Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Mount Rushmore National Memorial is a must-visit destination in the United States, located in the Black Hills of South Dakota. The memorial is a massive sculpture carved into the granite face of the mountain, depicting the faces of four American presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. Here’s everything you need to know about Mount Rushmore National Memorial.

History of Mount Rushmore National Memorial

The idea for Mount Rushmore began in 1923, when South Dakota historian Doane Robinson proposed the idea of carving famous figures into the Black Hills to attract tourists to the state. Sculptor Gutzon Borglum was hired to design and oversee the construction of the sculpture. Work began in 1927 and continued for 14 years, with the faces of Washington and Jefferson completed first, followed by Roosevelt and Lincoln. The finished sculpture stands at 60 feet tall and 185 feet wide.

Things to Do at Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Visitors to Mount Rushmore National Memorial can explore the park’s many attractions, including:

Viewing the Sculpture: The sculpture is the main attraction at Mount Rushmore National Memorial, and visitors can view it from several locations throughout the park. The most popular viewing spot is the Grand View Terrace, which offers a panoramic view of the sculpture and the surrounding Black Hills.

Visiting the Sculptor’s Studio: The Sculptor’s Studio is a museum that tells the story of the creation of the Mount Rushmore sculpture. Visitors can see models, tools, and photos from the carving process, as well as learn about the lives of the workers who built the sculpture.

Taking a Guided Tour: Guided tours are available at Mount Rushmore National Memorial, offering visitors the chance to learn more about the sculpture and the history of the Black Hills. The tours are led by knowledgeable park rangers and cover a variety of topics, including the geology of the Black Hills and the lives of the presidents depicted on the sculpture.

Hiking Trails: Mount Rushmore National Memorial has several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the sculpture and the surrounding Black Hills. The Presidential Trail is a popular trail that takes visitors on a 0.6-mile loop around the base of the sculpture.

Attending Ranger Programs: Mount Rushmore National Memorial offers a variety of ranger-led programs, including talks, walks, and demonstrations. The programs cover a range of topics, including the history of the sculpture, the wildlife of the Black Hills, and the geology of the area.

Visiting the Amphitheater: The Mount Rushmore Amphitheater is a venue that hosts a variety of events, including concerts, speeches, and ceremonies. The amphitheater is located at the base of the sculpture and can seat up to 17,000 people.

Planning Your Visit

Mount Rushmore National Memorial is open year-round, although hours may vary depending on the season. Admission to the park is free, although there is a parking fee of $10 per vehicle. The park is busiest during the summer months, so plan your visit accordingly. There are several nearby towns with lodging and dining options, including Keystone and Rapid City.

Mount Rushmore National Memorial is a unique and iconic destination in the United States, offering visitors the chance to explore the history and culture of the country. With its stunning sculpture, hiking trails, and ranger-led programs, Mount Rushmore National Memorial is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Black Hills region of South Dakota.