Mt Rushmore & Crazy Horse with Iron Mtn Rd, Needles & Sylvan Lake
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September 2026
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Who is going?
Adults
Age 13 and over
Children
Age 12 and under
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Free cancellation up to 24 hours before. Same price on Viator, Outty earns a commission.
Traveler rating
4.5/5
Based on 40 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Mt Rushmore & Crazy Horse with Iron Mtn Rd, Needles & Sylvan Lake worth booking?
Mt Rushmore & Crazy Horse with Iron Mtn Rd, Needles & Sylvan Lake is a 6-hour experience in Rapid City, United States, from $329 per person. It scores 64 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.5/5 rating across 40 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 64 / 100
- Rating
- 4.5/5 (40)
- Duration
- 6 hours
- From
- $329 per person
Note: No tour July 1-2-3-4 This Scenic Journey travels Iron Mountain Road: with tunnels engineered to frame Mount Rushmore in the distance. Experience the architectural marvel of corkscrew wooden pigtail bridges. We h
What you get
About this experience
Note: No tour July 1-2-3-4 This Scenic Journey travels Iron Mountain Road: with tunnels engineered to frame Mount Rushmore in the distance. Experience the architectural marvel of corkscrew wooden pigtail bridges. We have a photo stop at Sylvan Lake, the jewel of Custer State Park. At Washington's Profile we view the monument from a hidden highway vantage point. Mount Rushmore National Memorial Tour: you will learn the dramatic history, engineering feats, and politics of the carving. You will have time for self-exploration: Walk the Presidential Trail for up-close views of the faces. Watch the orientation film, browse historical exhibits, and shop for unique souvenirs. Crazy Horse Memorial and Indian Museum of North America: you will tour a massive collection of 14,000 historic Native American artifacts. Watch a compelling 20-minute movie about the Ziolkowski family's multi-generational mission. We return with a drive along Main Street of Hill City and share its history.
What's included
Included
- Bottled water
- Snacks
- All Fees and Taxes
Not included
- Gratuites are Not Included
What you'll see and do
Iron Mountain Road
Famous one way tunnels and pigtail bridges.
15 minutes here
Mount Rushmore National Memorial
Alive in Stone... these majestic figures of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln are surrounded by the beauty of the Black Hills. They tell the story of the birth, growth, development and preservation of this country. From the history of the first inhabitants to the diversity of America today, Mount Rushmore brings visitors face to face with the rich heritage we all share.
90 minutes here · Admission included
Mount Rushmore Profile View
On this tour we first stop at one of the lessor known views of Mt Rushmore . . . to the west of the main entrances is a small parking lot for a unique photo of George Washingtons Profile. This was never intened to be at attraction but has become one of his famous pictures.
10 minutes here
Needles Highway
We drive the famous Needles Highway to the beautiful Sylvan Lake.
20 minutes here · Admission included
Crazy Horse Memorial
The Crazy Horse Memorial is a mountain monument under construction on privately held land in the Black Hills. It depicts the Oglala Lakota warrior Crazy Horse, riding a horse and pointing to his tribal land. This will be the largest man made sculpture in the world. The museum has over 14,000 Native American pieces of art. In the summer there are Lakota dancers performing on the patio. This is a wonderful historic and cultural experience.
90 minutes here · Admission included
Hill City
In 1883, tin was discovered near Hill City, and the population exploded. The Harney Peak Tin Mining, Milling, and Manufacturing Company made its headquarters on Main Street. The company was backed by English financiers and bought 1,100 prospecting sites around the area. As mining grew, the city became known for its wild living and was once referred to as "a town with a church on each end and a mile of Hell in between." At one time, 15 saloons were located on Main Street. Today Hill City is know for its local artists, the dinosaur museum and wine tasting locations.
Pass by without stopping
Sylvan Lake
Rich in history and natural beauty, the lake is situated within a hillside forest of pine and spruce trees, in harmony with the rocky landscape.
10 minutes here · Admission included
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Rapid City
Located in front of the old Holy Terror Mine.
Hotel pickup
Pickup is available for selected locations. Pickup begins about 10 minutes before departure.
Ends at
Located in front of the old Holy Terror Mine.
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 14 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Black Hills Open-Top-Tours
Know before you go
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Handicap Van is available for wheelchair touring. Van has convertible top that slides open as needed and has large side windows. Contact us if you have special needs.
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 40 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
9 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
7 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Value for money
3 mentionsTravelers feel they got more than they paid for.
Photo opportunities
2 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Traveler reviews
40 verified traveler reviews for Mt Rushmore & Crazy Horse with Iron Mtn Rd, Needles & Sylvan Lake. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
ASK FOR GUIDE PAULA!!!!!
My 16 year old granddaughter and I took a road trip to Rapid City and signed up with Black Hills Open Top Tours. The owner Rich was very pleasant to work with and our driver/guide was THE BEST! She was so friendly, knew the area and was totally accomadating to our desires, needs and interests. I am handicap and use a walker which was no problem what so ever. She even pushed me:) My granddaughter wanted buffalo fur to bring back home and Paula made that happen too by calling her contacts. REQUEST PAULA.
Response from the operator: Hi - Thank you for your very kind review. I will make sure to share with Paula. She is an elementary teacher and loves working with kids. I'm glad you both enjoyed your tour. Be Well - Rich
via Tripadvisor
We loved the tour and our guide Paula!
Our guide was Paula. She was simply a delight to be with, very knowledgeable and pleasant. She has a wonderful personality, and a terrific sense of humor! The three of us were very pleased with the tour. It lasted almost 10 hours, and I believe it was very much worth every penny. I very much would recommend Black Hills Open top Tours to anyone looking for a sightseeing tour of any type. Alan P.
Response from the operator: Hi Alan - Thank you for taking time to review. Paula is a great guide and person, she's an elementary teacher off season and we are very lucky to have her on the team. I'm happy you enjoyed your tour with her. Be Well - Rich
via Tripadvisor
Exciting Day in South Dakota
Excellent experience! Our first time visit to South Dakota. Our guide was knowledgeable and personable. We learned so much in a fun way. Mount Rushmore is breathtaking, including Needles Hwy, and Sylvan lake is the way to good. Crazy Horse is inspiring. Our guide Cheryl is the best! Highly recommend this tour
Response from the operator: Hi Mary - I'm pleased you enjoyed your tour with Cheryl. The Bundle tour is one of our most popular tours. Not only does it include Mt Rushmore and Crazy Horse, we have included some added value sites like Iron Mtn Road and Sylvan Lake. Thank you very much for taking time to review. Be Well - Rich
via Viator
Awesome and Knowledgeable
Guide was very knowledgeable and was willing to answer all our questions. Great way to see Mt Rushmore and the night view and stars were quiet and beautiful
Response from the operator: Howdy Ruby - We have had great weather for star gazing this summer and it continues still. I'm glad you enjoyed your evening. Thank you fro the review. Be Well - Rich
via Viator
Halfway Excellent
I was a little torn about writing this review but I feel it must be done. I booked this tour mainly so that we would not have to drive out to Mount Rushmore and back after dark with the tunnel drive as an added bonus. The ride out to Mount Rushmore was very nice . The bus was very comfortable, and the driver shared some things along the way. It was awesome being dropped off right at the front entrance and we were given information on the monument and offered a short tour by the driver. As we had been out earlier in the day, we did not take advantage of that. The ceremony was beautiful and having the bus at the exit was perfect. That is where the five star portion of the trip ended. Sadly, the bus broke down as we were driving out of the monument area. The driver contacted the company and another bus was sent out. by the time it arrived, it was quite late, with no time to do the second portion of the trip. I understand that those were circumstances out of anyone’s control. However, I feel that some follow up from the owner with a formal apology and the offer of a partial refund was in order. With the excellent contact I had with Rich leading up to the tour, I truly expected that we would hear from him following this unfortunate turn of events. Because we were not able to do the second part of the trip, I cannot review that. I can say that the ride out was nice and comfortable and I likely would book again if we return to the area.
Response from the operator: Hi TravelIn- I'm sorry the vehicle broke down and your missing the rest of the evening show. I did refund partial payment to the people the next day. It would appear I missed you for some reason and I apologize. At this time I don't know who you are. This review name doesn't match any info I have. Since TripAdvisor doesn't let us post our web info or phone numbers. Please Google to find my info and contact me through my company. I'd be happy to provide you a partial refund. Thanks and Be Well - Rich
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 6 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $329 to $649
- Hotel pickup
- Available for selected locations
- Booked in 30 days
- 14
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Why this scores 64
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Mt Rushmore & Crazy Horse with Iron Mtn Rd, Needles & Sylvan Lake: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Rapid City.
How much does Mt Rushmore & Crazy Horse with Iron Mtn Rd, Needles & Sylvan Lake cost?
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Prices start at $329 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 Mt Rushmore & Crazy Horse with Iron Mtn Rd, Needles & Sylvan Lake take?
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Plan for about 6 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 Mt Rushmore & Crazy Horse with Iron Mtn Rd, Needles & Sylvan Lake worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 64 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.5/5 across 40 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 Mt Rushmore & Crazy Horse with Iron Mtn Rd, Needles & Sylvan Lake?
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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 Mt Rushmore & Crazy Horse with Iron Mtn Rd, Needles & Sylvan Lake suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 6-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Mt Rushmore & Crazy Horse with Iron Mtn Rd, Needles & Sylvan Lake?
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Around 14 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?
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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 6-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Mt Rushmore & Crazy Horse with Iron Mtn Rd, Needles & Sylvan Lake start and how do I get there?
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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?
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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?
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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?
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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?
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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.
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