Private Black Hills Tour — Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park & Crazy Horse
Spend a private day exploring Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park and the Crazy Horse Memorial with a local guide who customizes every stop. Expect dramatic granite scenery, close wildlife viewing on the park loop, and flexible access to back roads and viewpoints.
The Experience
Before You Go
Keep distance from wildlife
When parked near the Wildlife Loop, stay in the vehicle and maintain at least 25 yards from bison and other large animals; they can charge without warning.
Layer for changing temps
Granite ridges and shaded pines create microclimates; pack a lightweight insulating layer and wind shell even in summer.
Protect your photos and skin
Bring sunscreen and a lens hood — reflected light off rock and water can be intense during midday.
Plan for photography time
Ask your guide to schedule extended stops at Sylvan Lake or the Needles if you want golden hour light; these spots reward patience.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Hay Camp historical site near Rapid City for local lore and quick photo ops
- •A short Sylvan Lake loop to reach quieter viewpoints off the main tourist path
Wildlife
- •American bison
- •Prairie dogs
Conservation Note
Custer State Park balances recreation with wildlife management — stay on roads and trails, pack out trash, and give animals space to reduce stress and habitat disruption.
The Black Hills are geologically ancient and culturally significant, home to Lakota peoples and later Euro-American miners; Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse represent different public conversations about memory and monument-making.
Photographer's Notes
- • Mount Rushmore amphitheater viewpoint
- • Sylvan Lake shoreline
- • Needles Highway overlooks
What to Bring
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Comfortable shoes are useful for short hikes, rocky viewpoints, and uneven boardwalks.
Layered jacketEssential
A windproof, insulating layer helps in cool spring mornings and changing mountain conditions.
Sun protectionEssential
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat protect against strong sun reflected from granite and open grasslands.
Camera with zoom lens
A 70–200mm or similar telephoto helps capture wildlife and distant carvings without disturbing subjects.
Common Questions
How long is the tour and what does it include?
The private tour runs about 8–9 hours and includes private transportation, snacks, bottled water, and lunch; guide, entrance fees to listed attractions vary by choice.
Can the itinerary be customized?
Yes — the tour is private and the guide adapts the route and time at stops based on your interests and conditions that day.
Will we see bison and other wildlife?
You have a strong chance to see bison on Custer State Park's Wildlife Loop; sightings of pronghorn, prairie dogs, and various birds are common but never guaranteed.
Is the tour accessible in winter?
Some roads like Needles Highway and Iron Mountain may close in winter; the operator adjusts for closures and may use different routes or shorter itineraries.
Are entrance fees to Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse included?
Admissions may not be included by default; confirm at booking which monuments' entrance fees are covered or paid on-site.
What should families with young children know?
The tour is family-friendly and private, but children must remain seated during wildlife viewing; bring layers for kids and notify the operator of car seats if needed.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8–9 hours
Location
Rapid City, South Dakota
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; participants should be able to get in and out of vehicles and walk short paved or rocky sections.
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