmore's construction. A 14-minute film provides deeper context. Guides often meet groups here to share additional stories not covered on general tours. The visitor center also has a bookstore and gift shop.
Presidential Trail
The 0.6-mile Presidential Trail brings you closer to the carvings with interpretive panels explaining each president's significance. The trail descends via boardwalk and stairs (422 steps round trip) through ponderosa pine forest, offering unique viewing angles. Allow 30-45 minutes for the complete trail. Not all tours include time for the full trail – confirm with your operator if this is important to you.
Duration Expectations
Half-day tours typically allow 1.5-2 hours at Mount Rushmore. Full-day tours may spend 2-3 hours, especially if including the Presidential Trail. Evening tours time the visit to coincide with the lighting ceremony, which begins at dusk and lasts approximately 45 minutes including the ranger program.
How Long Do Mount Rushmore Tours Take?
The time needed for your Mount Rushmore visit depends on your tour type and how thoroughly you want to explore. Here's what to expect for different tour formats.
Self-Guided Visit
2-3 hours
Includes viewing terrace, visitor center museum, Presidential Trail walk, and gift shop browsing.
Half-Day Guided Tour
4-5 hours
Includes transportation, guide narration, 1.5-2 hours at the memorial, and scenic drive.
Full-Day Guided Tour
8-10 hours
Covers Mount Rushmore plus 1-2 additional attractions with lunch break included.
Evening Lighting Tour
5-6 hours
Late afternoon departure, dinner stop, monument visit, and evening lighting ceremony.
Time Needed for Different Activities
- Viewing Terrace & Photos: 20-30 minutes
- Visitor Center Museum: 30-45 minutes
- Presidential Trail: 30-45 minutes
- Sculptor's Studio: 15-20 minutes
- Gift Shop: 15-30 minutes
- Ranger Program: 15-30 minutes
- Lighting Ceremony: 45 minutes
Mount Rushmore Tour Costs & Pricing
Mount Rushmore tour prices vary based on tour type, duration, inclusions, and group size. Here's what you can expect to pay for different tour options.
Tour Pricing Overview
| Tour Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Self-Guided (parking only) | $10 |
| Half-Day Group Tour | $70-$100 |
| Full-Day Group Tour | $130-$180 |
| Evening Lighting Tour | $100-$150 |
| Private Half-Day Tour | $250-$350 |
| Private Full-Day Tour | $400-$600 |
What's Included in Tour Prices
Most guided tour prices include round-trip transportation from Rapid City hotels, professional guide narration, parking fees at Mount Rushmore, and entrance fees to any additional attractions on the itinerary. Some tours include lunch, snacks, or bottled water. Premium tours may include meals at local restaurants and special experiences.
Additional Costs to Consider
- Meals: $10-25 per person if not included in tour
- Souvenirs: Gift shop items range from $5-$100+
- Gratuities: 15-20% tip for guides is customary
- Photos: Professional photos available for purchase
Budget-Friendly Options
For budget-conscious travelers, self-guided visits offer the best value at just $10 for parking. Half-day group tours provide a good balance of value and guided experience. Booking through platforms offering "best price guarantees" can save money. Visiting during shoulder seasons (May, September-October) often yields lower tour prices.
Attractions Near Mount Rushmore
Mount Rushmore sits at the heart of the Black Hills, surrounded by numerous other attractions perfect for combination tours or additional exploration. Here are the top nearby destinations:
Crazy Horse Memorial
17 miles from Mount Rushmore
The world's largest mountain sculpture in progress, honoring the Lakota leader and Native American heritage.
Custer State Park
30 miles from Mount Rushmore
71,000 acres of stunning scenery, free-roaming bison herds, and scenic drives including Needles Highway.
Historic Deadwood
40 miles from Mount Rushmore
Wild West history, gaming, and the final resting place of Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane.
Wind Cave National Park
35 miles from Mount Rushmore
One of the world's longest caves featuring rare boxwork formations, plus prairie wildlife above ground.
Jewel Cave National Monument
50 miles from Mount Rushmore
The third longest cave in the world with stunning calcite crystals and diverse cave formations.
Badlands National Park
75 miles from Mount Rushmore
Dramatic eroded buttes, pinnacles, and spires with rich fossil beds and prairie wildlife.
For a complete overview of Black Hills activities and attractions, visit our Things to Do in Black Hills guide.
Where to Stay for Mount Rushmore Tours
Choosing the right base for your Mount Rushmore tour depends on your itinerary, budget, and preferences. Here are the best areas to stay:
Rapid City
Rapid City (25-30 miles from Mount Rushmore) is the largest city in the Black Hills with the widest selection of hotels, restaurants, and amenities. Most guided tours depart from Rapid City hotels, making it the most convenient base. The city offers everything from budget motels to upscale hotels and has excellent dining options.
Keystone
Just 3 miles from Mount Rushmore, Keystone offers the closest lodging to the memorial. This small tourist town has numerous hotels, cabin rentals, and restaurants. Staying here is ideal for visitors wanting to attend the evening lighting ceremony without a long drive back to their hotel.
Hill City
This charming artists' town sits 13 miles from Mount Rushmore and offers a quieter, more authentic Black Hills atmosphere. Hill City has excellent restaurants, local galleries, and the 1880 Train. It's well-positioned for exploring both Mount Rushmore and southern Black Hills attractions.
Custer
Located 23 miles from Mount Rushmore, Custer is the gateway to Custer State Park. It's an excellent choice for visitors planning to combine Mount Rushmore tours with extensive wildlife viewing and outdoor activities in the state park.
For detailed hotel recommendations and booking information, see our comprehensive Rapid City Hotels Guide and Hotels Near Mount Rushmore page.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mount Rushmore Tours
What are the best Mount Rushmore tours?
The best Mount Rushmore tours include guided day tours from Rapid City, combination tours with Crazy Horse Memorial and Custer State Park, and private photography tours. Popular options include half-day morning tours, full-day Black Hills adventures, and sunset/evening lighting ceremony tours. The best choice depends on your interests, time available, and budget.
How long does a Mount Rushmore tour take?
Self-guided visits typically take 2-3 hours. Half-day guided tours last 4-5 hours, while full-day tours combining multiple attractions run 8-10 hours. The time needed depends on whether you walk the Presidential Trail, visit the museum, and attend ranger programs.
Do I need to book tours in advance?
Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak summer season (June-August) and around major holidays. Popular tours can sell out days or weeks in advance. Booking 1-2 weeks ahead is advisable for summer visits.
What's the difference between guided and self-guided tours?
Guided tours include transportation, expert narration, and often multiple attractions in one trip. Self-guided tours offer flexibility to explore at your own pace, are more budget-friendly ($10 parking fee only), and let you spend as much time as you want at the memorial.
Are Mount Rushmore tours worth it?
Yes, guided tours are worth it for first-time visitors who want expert commentary on the history and construction of Mount Rushmore, convenient transportation, and the opportunity to visit multiple attractions in one day. They're especially valuable if you don't have a rental car or prefer not to drive mountain roads.
Can I visit Mount Rushmore without a tour?
Absolutely. Mount Rushmore is easy to visit independently. There is no entrance fee (only a $10 parking fee), and the memorial is open year-round. Self-guided visits allow complete flexibility to explore at your own pace, with free audio guides available.
What's included in Mount Rushmore tours?
Most guided tours include round-trip transportation from Rapid City hotels, professional guide narration, parking fees, and photo stops. Some tours include lunch, visits to additional attractions like Crazy Horse Memorial, and special experiences like sunset ceremonies.
Are there combination tours available?
Yes, many tours combine Mount Rushmore with nearby attractions including Crazy Horse Memorial, Custer State Park, Deadwood, Badlands National Park, and scenic drives like Needles Highway. Full-day combination tours offer excellent value and a comprehensive Black Hills experience.
Book Your Mount Rushmore Tour Today
From guided adventures with expert narration to flexible self-guided explorations, there's a perfect Mount Rushmore tour waiting for you. Start planning your unforgettable Black Hills experience today.