Experience the Winter Magic of Mount Rushmore: A Guided Tour Through the Black Hills
Difficulty
easy
Duration
5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal walking with easy terrain around viewing points.
Overview
Explore Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills like never before on this five-hour winter sightseeing tour. Enjoy stunning snowy landscapes, wildlife spotting, and expert insights from local guides.
Winter Mount Rushmore Sightseeing Tour
5 Hours • October - May
Select participants and date
About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating 5-hour Winter Mount Rushmore Sightseeing Tour, starting with a cowboy breakfast at Fort Hays. Journey through the stunning Black Hills, visiting iconic sites like Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial, while enjoying wildlife photo opportunities and expert insights from your guide. A memorable adventure awaits!
Winter Mount Rushmore Sightseeing Tour
Duration
5 hours
About
Our sightseeing tour carves its way through the Black Hills beginning at Fort Hays, Dances with Wolves Film Set for a cowboy breakfast. Departing mid-morning, the tour winds its way along scenic highways visiting attractions like Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Custer State Park and Crazy Horse Memorial. Our informative tour guide drives you through 100 miles of the Black Hills National Forest stopping for pictures of wildlife and more. Returning to Fort Hays the tour ends but you’re welcome to purchase tickets for our famous Chuckwagon Supper and Live Music Show at the door!
Itinerary
Departs daily mid-October through mid-May
8:45- 9:00 AM – Board the van at Fort Hays Dances With Wolves Film Set
Mount Rushmore National Memorial
We’ll spend at least an hour visiting Mount Rushmore. There is plenty of time to see all the park has to offer including the sculptors studio & the Lincoln Borglum Museum.
Crazy Horse Memorial
Staying for at least 1 hour we’ll visit the largest mountain carving in the world. You can visit the memorial & museums and learn much about the sculptor Korzak Ziolkowski in his home studio museum.
Return to Fort Hays Chuckwagon: 2:00pm
Adventure Tips
Dress in layers for a winter day
Temperatures in the Black Hills can swing widely; wear moisture-wicking base layers and insulated outerwear.
Bring a camera with a zoom lens
Capture the monumental faces of Mount Rushmore and wildlife from a distance without disturbing them.
Stay hydrated
Even in cold weather, the dry mountain air can dehydrate you quickly; carry water on hand.
Watch for icy patches
Paths around the memorial and stops can be slippery; wear traction devices on boots if possible.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Mule deer
- Wild turkeys
History
Mount Rushmore was completed in 1941 and represents four U.S. presidents; the Black Hills have deep sacred significance to Native American tribes.
Conservation
Efforts focus on minimizing impact during tours through maintaining trail integrity and educating visitors about local wildlife protection.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Rapid City
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Layered clothing
Keeps you warm and allows flexibility to adjust to changing temperatures.
winter specific
Sturdy waterproof boots
Provides traction and warmth on snowy or icy trails.
winter specific
Camera with zoom lens
Helps capture the distant landmarks and wildlife without crowd disruption.
Insulated water bottle
Keeps your water from freezing and ensures hydration in cold weather.
winter specific