Mount Rushmore National Memorial Travel Guide
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Facts and practical information
Nestled in the Black Hills of South Dakota, Mount Rushmore National Memorial is an iconic symbol of American history and culture. This massive sculpture features the faces of four of the country's most revered presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. Carved into the granite rock face, the 60-foot tall faces are an impressive sight to behold, drawing millions of visitors from around the world each year.
The memorial was sculpted by Gutzon Borglum and his son Lincoln Borglum over a 14-year period, from 1927 to 1941. The intricate details of the presidents' faces are a testament to the skill and artistry of the sculptors. Visitors can learn about the history and significance of the memorial at the on-site Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center, which offers exhibits, films, and ranger-led programs.
In addition to marveling at the sculpture itself, visitors can explore the surrounding natural beauty of the Black Hills. The memorial is surrounded by miles of hiking trails, offering stunning views of the monument and the surrounding landscape. The nearby Black Hills National Forest provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, including camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
For those interested in learning more about the history and culture of the region, a visit to the nearby Crazy Horse Memorial is a must. This ongoing monument, which is still under construction, honors the legendary Lakota leader Crazy Horse and is the largest mountain carving in the world.
Mount Rushmore National Memorial Attractions - What to See and Explore
Mount Rushmore National Memorial offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Presidential Trail.mt Rushmore, Construction of Mount Rushmore, Sculptor's Studio Talk, Amphitheater. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Mount Rushmore National Memorial – popular in the area (distance from the center)
In the vicinity of Mount Rushmore National Memorial, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Crazy Horse Memorial (Custer), Sylvan Lake (Custer State Park), Lincoln Borglum Museum (Keystone).
Best Time To Visit Mount Rushmore National Memorial
Learn when is the best time to travel to Mount Rushmore National Memorial weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience the Park
Wildlife
AnimalsSee what popular animal species you can meet in this location.
American Bison, Buffalo
The largest terrestrial animals in North America, bison are characterized by a hump over the front shoulders and slimmer hindquarters. Herds can be found in parts of Alberta, British...
Mammals
Coyote
The coyote is a species of canine native to North America. It is smaller than its close relative, the gray wolf, and slightly smaller than the closely related eastern wolf and red wolf.
Mammals
Raccoon
The raccoon is a medium-sized mammal native to North America. The raccoon is the largest of the procyonid family, having a body length of 40 to 70 cm and a body weight of 5 to 26 kg.
Mammals
Bald eagle
The bald eagle is a bird of prey found in North America. A sea eagle, it has two known subspecies and forms a species pair with the white-tailed eagle. Its range includes most of Canada and...
Birds
Elk
The elk or wapiti is one of the largest species within the deer family, Cervidae, and one of the largest terrestrial mammals in North America and Northeast Asia.
Mammals
South Dakota