This is the most popular tour of the Black Hills and for good reason. You get to see so much in one day! It's a full-day tour packed with information on the history, culture, wildlife, and geography of the region.
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
At Your Accommodations.
- We provide a private pickup from your accommodations within Rapid City. A guide will arrive 10 minutes prior to the tour start time in a GMC Yukon, Chevy Tahoe or Ford Transit Passenger Van with the company Logo on the side.
Mount Rushmore National Memorial
As we ascend the Black Hills you'll soon see Mount Rushmore come into view. Once we arrive, we'll take an easy walk through the Avenue of the Flags, then on to the Grand Terrace. I'll spend time here talking about the history of Mt. Rushmore, the men and women who made it possible, and other lesser-known facts that you won't be able to find on other tours.
Iron Mountain Road
This road was designed to highlight Mount Rushmore and give you the best vistas in South Dakota. Made to enjoy, we'll meander our way up, and then down the mountain enjoying the wildlife and scenery all around us.
Custer State Park Visitor Center
Here, you'll have a place to stop and relax. An excellent movie has been created for your enjoyment about Custer State Park. While you watch the movie, lunch will be set up and ready for you when you leave the building. Perfect timing on a day that's just beginning!
Wildlife Loop Road
The best part of Custer State Park happens on this road. Keep your eyes out for Elk, Pronghorn, Prairie Dogs, Bighorn Sheep, and the great American Bison. 1500 Bison occupy the park, so we may get up close and personal, but from the safety of our vehicle.
Needles Highway/Cathedral Spires
It was said this road was impossible to build and for good reason. As we make our way to the top, you'll see rock formations that look out of this world, gnarly pines, beautiful flowers, birds, mountain goats, and the ultimate vistas. At the top, we go through the Needles Eye Tunnel and stop for some great pictures. A visit to the inspiration of Mount Rushmore, the Cathedral Spires is on the itinerary as well as Sylvan Lake, the most beautiful lake in all the Black Hills.
Crazy Horse Memorial
A visit to the Black Hills wouldn't be the same without Crazy Horse Memorial. I'll tell you about the man, why he is admired by so many, and the maker of the largest sculpture in the world. As we get closure, this colossus comes into view. Admission into the museum is included, along with time to enjoy another great movie, view artifacts, learn about the school and visit the gift shop. There might even be a Native American outside teaching art or music. It's a great place to visit, and one you'll never forget.
Sylvan Lake
One of the most beautiful lakes in the Black Hills! Sylvan Lake is always a great surprise to guests with its glass-like surface pierced with ancient rock, making it a favorite backdrop for weddings or special events. This is Americana at its best. Swimming, canoeing and paddle boarding can be enjoyed by the public as we stroll along the lake edge. A stop at the newly renovated General Store for drinks, snacks and maybe a gift item to take home is encouraged.
Ending Point
Return to your Accommodations
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Entrance Fees, Air Conditioned Vehicle, Snacks, Bottled Water
Gratuities for the guide.
A few things about this tour. We'll have a fantastic time but there are some things you'll need to bring. While there isn't any strenuous hiking, there is uneven ground and potentially slippery surfaces. Hiking shoes or boots with good grip, and preferably ankle support are needed. You'll thank us later. We can stop at just about anywhere to take photos, and I'm happy to take care of that for you, so everyone can be included in the picture. I love what I do, and am always learning something new each time I guide. Your questions are welcomed and appreciated. If you can stump me on a question related to the Black Hills, there might be a prize in it for you!
I can adjust your pickup time to be earlier or later, it's completely up to you. This is your time and for your enjoyment!
Hello, I’ve been guiding for the last 12 years through Europe, South America, the US and Caribbean. I truly love guiding, studying the regions I work in and diving into the local culture. Travel is in my blood and it’s been a privilege to be a guide, travel company owner and friend to many of my clients.
$779/ per group