If you’re heading to South Dakota and want to add a dash of adventure to your visit to Mt. Rushmore, this Pinnacle Zipline Tour might just be what you’re looking for. We’ve read a lot of reviews and details about this experience, and it sounds like a mix of thrill and incredible scenery rolled into a compact two-hour package.
What really caught our eye is that it’s the only zipline in the world that offers views of Mt. Rushmore, giving you a chance to see the iconic faces from a totally new angle. Plus, most participants seem to rave about the professional guides and the stunning landscape. On the flip side, it’s not for everyone—particularly those who are pregnant or have mobility restrictions—since it involves heights and some physical activity. This is a fantastic option for those craving a memorable outdoor adventure, especially if you enjoy zipping through the air with a view.
Key Points
- Unique View: The only zipline offering sights of Mt. Rushmore from the air.
- Scenic Location: The Black Hills backdrop makes the experience visually spectacular.
- Short & Sweet: At just two hours, it’s a manageable addition to your sightseeing day.
- Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides, with a focus on safety and fun.
- Family-Friendly: While not for very young children, it suits most adventurous travelers.
- Value for Price: The $140 fee covers five ziplines, a chairlift ride, and guided safety.
What to Expect from the Pinnacle Zipline Tour
This guided tour packs quite a punch in just two hours. Most visitors drive to the venue, and from there, the experience kicks off with a chairlift ride to the top of the summit—an integral part of the adventure that offers its own scenic payoff. Once at the top, you’ll be ready to take on five side-by-side ziplines, with three of them offering stunning views of Mt. Rushmore.
You’ll reach speeds of up to 40 miles per hour and find yourself soaring as high as 400 feet above the ground at times. The thrill is real, and the combination of speed and altitude makes this a memorable adrenaline rush. The guides, often praised for their professionalism and caring attitude, walk you through the safety procedures before the fun begins, which helps set your mind at ease.
Many reviews emphasize the stunning landscape that surrounds you—not just the faces carved into the mountain but also the sweeping views of the Black Hills. Breathtaking doesn’t do the scenery justice. The landscape’s rugged beauty is a perfect backdrop for such an adventure, making it a highlight that sticks with you long after the zipping ends.
The Itinerary & Details
The tour begins with a straightforward check-in process at the waiver tent and sales window. Once signed in, you’ll get fitted with a harness, helmet, and zip trolley—guides ensure everything fits comfortably. The chairlift ride to the summit is a relaxed way to start, giving you a chance to take in the views and get excited for the ziplines ahead.
The actual ziplining involves five rides, with most participants mentioning how much fun they had flying side by side with friends or family. The guides are attentive, engaging, and informative, making sure everyone knows what to do and feels safe. This approach is consistently praised, with reviewers like Ryan from Canada noting that the guides “made us feel safe and entertained.”
The speed and height of the ziplines are often highlighted as the tour’s thrilling core. Several reviews describe the experience as “a blast,” with one traveler mentioning how guides Shane and David were “awesome” and made the trip memorable. The combination of speed, scenic views, and the feeling of flight creates an adrenaline-pumping yet safe environment for adventure seekers.
What’s Included & What to Bring
The tour package covers everything you need for a safe and fun ride: chairlift ride, five zipline rides, guides, and harness/helmet/zip trolley. This makes it pretty straightforward—most of what you need is provided.
However, there’s a bit of advice on what to bring: a water bottle and sunscreen are recommended, especially if you’re visiting during warmer months. The tour is about two hours long, usually offered in both morning and afternoon slots, so plan accordingly.
It’s important to note that hats, alcohol, and drugs are not allowed, and a liability waiver is mandatory, which is standard for adventure activities. The tour is limited to a small group of up to 10 participants, ensuring a more personalized and less crowded experience.
Considerations & Who This Tour Is For
While this zipline experience is a hit among thrill-seekers and those wanting a different perspective of Mount Rushmore, it’s not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users. The heights, the physical demands (like wearing a harness), and the need for quick movement on the ziplines mean it’s best for those in good health who are comfortable with heights.
Reviewers often mention how safe they felt thanks to the guides, but if you have any doubts about heights or are prone to motion sickness, this might not be your best pick. The cost of $140 per person is reasonable given the exclusivity—it’s a unique experience that combines fantastic scenery with adrenaline.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Authentic Feedback
Multiple reviews highlight the guides’ professionalism and friendliness, with comments like “great customer service” and “fun and caring guides.” Ryan from Canada calls it “a truly unique experience,” and others mention how they left talking more about the thrill than the mountain scenery itself, which speaks volumes about the excitement level.
One traveler from the Netherlands simply said, “super goed,” which translates to “super good,” and is a nice reminder that the tour appeals to international visitors as well. The consistency in high ratings—five out of five from all reviews—indicates that most find this tour delivers on its promises.
Final Thoughts
If you’re someone who loves a mix of scenic beauty and adrenaline rushes, the Pinnacle Zipline Tour offers a rare chance to see Mt. Rushmore from the air. The combination of speed, altitude, and breathtaking views makes for a memorable experience. It’s well-suited for adventure-loving travelers who are comfortable with heights and physical activity, but not ideal for those with mobility restrictions or pregnant women.
While it’s a short experience—just two hours—it packs enough thrill and visual impact to be worth the expense. Plus, the small group size and attentive guides ensure you feel safe and cared for throughout.
For anyone visiting Keystone or the Black Hills who wants a break from traditional sightseeing and craves something a little more exciting, this zipline adventure will likely be a highlight of your trip.
Keystone, SD: Pinnacle Zipline Tour by Mt. Rushmore
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
While it’s not explicitly labeled as a family activity, most reviews mention it as being perfect for the family. However, it’s best for older children or teens comfortable with heights and physical activity.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 2 hours, including the chairlift ride and all five ziplines.
Do I need to bring anything?
Yes, it’s recommended to bring a water bottle and sunscreen. Closed-toe shoes are required. Hats, alcohol, and drugs are not permitted.
What is included in the price?
The fee covers the chairlift ride, five zipline rides, guides, and all necessary safety gear like harnesses and helmets.
Is the tour safe?
Yes, the guides are experienced and professional, and safety procedures are explained beforehand. Many reviews emphasize how safe they felt during the activity.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you some flexibility if your plans shift.
Are there any restrictions?
Pregnant women and wheelchair users are not suitable for this experience. Also, a liability waiver is required before participating.
If you’re after a unique way to see Mt. Rushmore and enjoy a thrilling outdoor activity, this zipline tour seems like a fantastic choice. It balances adventure with beautiful scenery and has a reputation for friendly, professional guides. Just make sure it fits your comfort level with heights, and you’re set for an exciting day.
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