BLACK HILLS BADLANDS Nat i & ona l Mem o r REGION i al M ou nt Rush m o re Mount Rushmore National Memorial See the monumental 60-foot sculptures of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln etched into a granite mountainside THINGS TO DO Learn about the carving process at the Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center. Peruse the gift shop for memories and fantastic books chronicling the history of the region. 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. Veterans in attendance are recognized for their service. Stroll the Avenue of Flags where 56 flags line the walkway. They represent 50 states, one district, three territories, and two commonwealths. Enjoy excellent views and take great photos of the sculpture from the Grand View Terrace and the Borglum View Terrace. Visit the Sculptor’s Studio to learn about the carver’s vision. During the summer, rangers present talks focusing on the workers who helped Borglum create Mount Rushmore along with the tools and techniques they used. 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. Learn about the indigenous tribes of the Black Hills at the Lakota, Nakota and Dakota Heritage Village. Rent a hand-held photo/video tour or an audio wand and take a self-guided tour. SCULPTOR’S STUDIO THOMAS JEFFERSON’S ORIGINAL RECIPE ICE CREAM 44 // #DiscoverBlackHillsBadlands
South Dakota Vacation Guide 2025 South Dakota Vacation Guide: Page 44
