Explore South Dakota’s most famous landmarks on a private 8-hour tour from Rapid City. Visit Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, and Custer State Park with a personal guide and enjoy exclusive wildlife encounters and historical insights.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal walking required with plenty of breaks during the tour.
Wildlife
History
Mount Rushmore was sculpted between 1927 and 1941 to honor four U.S. presidents and has become a symbol of American heritage, while Crazy Horse Monument honors Native American leader Crazy Horse and ongoing cultural preservation efforts.
Conservation
Efforts in Custer State Park focus on protecting native wildlife habitats and promoting sustainable tourism to preserve the natural beauty of the Black Hills.
Black Hills Adventure Tours
Explore South Dakota’s most famous landmarks on a private 8-hour tour from Rapid City. Visit Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, and Custer State Park with a personal guide and enjoy exclusive wildlife encounters and historical insights.
Black Hills Adventure Tours operates out of Rapid City, South Dakota, offering private guided tours across the Black Hills and Badlands. The company specializes in customizable experiences for small groups, families, and travelers seeking outdoor adventures and cultural insight. Tours include hikes, scenic drives, kayaking and stand up paddle boarding, bicycle rides on the Mickelson Trail, and open-air jeep safaris in Custer State Park.
Many itineraries highlight regional landmarks such as Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, Sylvan Lake, Spearfish Canyon, Pactola Lake, and the Badlands National Park. The operator partners with local providers for specialized experiences, including Indigenous cultural programming through Tatanka Rez Tours. Private tours are timed to accommodate sunrise, midday, or sunset departures when available.
Meals, snacks, park fees, and equipment are included on select itineraries as described per trip, and guides provide local knowledge about geology, wildlife, and cultural history. Group sizes are kept intentionally small for a personalized experience and better access to hidden or less-crowded viewpoints. Transportation departs from Rapid City and can be arranged to meet guest needs.
Black Hills Adventure Tours emphasizes safety and local stewardship, following park regulations and guiding best practices. Reviews and features, such as being listed on The Adventure Collective, reflect a focus on guided, private exploration of Western South Dakota’s most iconic landscapes. Travelers interested in interpretive walks, active outdoor days, or culturally focused tours will find clear, bookable options tailored to varied interests and abilities. Bookings are typically arranged in advance to ensure availability and guide preparation.
Based In
Rapid City, SD
Gateway to the Black Hills
Tour Lengths
5.5–9 hrs
Half-day to full-day private tours
Private Tours
11 Experiences
Small-group, customizable trips
Top Destinations
Mt. Rushmore & Badlands
Iconic Black Hills landmarks
Reserve a guided tour from Rapid City today — check availability and secure a private guide.
Bring binoculars for wildlife spotting
Custer State Park is home to a variety of animals; binoculars will enhance your experience.
Wear sturdy walking shoes
Some areas around the monuments and park involve uneven terrain and short hikes.
Stay hydrated
Carry water especially during warm months to stay comfortable throughout the day.
Carry sunscreen and a hat
The Black Hills receive strong sun exposure, making sun protection important.
Comfortable walking shoes
Supportive shoes will keep you comfortable on uneven paths and around the monuments.
Sun protection (hat and sunscreen)
Protect your skin from UV rays, especially during sunny spring days.
spring
Binoculars
Great for spotting distant wildlife in Custer State Park.
summer
Layered clothing
Layering helps adjust to fluctuating temperatures throughout the day.
fall