The Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center at Mount Rushmore is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM from November 1 to May 22, and from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM from May 23 to August 9. From August 10 to September 30, it’s open from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM. It’s closed on December 25th.
There is no entrance fee to visit Mount Rushmore National Memorial.
From Rapid City, take Interstate 90 to Highway 16, then follow to Keystone and Highway 244, leading you to an iconic tribute to American history amidst the Black Hills’ majestic landscape.
Mount Rushmore National Memorial has limited parking for larger vehicles like RVs and trailers. Cars and motorcycles park easily, but RVs over 26 feet may struggle. No overnight parking; arrive early during peak season. No parking fees.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Mount Rushmore National Memorial, situated in the majestic Black Hills of southwestern South Dakota, is a testament to American history and natural beauty. This colossal sculpture, featuring the 60-foot faces of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln, is carved into the granite face of Mount Rushmore, which stands at an elevation of 5,725 feet. The memorial, spanning 2 square miles, is surrounded by dense forests, pristine streams, and a diverse array of wildlife including mountain goats, mule deer, chipmunks, and yellow-bellied marmots.
As you walk beneath the waving flags of 56 U.S. states and territories on the Avenue of Flags, the grandeur of the sculpture comes into full view. Hike the Presidential Trail or meander through the wilderness to gain unique perspectives of the monument. The Sculptor’s Studio and Lincoln Borglum Museum offer insights into the creation of this national treasure.
Seasonal events enhance the experience: from May to September, an evening ceremony in the outdoor amphitheater highlights the monument’s history with a video, flag-lowering ceremony, and lighting of the memorial. Ranger Talks, held daily during the summer months, provide deeper understanding of the site. Xanterra Travel Collection operates retail and restaurant facilities, ensuring a memorable visit. Whether you’re here to bask in American history or immerse yourself in the natural splendor of the Black Hills, Mount Rushmore National Memorial is an unforgettable destination.
- Area (mi²)
- 2
- Annual visitors
- 2 430 000
- Established year
- 1927
Top 3 Facts about Mount Rushmore National Memorial
The construction of the monument involved removing 410,000 tons of rock, with 90% blasted from the mountainside and the remaining 10% removed by hand by stonemasons using precision tools, resulting in zero work-related deaths over 14 years.
In the heart of the Black Hills, a diverse ecosystem thrives. Ponderosa pines, bur oaks, and Black Hills spruce trees dominate the lower elevations, while higher grounds see sparse but resilient plant life. The area is home to bighorn sheep, elk, mule deer, and American bison. Eagles, including bald and golden varieties, soar overhead, while brook trout and longnose dace inhabit the streams. Smaller creatures like raccoons, badgers, and porcupines add to the rich tapestry of wildlife, making this a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
Carved into fine-grained Harney Peak Granite, this monumental site is set amidst mountains formed from ancient Paleoproterozoic rocks, with the granite core cooling approximately 8 miles below the earth’s surface around 1.7 billion years ago. The rugged landscape is punctuated by hard quartzite knife ridges and mica schist, a testament to intense heat and pressure that metamorphosed the original sediments. The area’s unique geology is highlighted by white streaks of pegmatite dikes visible on the sculptures, adding a natural aesthetic to this man-made marvel.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Self-guided Tours
- Virtual Junior Activities
- Scavenger Hunts
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Visit in May or September for fewer crowds. Plan a 3-4 day trip to explore trails and sights. Arrive early, wear comfortable shoes, and pack snacks. Enjoy the evening lighting ceremony during your visit.[-5]
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for variable weather, sturdy hiking shoes, and a first aid kit. For camping, bring a waterproof tent, sleeping bag, and headlamp. Check the season for specific gear needs.
Respect Wildlife
Observe wildlife from a distance, never feed or approach. Stay 25 yards from most animals, 100 yards from predators. Respect their habitat.
Stay Informed
Stay on marked trails, avoid ledges and fast-moving water. Check weather and fire alerts. For emergencies, call 911 or park rangers at 605-574-3178.
Seasons
Visit in late February to early April for a serene experience with mild temperatures (30s-50s°F) and fewer crowds. Enjoy the Presidential Trail hike and vibrant wildflowers. Avoid mountain goats and bundle up for cooler mornings. Ideal for a peaceful, outdoor adventure.
Summer brings warm temperatures (70s-80s°F) and clear skies, ideal for hiking, biking, and ranger-led activities. Witness the Evening Lighting Ceremony from Memorial Day to September 30, and celebrate Independence Day with flyovers, music, and monument lighting on July 3-4. A must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.
Visit in fall for mild temperatures (50s-70s°F) and vibrant colors. Late September to early October, enjoy the LED light illuminations at night, a perfect backdrop for the season’s serene beauty. fewer crowds, low rainfall. Ideal for photography and a tranquil experience.
Experience winter’s serene beauty from December to February, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 40°F. Snow storms are fleeting, and Chinook winds can bring surprise warmth. A unique, tranquil time to visit, ideal for those seeking a peaceful, snow-kissed landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Mount Rushmore National Memorial has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to Mount Rushmore is Keystone, South Dakota, which is only 2 miles away. Rapid City, a larger city, is also nearby, located 23 miles to the northeast.
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Dogs are allowed in certain areas, such as parking garages, the main pergola, pet exercise areas, and outside the developed areas, but they must be on a leash no longer than six feet. Only service dogs are permitted in all public areas. Non-service dogs are not allowed beyond these designated areas due to safety and crowd concerns.
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It costs $10 per vehicle to park, regardless of whether it’s a car, motorcycle, or RV. This fee is valid for the entire calendar year from the date of purchase. Commercial buses are $50 each, and educational buses are $25 each.
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Mount Rushmore was completed on October 31, 1941. The project was led by Gutzon Borglum until his death on March 6, 1941, when his son Lincoln Borglum took over to see the project to its completion.