I can't believe It's been 30 years since I was at Mt. Rushmore and the Badlands...I was 15, now I'm 46 lol. And I never got to hike the trail there. I need to get back soon! Thanks for the info!
Yes we were there last year during July 4th, and we were there for 7hrs! We enjoyed the President's talks actors gave speeches and history about each President represented. It was awesome one of our favorite memories this past summer with our kids. Actually going back again since we didn't stay for the evening service so we are doing that this summer 😊
From the video, was - at first, a bit disappointed that it wouldn't accept my Gold Star & Veteran Military Lifetime NPS pass. But, after additional research, this is designated as a National Memorial that is administered (or oversees) National Monuments by the National Park Service since 2020. National Memorials are free to the general public but as mentioned, may need to charge a fee for admission, parking, etc. I learned that there are 36 National Memorials in the United States and the National Park Service administers 31 of them. I guess I really didn't realize or differentiate between a National Park and Nation Monument. Great video on showing the importance of this monument and the variety of ways to enjoy it.
You are correct! There's so much more than just Mt Rushmore. I visited Badlands, Mt Rushmore, Custer State Park, Deadwood, Devils Tower. There's also some great drives in that area such as Needles Highway (my favorite), Iron Mountain (next to Mt Rushmore), and Spearfish Canyon on the way to Devils Tower. Deadwood was a great place to visit. Custer State Park has some good wildlife and camping. Your video makes me want to return to the Black Hills of SD.
They do have some oversized vehicle parking. And I'm not sure about coming in on a bike and not having to pay. The website says to call Xanterra 605-574-2515 if you have any questions about parking :)
I can't believe It's been 30 years since I was at Mt. Rushmore and the Badlands...I was 15, now I'm 46 lol. And I never got to hike the trail there. I need to get back soon! Thanks for the info!
You do need to go back!
Yes we were there last year during July 4th, and we were there for 7hrs! We enjoyed the President's talks actors gave speeches and history about each President represented. It was awesome one of our favorite memories this past summer with our kids. Actually going back again since we didn't stay for the evening service so we are doing that this summer 😊
Ooooh that's so cool -- I would love to be there for the 4th!
Thank you for this amazing information! We are going to have a much better experience because of your awesome tips!😊
Happy to help!
From the video, was - at first, a bit disappointed that it wouldn't accept my Gold Star & Veteran Military Lifetime NPS pass. But, after additional research, this is designated as a National Memorial that is administered (or oversees) National Monuments by the National Park Service since 2020. National Memorials are free to the general public but as mentioned, may need to charge a fee for admission, parking, etc. I learned that there are 36 National Memorials in the United States and the National Park Service administers 31 of them. I guess I really didn't realize or differentiate between a National Park and Nation Monument.
Great video on showing the importance of this monument and the variety of ways to enjoy it.
Correct, it's free to enter, but it's not free for parking.
You are correct! There's so much more than just Mt Rushmore. I visited Badlands, Mt Rushmore, Custer State Park, Deadwood, Devils Tower. There's also some great drives in that area such as Needles Highway (my favorite), Iron Mountain (next to Mt Rushmore), and Spearfish Canyon on the way to Devils Tower. Deadwood was a great place to visit. Custer State Park has some good wildlife and camping. Your video makes me want to return to the Black Hills of SD.
It's such a cool area, and my South Dakota Parks Itinerary covers all of it!
Thank you so much for the valuable information. You made my day.
You are so welcome!
I like that idea ❤❤❤
Thanks for watching!
Will the parking garage accommodate a 25 foot motor home? Can you bike in?
They do have some oversized vehicle parking. And I'm not sure about coming in on a bike and not having to pay. The website says to call Xanterra 605-574-2515 if you have any questions about parking :)
Do veterans have to pay the parking fee ?
It's free for active duty military only.
What’s the minimum days needed with your itinerary?
My South Dakota itineraries come in a 1-5 day option!