Black Hills Self Guided Driving Audio Tour
Pick your date
Highlighted days have spots open. Grey days are sold out or not running.
September 2026
Loading live availability
Who is going?
Adults
Age 13 and over
Children
Age 12 and under
Select a highlighted day to see live departure times and the exact price for your group.
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before. Same price on Viator, Outty earns a commission.
Traveler rating
4.4/5
Based on 22 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Black Hills Self Guided Driving Audio Tour worth booking?
Black Hills Self Guided Driving Audio Tour is a 2-hour experience in Rapid City, United States, from $20 per person. It scores 67 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.4/5 rating across 22 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 67 / 100
- Rating
- 4.4/5 (22)
- Duration
- 2 hours
- From
- $20 per person
Explore the Black Hills with this self-guided walking and driving tour, weaving through landmark sites steeped in monumental art and history. Walk through the majestic Mount Rushmore, delve into the natural splendor of C
What you get
About this experience
Explore the Black Hills with this self-guided walking and driving tour, weaving through landmark sites steeped in monumental art and history. Walk through the majestic Mount Rushmore, delve into the natural splendor of Custer State Park, experience the cultural resonance of Crazy Horse Memorial, and relax at the picturesque Sylvan Lake. Each location enriches your journey with its unique story and breathtaking vistas, creating memories that echo through the landscapes of South Dakota. Purchase one tour per car, not per person. Everyone listens together! After booking, check your email to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action, enter your unique password, and access your tour. These steps require good internet/Wi-Fi access. From there, follow the audio instructions and the route. New, Lifetime access, no expiry. Use it anytime, on any trip, as many times as you want.
What's included
Included
- Just bring your car and phone; the app guides your tour.
- Support is available via chat, email, or phone if you need help.
- Planning tools, route maps, scenic stops, and area previews included.
- Private tour experience for your family, in your own car.
- Lifetime access: use the tour anytime and keep it for future trips.
- Works offline with GPS route guidance and automatic audio stories.
- One purchase covers everyone in your car, not per person.
- Flexible tour: start, stop, and pause anytime during your trip.
- Self-guided audio tour through our easy-to-use mobile app.
- Hidden gems and local stories included along the route.
Not included
- Self-guided tour — no live guide. Entrance fees, parking, food, and car rental are separate.
What you'll see and do
Iron Mountain Road
This section of 16A is called Iron Mountain Road, which, together with the Needles Highway, encapsulates the spirit of Custer State Park. Note: The tour is over 66 miles long, with more than 65+ audio stories, and takes about 2-3 hours to complete. New, Lifetime access, no expiry. Use it anytime, on any trip, as many times as you want.
10 minutes here
Doane Robinson Tunnel
Next up is the second Pigtail Bridge, which is followed immediately by the first tunnel.
10 minutes here
Mount Rushmore National Memorial
After booking, check your email and follow the instructions to set up the tour while you have Wi-Fi/data. Do NOT wait until you are onsite. If you have my Mount Rushmore walking tour, you should exit this tour now and switch to that one. To access the Mount Rushmore tour, first tap Home in the top left corner of your screen. Then press Yes to exit this tour. Once you’ve exited, launch the Mount Rushmore tour. It will start near the Information Centre at the Entrance.
Pass by without stopping
Enjoy this last section of single lane roller coaster driving. As you wind through the forest here, you'll soon be cresting the ridge and leaving the Mount Rushmore area.
10 minutes here
The highpoint of the Iron Mountain Road at 5400 ft. There's a big parking lot here, and I recommend taking the time to get out of the car to walk to the overlook.
10 minutes here
Scovel Johnson Tunnel
The last tunnel on Iron Mountain Road is the Scovel Johnson Tunnel, named for the chief engineer and surveyor of the Black Hills Scenic drives.
10 minutes here
Custer State Park
You’re now driving through the heart of the Galena Fire from way back in 1988, one of largest wildfires in Custer State Park history.
Pass by without stopping
“Jewel Cave”, The third largest cave system in the world, is probably already on your radar if you're at all fascinated with the subterranean world now.
Pass by without stopping
The Gordon Stockade
In 1874, Lieutenant Colonel George Custer forever changed the fate of the Black Hills. In those days, the Black Hills belonged to the Sioux, as stated in the 1868 Treaty of Fort Laramie.
10 minutes here
If you want to visit cowboy poet Badger Clark's home, which will be on the left. You'll see a sign that says Badger's Hole.
Pass by without stopping
Theatre 605 Black Hills Playhouse
You'll soon see a turnoff for the Black Hills Playhouse, possibly the single most obscure locations for drama in the world! Plays are staged between June and mid-August, a tradition that has been going strong since 1946. Vehicle Restrictions on the Black Hills Loop Drive - Height restrictions apply along the Black Hills Loop Drive, as large RVs cannot fit through the tunnels on Needles Highway and Iron Mountain Road. If possible, drive a regular vehicle, or if towing, detach and leave your trailer behind. For full tunnel dimensions and detailed firsthand driving impressions, see The Narrow Tunnels of the Needles Highway.
Pass by without stopping
Sylvan Lake
Not too long from now, you'll be at Sylvan Lake. That marks the state park boundary. There are two particularly worthwhile places of interest here.
Pass by without stopping
You'll soon pass the historic Sylvan Lake Lodge on the right, although you'll not be able to see much through the trees.
Pass by without stopping
Crazy Horse Memorial
In just a few minutes, you're going to need to make a choice about whether you'd like to take the detour to the Crazy Horse Memorial, or continue following the tour loop around the Black Hills. Crazy horse is barely a ten minute drive from the junction.
Pass by without stopping
Hill City
The next few blocks are the town, and most things are pretty self-explanatory.
10 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Rapid City
Start at 13620 US-16, Rapid City, SD 57702. Head along US-16, with the Conoco gas station on your right. We're not affiliated with the gas station or nearby businesses, so please don't ask their staff. The tour starts automatically as you pass the starting point. Check email/text for “audio tour”.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
End point of the tour WGHW+X8G, Keystone, SD 57751, USA.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Travel with Action
Know before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Vehicle Restrictions on the Black Hills Loop Drive: Height restrictions apply along the Black Hills Loop Drive, as large RVs cannot fit through the tunnels on Needles Highway and Iron Mountain Road. If possible, drive a regular vehicle, or if towing, detach and leave your trailer behind.
- Easy to use: GPS-triggered audio plays automatically along the route for a hands-free experience.
- Private tour: Explore in your own vehicle without crowded buses or large tour groups.
- At your own pace: Start anytime and pause for hikes, picnics, photos, or scenic stops.
- Works offline: Once downloaded, the tour works using GPS without Wi-Fi or cellular service.
- Good value: One purchase covers everyone in your vehicle, not each person separately.
- More ways to save: Choose a single tour, a nearby bundle, or access to 200+ tours.
- Download in advance: Download the Tour Guide app by Action and tour while connected to Wi-Fi or a strong cellular signal.
- Follow the route: Begin at the suggested starting point or join anywhere along the route shown in the app.
- Lifetime access: Preview the tour before your trip and revisit the stories, photos, and details afterward.
- Supported devices: iPhone with iOS 15+, Android with version 9+, or a GPS-enabled iPad/tablet with cellular capability.
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 22 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
4 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Value for money
2 mentionsTravelers feel they got more than they paid for.
Traveler reviews
22 verified traveler reviews for Black Hills Self Guided Driving Audio Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Good info
Turn on your location so the app will work right. If you don’t go in order — the app will not work correctly if at all
Response from the operator: Lucy, thanks for using my Black Hills GPS tour. I’m glad you found it helpful and appreciate your tip to keep location services on for proper GPS. Following the route keeps stories and directions in sync. If exploring South Dakota more, try my Badlands National Park Self-Guided Tour for views and stories at your pace. Happy travels!
via Viator
I actually didn't lusten...
I actually didn't lusten to the entire audio only the part that included Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse. But, thst part was nice.
Response from the operator: Patricia, thank you for taking my Black Hills GPS driving audio tour. I’m glad you enjoyed the Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse part. Since my tours are valid forever, you can revisit the rest whenever you’re ready. If exploring South Dakota more, you’d enjoy my Badlands National Park Self-Guided Tour, full of views and stories at your own pace. Happy travels!
via Viator
The audio and the gps...
The audio and the gps feature was easy to follow, and we learned a lot of information we did not know prior to the tour.
Response from the operator: Jerre, thank you for taking my Black Hills GPS driving audio tour. I’m so glad the audio and GPS features were easy to follow and helped you learn new information along the way. If you’re exploring more of South Dakota, I think you’d really enjoy my Badlands National Park Self-Guided Tour—packed with epic views and stories, all at your own pace. Happy travels!
via Viator
Informative and very...
Informative and very accurate in keeping you on track as you navigate these twisting roads. Spectacular views and well worth the spend!
Response from the operator: Michael, thank you for taking my Black Hills GPS driving audio tour. I’m so glad the audio kept you on track through those twisting roads and helped you enjoy the spectacular views with plenty of helpful information along the way. If you’re exploring more of South Dakota, I think you’d really enjoy my Badlands National Park Self-Guided Tour—packed with epic views and stories, all at your own pace. Happy travels!
via Viator
Worth every penny
So easy to follow, stories were fantastic. We did the Mt. Rushmore, Custer national park and the black hills tour it was great
Response from the operator: Trisha, I’m so glad you enjoyed my Black Hills GPS Driving Audio Tour. It’s wonderful to hear the stories were fantastic and the tour was easy to follow. I’m especially happy you were able to experience Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, and the Black Hills together and had a great time exploring the area. If you’re exploring more of South Dakota, I think you’d really enjoy my Badlands National Park Self-Guided Tour—packed with epic views and stories, all at your own pace. Happy travels!
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 2 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 8
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Why this scores 67
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Black Hills Self Guided Driving Audio Tour: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Rapid City.
How much does Black Hills Self Guided Driving Audio Tour cost?
+
Prices start at $20 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Rapid City usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Black Hills Self Guided Driving Audio Tour take?
+
Plan for about 2 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Rapid City is not rushed.
Is Black Hills Self Guided Driving Audio Tour worth it?
+
It holds an Outty Ranking of 67 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.4/5 across 22 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Rapid City, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Black Hills Self Guided Driving Audio Tour?
+
Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Black Hills Self Guided Driving Audio Tour suitable for kids and families?
+
Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 2-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Black Hills Self Guided Driving Audio Tour?
+
Around 8 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Rapid City can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
+
Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Rapid City and add a light layer if any part of the 2-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Black Hills Self Guided Driving Audio Tour start and how do I get there?
+
The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Rapid City within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Rapid City?
+
Rapid City is the base for Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse tours, Badlands National Park loops, Custer State Park wildlife drives and Black Hills cave visits. On Outty we rank every Rapid City experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Mount Rushmore and Black Hills Tour with Two Meals and a Music Variety Show, Bus Tour of Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills, PREMIER PRIVATE Tour: Mt Rushmore, CrazyHorse & Custer State Park. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Rapid City?
+
May to September, with Sturgis crowding early August. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Rapid City?
+
Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
+
Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
Ready to lock in your spot?
Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Black Hills Self Guided Driving Audio Tour.
Pick your date
