Faces, Granite and Bison: A Private Day Through the Black Hills
A private, full-day road trip through carved monuments and open prairie—history, wildlife, and local stories in the Black Hills
You arrive before the heat of the day has settled into the needles of the pines, the Sprinter van's engine a low companion to the breath of the Black Hills. The road climbs, the trees open, and granite appears—massive and deliberate, a place where history was literally chiseled into stone. Mount Rushmore doesn't announce itself with fanfare. It waits, patient as the mountain, until your van rounds a bend and the presidents look up at you from their ledge of sky. For eight or nine hours with GeoFunTrek's family-run team, that moment is one of many, each framed differently: a close, quiet viewing platform; the long line of the Crazy Horse Memorial's shoulder, still under construction; a prairie road where bison push through the grass like living weather.
Trail Wisdom
Start Early
Beat the crowds and capture better light at Mount Rushmore by leaving Rapid City early; mornings are calmer and cooler.
Layers for the Black Hills
Weather can change quickly between parking lots and ridge-top viewpoints—pack a windproof layer and a warm midlayer.
Give Wildlife Space
In Custer State Park, bison can be unpredictable—stay in your vehicle when advised and keep at least 25 yards from large animals.
Bring Snacks and Water
This is a long full-day trip—carry a refillable water bottle and snacks to maintain energy between stops.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Needles Highway viewpoint pullouts for sculpted granite spires and sweeping valley views
- •The Crazy Horse Museum and cultural center offers Lakota perspectives and a quieter vantage than the main memorial plaza
Wildlife
Bison, Bighorn Sheep
Conservation Note
Custer State Park manages wildlife and habitat with controlled grazing and monitoring; visitors should stay on roads and designated trails to limit disturbance and pack out all trash.
Mount Rushmore was carved between 1927 and 1941 under sculptor Gutzon Borglum; Crazy Horse Memorial began in 1948 as a long-term, privately funded project emphasizing Lakota history.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Wildflower blooms, Lambing and calving season viewing, Cooler hikes
Challenges: Unpredictable weather, Possible road maintenance, Chilly mornings
Spring brings green hills and active wildlife; dress in layers and expect occasional late storms.
summer
Best for: Full facilities and visitor services, Long daylight hours, Stable road conditions
Challenges: Peak crowds, Higher temperatures, Limited parking at popular viewpoints
Summer is prime for accessibility and services but plan for crowds and midday heat; aim for early or late viewing.
fall
Best for: Crisp weather and softer light, Fewer tourists, Rich late-season colors
Challenges: Shorter daylight, Cooler mornings and evenings, Some seasonal closures beginning late fall
Fall offers ideal light for photography and thinner crowds—September is often the sweet spot.
winter
Best for: Snow-draped landscapes, Quiet visitor centers, Seasonal solitude
Challenges: Limited services, Icy roads and closures, Colder temperatures
Winter is dramatic but requires flexible planning; some park roads and facilities may be closed.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Layered JacketEssential
Windproof and insulating layer for variable Black Hills weather.
Sturdy Walking ShoesEssential
Support for short uneven walks on granite and boardwalks.
Refillable Water BottleEssential
Hydration for a long day; many stops have limited potable water access.
Telephoto or Zoom Lens
Helps capture details of the carved faces and compress distances for compelling compositions.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
The private tour runs roughly eight to nine hours (480–540 minutes), covering Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and Custer State Park with multiple stops.
Is this tour suitable for children and older adults?
Yes; the tour is family-friendly with short walks and vehicle access between sites. Children under 3 are free but need a car seat supplied by the family if required.
Does the tour include entrance or parking fees?
The tour price may not include park entrance or parking fees; the guide can advise on current fees and whether they are included—confirm at booking.
Will I see wildlife in Custer State Park?
Wildlife is common—bison, pronghorn, and bighorn sheep are frequent sights—but wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.
How many people are on a private tour?
This is a private tour exclusive to your group; vehicle capacity depends on the chosen vehicle (Sprinter van seats 9, larger options available by request).
Can the itinerary be customized?
Yes. Being private, the tour allows flexibility for photography stops, pacing, and time spent at each site, depending on group preferences.
What to Pack
Layered jacket (variable weather), refillable water bottle (long day, limited services), sturdy walking shoes (uneven granite and boardwalks), camera with zoom lens (capture monuments and wildlife)
Did You Know
Mount Rushmore was carved from 1927 to 1941 by sculptor Gutzon Borglum and his crew; the Crazy Horse Memorial has been under construction since 1948 and remains a privately funded, in-progress tribute to Lakota heritage.
Quick Travel Tips
Book early morning start times to avoid crowds; bring cash or card for park fees and donations; expect spotty cell service in parts of the Black Hills; check weather and road conditions before leaving Rapid City.
Local Flavor
After the tour, head back toward Rapid City or stop in Hill City for local flavor: try craft brews at Firehouse Brewing Co. in Rapid City or homemade pies in Hill City. For a taste of the region’s ranching heritage, look for bison burgers at local diners and visit small galleries showcasing Lakota art near the Crazy Horse cultural center.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP). Driving from Rapid City to Mount Rushmore: ~25–35 minutes. Cell service: generally available on major roads but spotty in remote park areas. Permits/fees: expect Mount Rushmore parking fees and Custer State Park vehicle entrance fees—verify current rates on official sites.
Sustainability Note
Respect wildlife by viewing from designated areas or your vehicle, pack out all trash, and stay on established roads and trails to protect fragile prairie and granite habitats in the Black Hills.