2023-01-25 13:33:37
Surrounded by the beauty of Black Hills National Forest, 60-foot-tall faces of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln are carved high in a granite mountainside. Add these things to your list when planning your visit to Mount Rushmore National Memorial. TOP THINGS TO DO [1] Learn fascinating details about the carving process at the Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center. [2] Experience the patriotic Evening Lighting Ceremony held nightly from late May through September. The ceremony includes an inspirational ranger program, followed by a short film. The sculpture is lit as the National Anthem is sung. [3] Stroll the Avenue of Flags, which has recently undergone significant enhancements. The 56 flags that line the walkway represent 50 states, one district, three territories and two commonwealths. [4] Get excellent views and great photos of the sculpture from the Grand View Terrace and the Borglum View Terrace. [5] Visit the Sculptor’s Studio to learn about the carver’s vision. During the summer, rangers present talks at the studio focusing on the workers who helped Borglum create Mount Rushmore and the tools and techniques they used. [6] Hike the Presidential Trail for the closest viewpoints of the stone faces. The short trail takes you among blast fragments at the base of the monument. [7] Learn about the American Indian tribes indigenous to the Black Hills at the Lakota, Nakota and Dakota Heritage Village. [8] Rent a hand-held photo/video tour or an audio wand and take a self-guided tour. [9] Dine with the presidents at Carvers’ Café. Be sure to get a scoop of Thomas Jefferson ice cream based on the first written recipe in the U.S. DISCOVER MORE AT NPS.GOV/MORU
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