From Rapid City: Mt Rushmore-Crazy Horse-CSP Wildlife Loop

If you’re considering a full-day trip around the Black Hills of South Dakota, this tour promises a chance to see some of the most famous sites in the region—all comfortably and with expert insights. It’s a popular choice for travelers who want a well-rounded overview without the hassle of planning each stop themselves.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines iconic sights like Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse with the chance to see North America’s wildlife in Custer State Park. Plus, the fact that it includes hotel pickups and drop-offs means you can relax without worrying about navigating unfamiliar roads. That said, it’s worth noting the tour’s duration (about 10 hours) and the fact that it’s not suited for wheelchair users, which could influence who might enjoy it most.

If you enjoy learning about American history, wildlife, and breathtaking scenery—all in one day—this trip could be a great fit. It’s especially ideal for those who appreciate small-group experiences, personalized guides, and a steady, comfortable pace.

Key Points

• Comprehensive experience: Combines Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and Custer State Park in one day.
• Expert guides: The reviews highlight knowledgeable, friendly guides who enhance the experience.
• Wildlife viewing: Expect to see bison, antelope, deer, prairie dogs, and more, especially in spring.
• Comfort and convenience: Hotel pickup, drop-off, and included admission fees take the stress out of planning.
• Price and value: At $291 per person, the tour offers a lot of sights and insights; reviews suggest it’s worth the cost.
• Limitations: Not suitable for wheelchair users; food and refreshments outside water are not included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Rapid City and the Ride to the Sights

Your day begins with a convenient pickup from your hotel in Rapid City, which is a huge plus for those who dislike navigating. The small group size (limited to 12 people) creates an intimate atmosphere, allowing for more personalized attention and questions. The ride itself is comfortable, with bottled water provided to keep you refreshed during the 10-hour journey.

First Stop: Mount Rushmore

As you arrive at Mount Rushmore, you’ll get to see it from different angles, including the Presidential Trail, which offers up-close views of the faces carved into the granite. The “Carved in Stone” 23-minute video is a nice introduction, explaining the history behind the monument, the sculptor Gutzon Borglum, and the workers behind the project.

A highlight for many is visiting the Lincoln Borglum Museum, where displays reveal more about the carving process, the machinery used, and Borglum’s vision. The Avenue of Flags, representing all 50 states and territories, adds a patriotic touch—perfect for snapping photos of the flags fluttering in the breeze.

A quick stop at the Carvers Café or an ice cream shop is included, where you can enjoy a treat, including Thomas Jefferson’s original vanilla ice cream recipe. Many reviews praise the guide’s storytelling, making history come alive.

Next Stop: Crazy Horse Memorial

Traveling to Crazy Horse, you’ll watch a 25-minute video explaining the ongoing carving project and the life of Korczak Ziolkowski, the man behind the sculpture. The museum showcases Native American artifacts, most donated, offering a genuine glimpse into the diverse tribes of North America. Walking through Ziolkowski’s workshop and his log home adds a personal touch, giving a sense of the craftsmanship involved.

One of the tour’s highlights is the opportunity to take a bus to the mountain’s base for a full view of Chief Crazy Horse’s face—an extra $5, but many find the view worth it. The site’s cultural center allows for a tactile experience—seeing and touching Native American crafts and artwork.

More Great Tours Nearby

Custer State Park and the Wildlife Loop Road

A drive through the historic town of Custer provides a sense of the area’s past, before heading into Custer State Park. The 18-mile Wildlife Loop Road is where this tour truly shines for nature lovers. During spring, expect to see around 1,300 bison—including calves—alongside pronghorn antelope, deer, prairie dogs, and even the occasional burro begging for snacks.

The scenery here is rugged and stunning, with rolling hills, open plains, and towering rock formations. The guide often points out wildlife and explains their habits, adding educational value to the scenic drive.

A stop at the State Game Lodge or Peter Norbeck Visitor Center for a bathroom break is included, giving you a moment to stretch and take in the views. Many reviewers mention how their guides expertly managed the timing and route, ensuring they saw the best wildlife spots.

Wrapping Up: Return to Rapid City

After exploring Custer State Park, the tour heads back towards Rapid City. The ride is smooth, with relaxed discussions about the day’s highlights and impressions. The trip is well-paced, allowing plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The real strength of this experience lies in the knowledge and friendliness of the guides. Multiple reviews highlight guides like Bruce, Nick, Flo, and others who share stories, history, and wildlife facts in an engaging way. Their expertise transforms a sightseeing trip into a memorable learning experience.

Another big plus is the balance of iconic landmarks and wildlife viewing. The scenery around Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse is striking in itself, but the chance to see bison and other animals in their natural habitat elevates the trip. Many visitors appreciated the opportunity to see wildlife in spring, with reports of calves and newborns adding to the magic.

The value for the price is generally seen as fair, considering the included admission fees, transportation, and guided commentary. The small group size and hotel pickup are often praised for making the day more relaxed and personalized.

Potential Downsides and Considerations

While most reviews are glowing, it’s worth noting that the tour isn’t accessible for wheelchair users, which could be a significant factor for some travelers. The 10-hour length might be long for those with limited stamina, especially on a busy travel day.

Food and beverages apart from water are not included, so you’ll want to bring some snacks or plan to purchase lunch at stops. Also, weather can impact the experience—cloudy or rainy days might obscure views and make walking around less comfortable.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided overview of South Dakota’s most famous sights in one day. If you’re interested in history, Native American culture, wildlife, and breathtaking scenery—and prefer not to worry about logistics—this experience hits the mark.

It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate small groups and expert guides, making the day more engaging and tailored. However, if you’re wheelchair-bound or prefer more flexible, self-paced exploration, you might want to consider other options.

Overall, it offers a well-rounded, scenic, and educational journey into the heart of the Black Hills—perfect for first-timers or those eager to see the highlights without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the tour involves several walking stops and a full day of activities, so it’s best suited for older children or teenagers who can handle the length and walking involved.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 10 hours, from hotel pickup to drop-off.

Are meals included?
No, only water is provided. You might want to bring snacks or plan to buy lunch during stops.

What is the group size?
Limited to 12 participants, making for a more personalized experience.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the ride is described as comfortable, with bottled water supplied for the journey.

Can I see the face of Crazy Horse close up?
Yes, for an additional $5, you can take a bus to the mountain’s base for a full view.

Are admission fees covered?
Yes, all park entrance fees are included in the tour price.

Is this tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water are recommended.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

If you’re craving a day filled with stunning sights, wildlife encounters, and engaging stories, this tour from Rapid City offers a solid way to experience South Dakota’s most famous landmarks without the stress of self-planning.

You can check availability for your dates here: