Overview
Mount Rushmore Tours is the longest operating local family owned and operated tour company in the Black Hills. Started in 1973 and still under the same owner, we are widely regarded as the local experts in the bus tours for Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills.
- Recommended by 98% of travelers
- Badge of Excellence
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Mobile ticket
What's included
In-vehicle air conditioning
On-board restrooms
Driver / Guide Gratuity
Lunch
Breakfast
Dinner
Meeting and pickup
Travelers meet at the meeting point.
Meeting point
The tour starts at Fort Hays Chuckwagon with checkin from 7:50-8:00am. Checkin is 45 mins before the bus departure to give you enough time to explore Fort Hays. It is conveniently located on Hwy 16 just south of Rapid City on the road to Mount Rushmore. (Just 12 minutes from downtown Rapid City)
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
Good to know
Check in at the Head Quarters building at Fort Hays to pick up your tickets for the day.
What to expect
-
Mount Rushmore National Memorial
1 hour
The bus departs at 9am and heads for Mount Rushmore! You will have a little over an hour to look around at your own convenience and enjoy the sites and beauty that you came to South Dakota for. We stop here first because Mount Rushmore is at it's best in the morning sun. Gutzon Borglum carved this mountain facing east towards the morning sun and intended it to be viewed this way.
-
Iron Mountain Road
1 hour
After leaving Mount Rushmore we will travel along the Iron Mountain Road. A beautiful 17 mile road of breath taking scenery featuring 3 one lane tunnels that perfectly frame Mount Rushmore.
-
Custer State Park Resort
1 hour
We stop for lunch inside Custer State Park at the Game Lodge and previous summer White House for president Calvin Coolidge. Try the Buffalo Stew, it's the best you will ever find!
-
South Dakota 87
1 hour
After lunch we depart for the Needles Hwy. This 14 mile scenic drive is sure to leave you breathless and awe struck at amazing beauty of the Black Hills. Sit back and enjoy the ride and watch the crowd gather around when we drive the bus through the Needles Eye Tunnel. With only inches to spare on each side of the bus you can relish in the fact that you are not the one driving.
-
Sylvan Lake
20 min
Take a rest stop and coffee break at the beautiful Sylvan Lake. This is among the crown jewels of Custer State Park and the beauty within it.
-
Crazy Horse Memorial
1 hour
We spend about an hour at Crazy Horse Memorial. You are on your own to spend this time enjoying this piece of history in the making. Upon completion it will be the largest mountain carving in the world! Truly a piece of awe inspiring history being worked on every day.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
Times are local to the experience (America/Denver).
Additional Information
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Each booking must include at least one adult.
FAQs about Bus Tour of Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills
Can I cancel Bus Tour of Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills for free?
Yes. For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
How long does it take?
It takes about 9 hours.
Where does it start?
The tour starts at Fort Hays Chuckwagon with checkin from 7:50-8:00am. Checkin is 45 mins before the bus departure to give you enough time to explore Fort Hays.
What's included?
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- On-board restrooms
What's not included?
- Driver / Guide Gratuity
- Lunch
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Which places does it visit?
It visits Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Iron Mountain Road, Custer State Park Resort, South Dakota 87, Sylvan Lake, Crazy Horse Memorial.
Which languages is it offered in?
It is offered in English.
What fitness level is needed?
It is suitable for all physical fitness levels.
Is it suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Operated by Mount Rushmore Tours
