Keystone, South Dakota: Rushmore Tramway Ultimate Pass – A Thrilling Family Adventure
If you’re looking to combine outdoor fun with a visit to the iconic Mount Rushmore, the Rushmore Tramway Ultimate Pass offers an exciting way to spend about five hours in the Black Hills. For $90 a person, this outdoor adventure package brings together ziplining, alpine slides, climbing challenges, and tubing, all set within a sprawling 100-acre park just 2 miles from Mount Rushmore itself.
What we particularly appreciate about this experience is how well it balances thrill and accessibility. Whether you’re a daring adrenaline junkie or just looking for a fun family outing, the variety of activities ensures there’s something for all. We also love how close it is to Mount Rushmore, making it a perfect addition to your sightseeing itinerary.
A potential consideration? Since all activities are outdoors and physically engaging, it’s best suited for those comfortable with some exertion and unpredictable weather. Also, pregnant women are advised to skip the more intense rides, so keep that in mind if traveling with expecting friends or family. This adventure is ideal for active families, groups of friends, or anyone wanting a memorable Black Hills experience beyond the usual scenic drives.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Proximity to Mount Rushmore: Just 2 miles away, making it a convenient extension of your sightseeing.
- Wide range of activities: Includes ziplining, alpine slides, climbing, tubing, and free-fall attractions for all thrill levels.
- Value-packed: The $90 pass covers several high-energy activities in a well-designed, safe outdoor setting.
- Duration: About five hours, perfect for a half-day adventure that won’t take up your entire day.
- Family friendly: Designed for all ages, with designated activities suitable for kids and adults.
- Weather dependent: As an outdoor park, weather can impact your experience, so plan accordingly.
An In-Depth Look at the Rushmore Tramway Ultimate Pass
Location and Accessibility
The Rushmore Tramway Adventures are conveniently positioned just 2 miles from Mount Rushmore, making it ideal for travelers who want to add a dose of outdoor adrenaline without straying far from their main sightseeing spots. The park covers 100 acres, giving plenty of room for sprawling activities and ensuring you’re never crowded.
Reaching the park is straightforward if you’re driving; there’s ample parking, and the entrance is well-marked. Since all the attractions are outdoors, you’ll likely want to consider transportation options ahead of time, especially if you’re coming from a nearby town.
What the Tour Includes
The Ultimate Pass offers a rich variety of activities, all included in the $90 ticket, making it an excellent value considering the number of adventures you get in one ticket:
- Aerial Adventure Park: A series of climbing challenges high in the trees, suitable for those who love a physical challenge and height.
- 800 ft. Zipline: One of the park’s crown jewels, this zipline offers a thrilling ride over the landscape with a true sense of flight.
- Jump Tower: For those who crave the sensation of free fall (sure to get your adrenaline pumping).
- Two Alpine Slide Rides: These wooden or concrete slides, accessed via a chairlift to the top, allow you to control your speed down winding tracks—fun for both kids and adults.
- Two Tubing Hill Rides: Perfect for a relaxed, fun descent, especially on a clear day.
- Soaring Eagle Zip Ride: An additional zipline experience that offers a different perspective and a different thrill.
Each activity is designed to provide excitement while maintaining safety standards. The activities are outdoors, so expect to be exposed to South Dakota’s variable weather—sun, wind, or even a quick summer shower.
More Great Tours NearbyWhat We Love About This Experience
First, the location is unbeatable. Being just a couple of miles from Mount Rushmore means you can combine this outdoor adventure with your sightseeing without losing much time or effort. The park’s size and diverse attractions mean you can switch from high-energy ziplining to a leisurely tubing ride without leaving the park.
Second, the design of the park itself impresses us. It’s the largest outdoor adventure park in the area, which translates into fewer crowds and more space to enjoy your chosen activities. The thrilling rides are well-designed, and the inclusion of activities like the chairlift ride to the top of the alpine slide makes the experience feel more substantial and immersive.
Possible Drawbacks or Considerations
While the park offers a fantastic variety of activities, some travelers might find the five-hour duration somewhat tight if they wish to savor each ride at a relaxed pace. Also, since all activities are outdoors, activities could be limited or less enjoyable during inclement weather.
Pregnant women are advised not to participate, especially in the more intense rides like free falls or racing ziplines, so if you’re traveling with expecting friends or family, this is worth considering.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is best suited for families with kids, teenagers craving adventure, and groups of friends looking for a day of fun and adrenaline. It’s also ideal for those who want to combine outdoor activities with sightseeing in the Black Hills region, especially given its close proximity to Mount Rushmore.
Additional Details and Practical Tips
What to Bring
- Comfortable shoes are essential for climbing, walking, and riding the chairlift.
- Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are recommended to protect against South Dakota’s sunny days.
- Bring extra clothes or gloves if you plan to do multiple rides or need to layer up.
- Food and drinks are not included, so plan to purchase on-site or bring snacks.
Booking and Cancellation
The park offers flexible booking options—reserve now and pay later, which is handy if your plans might shift. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, adding peace of mind for travelers with uncertain schedules.
Language and Guides
All instructions and safety briefings are provided in English. The activity is guided by experienced staff, ensuring safety and proper use of equipment, which boosts confidence for first-timers or those nervous about heights.
Final Thoughts: Is the Rushmore Tramway Ultimate Pass Worth It?
For those looking to inject some adrenaline and outdoor fun into their Black Hills visit, this pass offers tremendous value. The variety of activities keeps boredom at bay, and the proximity to Mount Rushmore makes it a natural extension of your sightseeing. It’s especially appealing for active families or groups who want to experience something memorable and a little different from the usual scenic drive or museum visit.
While it’s not suited for travelers seeking a quiet, contemplative experience or those with mobility restrictions, it does deliver high-energy excitement and a sense of accomplishment. The park’s safe, well-designed layout and the inclusion of so many activities for one price make it a standout choice for a half-day adventure.
If you’re craving outdoor thrills close to one of the country’s most famous monuments, the Rushmore Tramway Ultimate Pass should be high on your list.
FAQ
Is this experience suitable for young children? Yes, the park is family-friendly, with activities designed to accommodate children as well as adults. However, some activities like free falls may not be suitable for very young kids.
How long does each activity take? The entire experience lasts about five hours, which should allow enough time for multiple rides and activities without feeling rushed.
Do I need to bring my own safety gear? No, all safety equipment is provided on-site, and staff will give instructions for each activity.
Can I participate in all activities at once? The activities are designed to be enjoyed in sequence or as fits your pace during the five-hour window. The park’s layout encourages a flexible approach.
Is the park accessible for people with mobility challenges? Since all attractions are outdoors and involve climbing or sliding, it’s best suited for those who are able to walk and stand comfortably. Pregnant women are advised not to participate in the more intense rides.
Should I expect crowds? The park is quite expansive, so even on busy days, it doesn’t tend to feel crowded. Booking in advance can help secure your preferred times.
What is the weather policy? Since all activities are outdoors, inclement weather may impact your plans. It’s advisable to check the forecast before your visit and be prepared for changing conditions.
To sum it up, the Rushmore Tramway Ultimate Pass offers a well-rounded, energetic, and memorable way to experience the Black Hills beyond just sightseeing. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting to add some adventure to their trip, especially if you’re in the vicinity of Mount Rushmore and looking for something active, fun, and uniquely South Dakotan.
You can check availability for your dates here: