Mount Rushmore's Top 4 Things to Do 

The faces of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln were carved into the stone over the course of 14 years. In 1941, Mount Rushmore was finished.  it is one of the most iconic landmarks in the United States. 

Here are the top 4 best activities you shouldn’t miss when visiting Mount Rushmore!

1. Presidential Loop

A short stroll along the Presidential Trail will provide close access to the sculpture. It takes 23 minutes on average to accomplish this  route, which is regarded as being moderately challenging.

It is 0.6 miles long, 422 stairs to get up close and personal with the mountain sculpture and perhaps glimpse some of the area wildlife.

2. Black Hills Biking

The Black Hills alone have approximately 6,000 miles of fire trails, logging roads, and abandoned railroad grades, so it’s no wonder that mountain biking is swiftly becoming one of the most well-liked activities in the Black Hills. Every level of rider will find something to like here. Looking for bike for rent? You can check our top amenities for rent. 

3. Junior Ranger Program for Kids

Almost all national park locations run activity-based programs to encourage kids to explore and learn about the parks in fun ways.  All ages of kids can join for FREE at Mount Rushmore!

Kids can earn Junior Ranger certificates and may purchase patches by completing the fun activities described in the park’s Junior Ranger booklet.

4. Interpretive Ranger-led Activities

No reservations are necessary for any of the Mount Rushmore presentations. You can have fun by participating in the Ranger Talks or Walks, which start at various points throughout the memorial.

Find out more information about the Lakota, Nakota, and Dakota Heritage Village. Explore the past of the Black Hills and the Native Americans who have lived in this region for thousands of years. 

The habits and traditions of the nearby Native American villages are highlighted in this region, which is situated along the first segment of the Presidential Trail.

FUN FACTS!

Before you travel to South Dakota on your next vacation, here are the fun facts you didn’t know about Mount Rushmore.

  • Charles E. Rushmore, a lawyer from New York City, is credited with giving Mount Rushmore its name. Rushmore visited South Dakota when he was still a young attorney to investigate and scout out newly discovered tin mines.
  • Gutzon Borglum, the sculptor chose the faces. He believed Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt, and Lincoln represented the birth, growth, development, and preservation (respectively) of America.
  • There were parts of the National Treasure movies that were true. There really is a hidden room behind Mount Rushmore! Located behind Lincoln’s head, there is an entrance to what would have been the Hall of Records.

 

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