Private Tour Mt Rushmore Crazy Horse and Custer State Park

Experience the Black Hills with a Private Tour of Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and Custer State Park

If you’re craving a personalized adventure through South Dakota’s most iconic landmarks, this private tour offers a comprehensive look at the Black Hills area. Priced at around $1,735 per person, it’s a significant investment but one that promises a tailored, hassle-free day exploring Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and Custer State Park. The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, including hotel pickup and drop-off, so you can relax and enjoy the sights without worrying about driving or logistics.

What we love about this experience is the customized nature—it’s just your group, led by a knowledgeable guide, which means more flexibility and personal attention. Plus, the itinerary includes some of the most photogenic spots in the region: from the grandeur of Mount Rushmore to the developing sculpture of Crazy Horse, and the wild beauty of Custer State Park.

A possible consideration is that admission fees to the attractions are not included, so you’ll need to budget for those separately. Also, given the full-day schedule, it’s best suited for those comfortable with a long day on the road. If you appreciate private, guided experiences that respect your pace and interests, this tour is a fine choice—especially if you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more intimate look at these national treasures.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a personalized, in-depth exploration of South Dakota’s highlights, with the comfort of private transportation and the guidance of local experts.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience tailored exclusively for your group
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off for maximum convenience
• A comprehensive itinerary covering Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, Custer State Park, and scenic drives
• Cost reflects a premium, but includes private transportation and expert guiding
• Admission fees are not included, so plan to budget separately
• Ideal for travelers wanting an intimate, flexible tour with plenty of iconic sights

A Detailed Look at the Private Black Hills Tour

When we think about exploring the Black Hills, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer number of sights and the distances between them. This private tour simplifies that by offering a carefully curated itinerary, led by a local guide who knows the area well. It’s designed to give you a deep, yet manageable, experience of some of South Dakota’s most famous landmarks.

Starting Point: Rapid City and Scenic Drive

The adventure begins with hotel pickup in Rapid City. We appreciated how this removes any stress; there’s no need to rent a car or figure out directions. Instead, you board a modern, air-conditioned vehicle, ready for a comfortable 60-minute drive through the scenic surroundings of Rapid City. This initial leg sets the tone: relaxed, private, and focused on enjoying the landscape.

Visiting Mount Rushmore

The first major stop is Mount Rushmore National Memorial, undoubtedly the most famous sculpture in the United States. Carved into Granite mountains, the four presidential faces—Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt, and Lincoln—are each approximately 60 feet high. There’s a visitor center and museum with interactive exhibits, providing context about the sculptures’ history and construction.

While admission to Mount Rushmore isn’t included, the site’s spectacle and history make it worth the visit. You’ll love the views, especially if you’re a fan of patriotic symbols or monumental art. Be prepared for crowds, though—you’re visiting a popular spot, but your guide can help you navigate the best viewpoints.

The Monument Under Construction: Crazy Horse

Next, the tour visits the Crazy Horse Memorial, a work in progress dedicated to the Oglala Lakota warrior. This massive mountain sculpture aims to depict Crazy Horse on horseback, pointing to his tribal land. Unlike Mount Rushmore, it’s still under construction, giving a sense of ongoing American history and culture.

Tourists often find Crazy Horse compelling because of its ambition and cultural significance. It’s located on privately held land, which means the project relies on private funding and donations, giving a different vibe from the national monument. Expect around an hour here, with opportunities to learn more at the visitor center.

Exploring Custer State Park

The next section involves two hours exploring Custer State Park, South Dakota’s first and largest state park. We loved the opportunity to witness Black Hills wildlife in their natural habitat. The park offers scenic drives and numerous spots to see bison, pronghorn, deer, and other animals.

A key highlight is the Wildlife Loop Road, an 18-mile drive through open grasslands and pine forests. Keep your camera ready; wildlife sightings here are frequent, and the landscape is both rugged and beautiful. The park also features Sylvan Lake, a serene spot perfect for a quick break, picnicking, or even a short walk. The area’s natural beauty makes it an ideal spot for relaxation and photography.

Scenic Drives and Iconic Routes

The tour continues with a scenic drive along South Dakota Highway 87, a picturesque route through the Black Hills. Then, you’ll traverse Iron Mountain Road, a famous route designed to showcase the landscape and offer views of Mount Rushmore from unique angles.

The combination of these drives offers a sense of the region’s rugged terrain and scenic diversity. We enjoyed the twist and turns of Iron Mountain Road—not only is it a visual delight, but it’s also a fun way to experience the landscape without the hassle of navigating ourselves.

Free Time and Return

After a full day of sightseeing, the guide will drop you off at a convenient location in Rapid City with around an hour of free time. This allows you to explore on your own, perhaps grab a bite or do some souvenir shopping. The tour concludes with a comfortable ride back to your hotel, giving you time to reflect on the day’s highlights.

What Travelers Say and Why It Matters

While the tour doesn’t have formal reviews listed, the description underscores many practical benefits. The private nature means you avoid crowded buses and schedules that don’t suit your pace. The local guide’s knowledge probably enriches the experience, providing context and stories you wouldn’t get from a self-guided visit.

The length of the tour (about 10 hours) is substantial but manageable, especially since it includes hotel pickup and drop-off. We think this is ideal for travelers who want an in-depth experience without the hassle of planning each detail themselves.

The cost might seem high, but when you consider it covers private transportation, personalized guiding, and a full day of iconic sights, it offers good value for those seeking convenience and customization. However, since admission fees are not included, you should budget for those separately, which can add to the overall expense.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This is a good fit for travelers who value personalized service and prefer to avoid crowded group tours. It’s suitable for those with a full day available and who want to see the Black Hills with minimal hassle. If you’re interested in cultural landmarks, wildlife, and scenic drives, this tour hits all those marks. It also works well for those who enjoy comfortable transportation and a flexible schedule.

Final Thoughts

This private tour offers a robust, flexible way to experience some of South Dakota’s most famous sights. It combines beautiful scenery, cultural landmarks, and wildlife, all led by an expert guide who can tailor the experience to your interests. While it’s an investment, the convenience, comfort, and exclusivity make it an excellent choice for travelers wanting a personalized, memorable day in the Black Hills.

If you’re someone who appreciates detail and context and prefers to travel at your own pace, this tour will serve you well. Its emphasis on quality over quantity makes for an engaging, enriching experience—one that can become a highlight of your trip.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
You’ll get private, air-conditioned transportation, hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional local guide, and about an hour of free time. Admission fees to the attractions are not included.

How long does the tour last?
The total experience runs approximately 10 hours, including travel time and sightseeing.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, the itinerary is tailored to your group’s interests. You can spend more time at certain stops if you wish, within the scheduled framework.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but there will be opportunities for you to purchase food during the day, especially during free time in Rapid City.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the full-day schedule. Make sure everyone is comfortable with a long day on the road.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, water, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes. Since some stops involve walking and outdoor exploration, wear suitable footwear.

To sum it up, this private tour offers a well-rounded, comfortable way to experience some of South Dakota’s most remarkable sights without the stress of planning or navigating alone. It’s perfect for those who want a personal touch, meaningful insights, and the freedom to enjoy each location at their own pace.