Twilight Tour: Custer State Park & Mt Rushmore Lighting Ceremony
Active
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Experience the stunning beauty of the Black Hills on this unforgettable private afternoon & evening tour, designed to highlight the region’s most scenic drives & end with the Mt Rushmore Lighting Ceremony.
First, we visit the tranquil Sylvan Lake, nestled among pine-covered hills & dramatic rock formations.
We continue with a picturesque journey along the legendary Needles Hwy, where towering granite spires, narrow tunnels, & sweeping views create an unforgettable drive. You’ll have plenty of time for photo stops, short walks, and commentary from your knowledgeable local guide.
Then, travel the engineering marvel of Iron Mt Rd, known for its pigtail bridges, scenic switchbacks, & tunnels that perfectly frame Mt Rushmore in the distance.
We arrive at Mt Rushmore with time to explore, then as night falls, gather at the amphitheater for the Lighting Ceremony—a patriotic & heartfelt experience that includes a short film, tribute to veterans, & the illumination of the iconic carvings.
Available options
Summer 2019
Pickup included
What's included
Bottled water
Entrance fee
Snacks
Hotel pickup and drop-off (selected hotels only)
Local expert guide
Detailed itinerary
1
A lovely drive out west of Rapid City takes us into the Black Hills National Forest and into Custer State Park.
Drive time ~45min - 1hr.
Visit Sylvan Lake and Drive Needles Hwy
See the jewels of the Black Hills in Custer State Park!
Sylvan Lake glitters at 6,145 feet. Time here for photos and a quick wander.
We then move onto Needles Hwy. Gorgeous rock formation frame this famous drive as we learn of the geological history and the importance of the Native American History of the area.
Plenty of opportunities to stop and take in this stunning natural wonder.
2
Of course we will stop along the route to photograph and enjoy the incredible formations - Needles Eye being the most famous!
3
We make our way along the Norbeck Scenic Byway, with lots of stops for photographs.
See Rushmore as it lies in its natural landscape - gorgeous Norbeck overlook is a prize along the cenic Byway. Our first views of Mt Rushmore from about a mile away are a great precursor to the monument itself!
4
Stop 4
The fun part! Our travel from Norbeck Overlook is the amazing Pigtail bridges and famous tunnels of Iron Mountain Road. This scenic road was built for fun to compliment Mt Rushmore - an engineering marvel and an enjoyable way to get your closer to the 4 faces!
5
Stop 5
Next we are on to the monument. Your guide is an expert in all things Rushmore, and will be able to share all they can about the history and building of the carving.
We have time for guests to wander through museums, take the presidential trail and visit gift stores. Get a bite to eat from the Carvers Cafe.
Planned arrival ~ 6-6:30pm (for 8pm lighting ceremony) 7-730pm for 9pm lighting ceremony.
- Lighting Ceremony -
Join a park ranger in the park's outdoor amphitheater for an inspirational 45-minute program focusing on the presidents, patriotism and the nation's history. Beginning with a ranger talk, this program continues with the film "Freedom: America's Lasting Legacy" (captioned) and culminates with the lighting of the memorial.
What's not included
Gratuities
Hotel Pick up and drop off IF OUTSIDE OF RAPID CITY
Personal expenses
Meals
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
3 reviews
5★
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Tripadvisor
5.0
35 reviews
5★
35
4★
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Please meet out the front of the lobby
Important notes
Thank you for booking your Southern Black Hills Parks and Monuments Tour. We are looking forward to taking you out!
Please feel free to contact us at any point with questions. If you have any food requirements for lunch please let us know. If you will be staying outside of Rapid City and would like pick up, please give us a call so we can arrange pick up time (this may incur an additional fee depending on your location).
Look forward to meeting you soon!
About Rapid City
Rapid City is the second-largest city in South Dakota, known as the gateway to Mount Rushmore National Memorial. The city offers a unique blend of outdoor adventures, historical sites, and cultural attractions, all set against the backdrop of the stunning Black Hills.
Top Attractions
Mount Rushmore National Memorial
A massive granite sculpture featuring the 60-foot heads of four U.S. presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. It's one of the most iconic landmarks in the United States.
Historical
2-3 hours
Free (parking fee applies)
Badlands National Park
A stunning landscape of layered rock formations, deep canyons, and towering spires. The park offers hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives.
Nature
Full day
Free (parking fee applies)
Crazy Horse Memorial
A massive mountain carving honoring the Lakota leader Crazy Horse. The memorial includes a museum and cultural center.
Historical
2-3 hours
$12 per adult, $6 per child (ages 6-12), free for children under 6
Reptile Gardens
A family-friendly attraction featuring a wide variety of reptiles, amphibians, and birds. The park also offers live animal shows and a petting zoo.
Nature
1-2 hours
$18 per adult, $10 per child (ages 4-12), free for children under 4
Must-Try Local Dishes
Chislic
Cubed, deep-fried meat, typically made from lamb or venison, seasoned with garlic salt. A South Dakota specialty.
Appetizer/Snack
Not vegetarian/vegan
Bison Burger
A burger made from bison meat, often served with local toppings and sides.
Main Course
Can be made gluten-free and vegetarian options available
Kuchen
A German-inspired dessert, similar to a coffee cake, often made with fruit and topped with a crumbly streusel.
Dessert
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking
Rock climbing
Mountain biking
Spa treatments
Scenic drives
Picnicking
Museum visits
Art galleries
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather and all attractions open. It's ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.
20-30°C
68-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
United States Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
GMT-6 (Central Standard Time)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Rapid City is generally safe with low crime rates. However, visitors should take standard precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious when using ATMs
- • Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas
Getting there
By air
- Rapid City Regional Airport • 10 miles from city center
By bus
Jefferson Lines
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and convenient bus service covering major areas of Rapid City. Fares are reasonable, and schedules are available online.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
Downtown Rapid City
West Blvd
Black Hills
Day trips
Deadwood
35 miles • Half day to full day
A historic gold rush town with a rich Wild West heritage. Deadwood offers a variety of historical sites, casinos, and entertainment options.
Custer State Park
30 miles • Full day
A beautiful state park with scenic drives, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing. The park is home to a large herd of bison and offers a variety of outdoor activities.
Wind Cave National Park
45 miles • Full day
A unique national park known for its extensive cave system and surface features. The park offers cave tours, hiking, and wildlife viewing.
Festivals
Sturgis Motorcycle Rally • August
Days of '76 Rodeo • July
Pro tips
- Visit Mount Rushmore early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat.
- Check for special events and festivals before planning your trip.
- Explore the Black Hills National Forest for stunning scenic drives and hiking trails.
- Try local specialties like chislic and bison dishes.
- Use the Rapid Ride bus service for convenient and affordable transportation around the city.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
