Mount Rushmore Theodore Roosevelt and Badlands Self-Guided Tour

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Overview

Discover the wonders of the American heartland with our Mount Rushmore & Great Plains Audio Tour Bundle! Marvel at the iconic Mount Rushmore, where our guides share fascinating stories about the presidents carved into the mountain and the history behind this monumental project. Then, journey through the vast Great Plains, exploring wide-open prairies, historic landmarks, and diverse wildlife. Learn about the Native American history, pioneer trails, and natural beauty that define this region. Perfect for families, history buffs, and adventure seekers, this bundle offers a captivating and educational experience. Simply download, plug in your headphones, and set off on a remarkable journey through Mount Rushmore and the Great Plains!

*Download the Shaka Guide app to access the purchased tours*

What's Included

Tours NEVER expire
Freedom to explore at your own pace
Offline map (no wifi or data needed)
Turn-by-turn directions using GPS
Hours of audio narration with stories, travel tips and music
Audio narration that plays automatically as you drive

Meals and Refreshments
Private Transportation
Entrance Fees
Parking Fees
Cosmos Mystery Area: $14 per adult
Custer State Park: $20 per vehicle

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Meeting Location

Meeting point

Rapid City
SD, USA

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Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What To Expect

Day 1

Mount Rushmore & Great Plains Tour Bundle

20 Stops

Cosmos Mystery Area

In 1952, two college students discovered strange occurrences on the site of an old summer cabin.Balls rolled uphill, water flowed upwards, and people appeared shorter or taller than they actually were.Today, Cosmos Mystery Cabin is a popular tourist attraction known for these mind-bending illusions and unexplainable phenomena.

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Keystone

Once upon a time, Keystone was a gold mine outpost. Then, it became a home base for the folks that carved Mount Rushmore. Now, it's a lively resort town!Keystone offers a taste of the gold rush era with restaurants, gift shops, old old-fashioned candy stores, alongside thrilling adventures like zip lines and helicopter tours.It's the perfect basecamp for exploring the Black Hills' natural beauty and iconic monuments.

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Mount Rushmore National Memorial

There's so much more to do at Mt. Rushmore than gaze at those four iconic faces. Hike the 0.6-mile Presidential Trail for a closer look.Learn about sculptor Gutzon Borglum at his studio, and explore the visitor center's exhibits.Catch a ranger talk or watch the awe-inspiring evening lighting ceremony, too!

1 hour • Admission Ticket Free

Wrinkled Rock Climbers Trailhead

Offers a variety of climbing opportunities and routes for all skill levels.There are several free tent pad sites available near the trailhead on a first-come, first-served basis.The trailhead provides parking, a restroom facility, and some climbing information.

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Breezy Point Picnic Area

Five-site picnic area with accessible bathrooms and scenic overlooks of the Black Elk Wilderness, Mount Rushmore, and the Black Elk Peak

Admission Ticket Free

Horse Thief Lake

There are two hiking options here:Shorter Scenic Hike: a 2.7-mile out-and-back, moderate trail. It follows a gentle creek with scenic views of rock formations and towering pines.Longer Loop Adventure: a challenging 11-mile loop trail. This route takes you through dense Black Hills forests with occasional glimpses of dramatic rock outcroppings. Be prepared for some muddy sections and potential horse encounters.

1 hour • Admission Ticket Free

Needles Scenic View

"This is a 14-mile scenic drive through Custer State Park. This historic road was built in the 1920s, and it twists and turns alongside dramatic scenery.Keep an eye out for the iconic Needle's Eye Tunnel. This narrow passage (around 8 feet wide) cuts through a towering granite spire.Don't forget to pull off and explore! Short trails lead to viewpoints where you can admire the Needles up close. For a panoramic vista of the entire Needles Highway, stop at the Cathedral Spires Overlook. Here, you can take in the breathtaking display of granite spires reaching towards the sky.

1 hour • Admission Ticket Free

Little Devil's Tower Trail

The trail is a 3.8-mile out-and-back with moderate difficulty. The initial section is easy, but expect switchbacks and some climbing later on. The final ascent to the top of Little Devils Tower involves some scrambling over rocks. Despite the climb, the payoff is incredible. Enjoy 360-degree views of the Black Hills, including the Needles, Black Elk Peak fire tower, and more.

Admission Ticket Free

Needles Eye

The Needle's Eye Tunnel is 8 feet 4 inches wide by 12 feet high. It was carved carved through a towering granite spire, is a highlight of the scenic Needles Highway. Imagine driving through a natural frame, with the rock formation mere feet from your car! It allows only one car at a time, adding a touch of excitement (or challenge) to your road trip adventure.

5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Cathedral Spires Hiking Trail

Short but moderately challenging 1.5-mile out-and-back trail. The trail leads you right up to the base of the Cathedral Spires, towering granite pillars that resemble a cathedral. Be prepared for some sections where you might need to scramble over rocks. The hike rewards you with stunning views of the Needles, a unique landscape of spiky granite formations.

45 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Custer State Park

Nestled in South Dakota's Black Hills, Custer State Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Cruise the Needles Highway, a scenic drive with tunnels that pierce granite spires. Hike to the top of Little Devils Tower for panoramic views. Spot bison roaming free in the wild or take a scenic train ride. The park offers a historic lodge, campgrounds, and cozy cabins for an unforgettable Black Hills adventure.

Admission Ticket Free

Peter Norbeck Outdoor Education Center

The Peter Norbeck Outdoor Education Center ignites curiosity about the Black Hills' wonders. This historic lodge, built from local stone, is a haven for families. Inside, exhibits showcase the park's wildlife, geology, and history. Kids can explore a recreated mine and learn about nature through interactive displays. Outside, play areas and trails provide hands-on learning adventures for all ages.

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Wildlife Loop Road

Custer State Park's 18-mile Wildlife Loop is an unforgettable animal encounter. This scenic drive winds past rolling prairies, forests, and canyons. Be sure to pack your binoculars! The star attraction is the park's 1,300-strong bison herd, often grazing in the meadows. Keep your eyes peeled for other residents like elk, deer, pronghorn antelope, and even the occasional bighorn sheep or burros. Remember, stay in your car and observe from a distance – these are wild animals!

Admission Ticket Free

Badger Hole Historic Site

This humble cabin was once home to South Dakota's beloved poet, Badger Clark. Explore the site and imagine Clark crafting cowboy poetry amidst the Black Hills' beauty. While the cabin itself might be closed for preservation (depending on the season), the surrounding area offers a short trail for a peaceful walk through history.

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Custer

Stroll down historic Main Street lined with shops, restaurants, and art galleries. Take a ride on the 1880 Steam Train for a nostalgic journey through the Black Hills.

15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Crazy Horse Memorial

This colossal work in progress depicts Oglala Lakota warrior Crazy Horse on horseback, honoring his fight for his people's freedom. Started in 1948, it's the world's largest mountain carving underway. At the visitor center, you can explore the Indian Museum of North America to delve into the rich history and culture of the Lakota people. Catch traditional Lakota dance performances or browse authentic Native American arts and crafts. Special events throughout the year offer a deeper dive into their heritage.

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Beaver Creek Bridge

Explore intricate caverns adorned with glistening crystals on a guided tour. Marvel at the Boxwork Formation, a one-of-a-kind web of calcite blades. Feel the cool air rushing through the cave – it's the namesake wind, one of the strongest winds ever recorded underground! Above ground, hike scenic trails spotting prairie wildlife. Wind Cave offers a unique adventure for all ages.

Admission Ticket Free

Iron Mountain Road

Cruise the scenic Iron Mountain Road, a 17-mile adventure connecting Custer State Park to Mount Rushmore. Prepare for twists and turns with breathtaking Black Hills views. Keep an eye out for the Doane Robinson and Scovel Johnson tunnels. Time your drive to see Mount Rushmore framed perfectly through the openings! Pigtail Bridges: These ingenious structures loop the road back under itself, allowing for steeper climbs and showcasing engineering marvels.

1 hour • Admission Ticket Free

Norbeck Overlook

Perched along the Iron Mountain Scenic Drive, the Norbeck Overlook offers a free glimpse of Mount Rushmore's grandeur. This short detour rewards you with a breathtaking vista of the Black Hills, with the iconic presidents' faces peeking above the pines in the distance. It's a perfect spot to snap photos and appreciate the scale of Mount Rushmore without the entrance fee. For a closer look, continue your journey on the scenic drive towards the monument itself.

1 hour • Admission Ticket Free

Jewel Cave National Monument

Explore a labyrinth of sparkling calcite crystals on a ranger-led tour. Descend hundreds of feet for a glimpse of the otherworldly formations – glistening frostwork, delicate needles, and massive cave balloons. Choose from easy walking tours to lantern-lit spelunking adventures for a taste of historic cave exploration. While the surface offers hiking trails, the true wonders lie beneath, waiting to be discovered.

1 hour • Admission Ticket Free

Day 2

Theodore Roosevelt National Park

15 Stops

Painted Canyon Visitor Center

Plan your Theodore Roosevelt National Park adventure at the Painted Canyon Visitor Center in Medora, North Dakota. Park rangers will answer your questions and help you choose the perfect hike. Learn about the park's wonders through exhibits, then grab a souvenir at the gift shop. Before you hit the trails, soak in the panoramic views of the South Unit's Badlands formations. This visitor center is your gateway to exploring scenic drives and hikes like the bison-dotted Painted Canyon Nature Trail.

1 hour • Admission Ticket Free

Medora

History meets wild beauty in Medora, North Dakota. Explore the deMores Packing Plant ruins, the Cowboy Hall of Fame, Theodore Roosevelt National Park's South Unit, and more! Hike the bison-dotted trails or challenge yourself on the Maah Daah Hey Trail. Catch the acclaimed Medora Musical, a lively celebration of Roosevelt's legacy. Go horseback riding or take a scenic bus tour for stunning Badlands views. In the evening, unwind at a charming restaurant or explore the shops on Medora's historic main street. This little town offers a taste of Western hospitality alongside stunning natural wonders.

Admission Ticket Free

Maltese Cross Cabin

Step back in time at the Maltese Cross Cabin in Theodore Roosevelt National Park. This historic log cabin was once a temporary home for the young Theodore Roosevelt, before he became president. Explore the restored cabin and imagine Roosevelt's life as a cowboy rancher. Exhibits showcase his personal effects, offering a glimpse into his early days spent ranching in the rugged Badlands. It's a fascinating look into the life of the conservationist-turned-president who shaped American history.

1 hour • Admission Ticket Free

South Unit Visitor Center

The Theodore Roosevelt National Park's South Unit Visitor Center in Medora, North Dakota, is your one-stop shop for park adventures. Chat with park rangers for the latest trail conditions, animal migration patters, and weather. Browse the gift shop for souvieniers from this epic adventure through the North Dakota Badlands. And learn more about the man himself, President Theodore Roosevelt.

1 hour • Admission Ticket Free

Prairie Dog Metropolis

Imagine a vast grassland dotted with hundreds of burrows – that's your cue! These social critters, also called black-tailed prairie dogs, pop out to greet you with barks and chirps. Be sure to stay on designated trails and observe from afar – these playful creatures are wild! It's a fun and unique opportunity to witness a bustling prairie dog community in their natural habitat.

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Peaceful Valley Ranch

This historic dude ranch, once a bustling center of ranch life, offers a glimpse into the past. Explore the restored ranch house and stables, remnants of a bygone era. While horseback riding is no longer available, scenic trails wind through the ranch, allowing you to experience the beauty of the park on foot. You may also get a glimpse of the famous Wild Horses, eho often hang out here.

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Boicourt Overlook Trail

This short, paved path is perfect for all ages. Walk alongside a valley brimming with the park's colorful Badlands formations. Reach the end of the paved trail for a scenic overlook. Feeling adventurous? Continue on a short, unpaved section for an even more dramatic view of the Badlands sprawling out before you. Keep your eyes peeled for grazing bison and soaring birds of prey as you soak in the park's beauty.

1 hour • Admission Ticket Free

Buck Hill Trail

This short, but steep path is an out-and-back trek. Imagine a winding path ascending a butte, with stunning views of the surrounding Badlands unfolding with every step. Reach the top for panoramic vistas of the entire South Unit, from Painted Canyon to beyond. Spot wild horses or bison grazing in the distance. Remember, proper footwear is essential, and enjoy the sense of accomplishment at the summit!

1 hour • Admission Ticket Free

Coal Vein Nature Trail

This short loop winds past remnants of a once-burning coal seam. Imagine the ground beneath your feet smoldering for decades! Informative signs tell the story of this geological oddity. Climb wooden stairs for views of the Badlands landscape, keeping an eye out for prairie dogs and other wildlife. The trail offers a unique glimpse into the park's geologic past alongside scenic vistas.

2 hours • Admission Ticket Free

Scoria Point Overlook

This easily accessible stop offers panoramic views unlike any other. Imagine a landscape painted in hues of red, yellow, and gray – evidence of volcanic activity that baked the surrounding earth long ago. Spot the coal seams that once caught fire, adding another layer to the park's geologic story. Keep your eyes peeled for bighorn sheep grazing on the cliffs, adding a touch of life to the dramatic scene. It's a perfect spot to capture the essence of the Badlands in a single breathtaking vista.

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Buckhorn Trail

This challenging, 11-mile loop winds through vast prairies and dramatic ravines. Be prepared for sections that can be difficult to follow, especially after rain. Hike alongside wildflower meadows and spot bison grazing in the distance. While some sections follow the park's scenic drive, offering glimpses of fellow explorers, much of the trail allows you to immerse yourself in the park's quiet beauty. Remember, this is for experienced hikers with proper navigation skills and plenty of water for a remote adventure.

Admission Ticket Free

Cannonball Concretions Pullout

Cannonball Concretions pulloff surprises you with geological oddities. Imagine giant, spherical boulders scattered across the landscape – these aren't errant cannonballs, but ancient mysteries! Stop and explore these fascinating sandstone concretions, formed millions of years ago when minerals cemented sand particles around a core. Informative signs explain their formation as you marvel at these natural wonders contrasting with the rugged Badlands backdrop. It's a quick stop with a big impact, perfect for a photo opportunity or a break on your scenic drive.

1 hour • Admission Ticket Free

Long X Divide

This moderate, 5.8-mile path was once a cattle drive route used by ranchers, including a young Theodore Roosevelt himself! Imagine cowboys herding longhorns across these very plains. The trail winds through rolling prairies and dips into colorful canyons, offering diverse scenery. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife and soak in the vastness of the Badlands landscape. The Long X Trail is a perfect way to experience a slice of ranching history while enjoying the park's natural beauty.

Admission Ticket Free

Caprock-Coulee Trail

This .08 mile nature walk turns into a a moderate 4.3-mile loop that offers something for everyone. Start by following a scenic trail through a narrow canyon, teeming with plant and animal life. Ascend for breathtaking views of the Little Missouri River Valley. The trail winds along grassy buttes and dramatic bluffs, showcasing the park's geologic wonders. Keep your eyes peeled for bison and other wildlife roaming the plains below. Remember, choose the clockwise direction for a more gradual climb, and enjoy this classic Badlands adventure.

Admission Ticket Free

Oxbow Overlook

Stand in awe at Theodore Roosevelt National Park's North Unit's crown jewel, Oxbow Overlook. This easily accessible viewpoint offers a panoramic vista unlike any other. Gaze upon the Little Missouri River curving dramatically in a perfect oxbow, a classic geologic wonder. Interpretive signs explain the river's story. For a closer look, embark on the easy, 0.2-mile Sperati Point Trail that leads to a higher viewpoint for even more stunning river and Badlands views. Oxbow Overlook is a must-see, offering a glimpse of the park's beauty and the power of natural forces.

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Day 3

Badlands National Park

25 Stops

Minuteman Missile National Historic Site

Step back into Cold War tensions at Minuteman Missile National Historic Site in South Dakota. Explore a decommissioned launch facility and missile silo. Tour the Launch Control Facility, a once-top-secret underground bunker where crews could have fired Minuteman II missiles. See a real missile up close at the Delta-09 silo, a chilling reminder of the era's nuclear threat. The park preserves history to help us understand the dangers and importance of nuclear deterrence.

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Oglala Lakota Living History Village

Immerse yourself in Lakota life at the Oglala Lakota Living History Village in South Dakota. Walk through recreations of tipis and log cabins, learning how the Oglala people adapted their dwellings on the Pine Ridge Reservation. Local Lakota guides share their culture and history. See traditional crafts demonstrated, like hide tanning and beadwork. This open-air museum offers a glimpse into the past and a chance to appreciate the enduring spirit of the Oglala Lakota Nation.

1 hour • Admission Ticket Free

Prairie Homestead Historic Site

This historic site features a preserved sod house built in 1909 by Ed and Alice Brown. Explore their original dugout dwelling and outbuildings, understanding the challenges and triumphs of homesteading life. See farm animals, both rare white prairie dogs and more familiar creatures. Dress in period clothing for a fun, interactive experience. This glimpse into the past showcases the grit and resourcefulness of early South Dakota settlers.

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Big Badlands Overlook

A short, accessible trail leads to a viewing platform where you can soak in the dramatic landscape. Layers of colorful rock formations, sculpted by wind and erosion, stretch into the distance. The eastern wall of the Badlands, known as the "Wall," dominates the view, showcasing reddish hues of the Brule Formation. It's a perfect introduction to the park's striking beauty, ideal for capturing panoramic photos or simply marveling at the stark yet captivating scenery.

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Door Trail

A wheelchair-accessible boardwalk leads you on a quarter-mile journey. Pass through a natural opening in the rock formations, nicknamed "The Door." This scenic passageway opens up to a breathtaking vista of the Badlands' rugged landscape. Beyond the boardwalk, a more challenging, unmarked trail continues for adventurous hikers, offering a closer look at the eroded spires and canyons.

Admission Ticket Free

Notch Trail

Embark on an adventurous hike through the Badlands on the Notch Trail. This 1.5-mile round-trip trek offers more than scenic views. Traverse a canyon and conquer a thrilling wooden ladder section, adding a touch of excitement. The "Notch" itself awaits at the end, a dramatic viewpoint overlooking the White River Valley. Remember, this moderately challenging trail with uneven terrain and heights might not be for everyone, but the reward is a breathtaking panorama of the Badlands' rugged beauty.

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Castle Trail

This 5-mile, point-to-point adventure takes you past prairies and dramatic rock formations, nicknamed "castles." Unlike most Badlands trails, it's relatively flat, perfect for moderate fitness levels. Hike through open fields, marvel at colorful rock formations, and keep your eyes peeled for wildlife like bighorn sheep and prairie dogs. Remember, it's an out-and-back trail, so plan accordingly.

Admission Ticket Free

Window Trailhead

This short, fully accessible path is perfect for all ages and abilities. A wooden boardwalk winds its way for a quarter-mile, leading you to a natural opening in the Badlands Wall – the aptly named "Window." This scenic frame offers a stunning vista of the intricately eroded canyons and layered rock formations stretching into the distance. It's a perfect way to experience the Badlands' beauty without a strenuous hike.

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Ben Reifel Visitor Center

The Ben Reifel Visitor Center is the main hub xof Badlands National Park. Inside, you'll find exhibits showcasing the park's geology, fossils, and cultural history. Watch a park film to get oriented, or chat with rangers for trip planning tips. The center also features a fossil preparation lab (sometimes with a scientist working!), a bookstore, and restrooms. It's fully accessible and a great place to start your Badlands adventure.

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Fossil Exhibit Trail

While the Fossil Exhibit Trail at Badlands National Park won't show you actual fossils in the ground, it's a great starting point for learning about the park's rich paleontology. This short, accessible boardwalk loop features informative displays with replicas of ancient creatures. Walk through geologic time, illustrated by the colorful rock layers, and discover the fascinating fossils found here, from saber-toothed cats to giant mammals. It's a perfect introduction to the Badlands' prehistoric past for visitors of all ages.

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Bigfoot Pass Overlook

This easily accessible stop commemorates Chief Spotted Elk (Bigfoot) and his Lakota band who used this route fleeing US troops in 1890. Stand on the viewing platform and soak in the vast expanse of the Badlands, layered rock formations sculpted by wind and time. The overlook serves as a reminder of the area's human history alongside its natural wonders.

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Panorama Point

This easily accessible viewpoint offers a wide-open vista, perfect for capturing the park's essence. Imagine a panoramic painting come to life – colorful rock formations, eroded spires, and canyons stretch as far as the eye can see. The landscape unfolds below, revealing the White River Valley in the distance. It's a breathtaking introduction to the Badlands' beauty, ideal for photographers or anyone wanting to soak in the park's grandeur.

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Prairie Wind Overlook

Prairie Wind Overlook offers a serene change of pace. A short boardwalk leads you to a viewing platform overlooking a vast expanse of native prairie grass, swaying gently in the wind. This overlook showcases the park's rare, protected mixed-grass prairie ecosystem, a vital habitat for wildlife. Imagine yourself transported back in time, surrounded by a sea of green stretching towards the horizon. It's a peaceful spot for reflection and appreciating the park's diverse landscapes.

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Burns Basin Overlook

This accessible stop features a short trail and boardwalk leading to a viewing platform. The overlook gets its name from an old homestead nestled in the basin below, once used by sheepherder Wilson Burns. Unfold before you are vast rolling plains stretching towards the Buffalo Gap National Grassland. Keep an eye out for rattlesnakes, grazing bison or soaring birds of prey. Burns Basin Overlook offers a chance to appreciate the Badlands' scenic beauty beyond the dramatic spires, showcasing its connection to the wider prairie ecosystem.

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Homestead Overlook

This accessible stop offers a unique perspective. Imagine standing on the edge of the Badlands, gazing out at the labyrinth of colorful rock formations carved by millions of years of erosion. But look closer, and you'll also see the vast green expanse of the prairie stretching out in the distance. This contrasting view reflects the park's diverse landscapes and its human history. Homestead Overlook showcases the challenging beauty of the Badlands while hinting at the lives of those who attempted to tame this unforgiving land.

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Yellow Mounds Overlook

Yellow Mounds Overlook stands out for its vibrant hues. This easily accessible spot offers a different perspective on the park's geology. Unlike the usual reddish spires, here you'll be greeted by colorful layers of yellow, orange, and beige mounds. Informational signs explain how ancient seas and decaying plants created these unique formations. The overlook provides a clear view for appreciating the contrasting colors and the vastness of the Badlands landscape.

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Conata Picnic Area

Escape the crowds and find a touch of solitude! Nestled near the park's wilderness area, this remote rest stop offers a scenic break from your explorations. Enjoy a picnic lunch at a covered table while surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Badlands. Basic vault toilets are available, but there's no potable water, so come prepared. The nearby Deer Haven trailhead beckons for those who want to extend their visit with a hike into the peaceful wilderness.

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Sage Creek Loop

Adventure awaits on the Sage Creek Loop hike at Badlands National Park, but be warned – it's not for the faint of heart. This unmarked, 20+ mile trek winds through the park's wilderness, following the snaking Sage Creek. Prepare for a challenging journey with uneven terrain, potential for mud, and limited water access. You'll conquer climbs through juniper forests and marvel at scenic overlooks. The reward? A true Badlands experience, away from the crowds, and a chance to spot wildlife like bison. Remember, this is for experienced backpackers only, with proper navigation skills and supplies essential.

Admission Ticket Free

Deer Haven Trailhead

This unmaintained path, starting at the Conata Picnic Area, is more like a network of game trails. Follow it for 3 miles through rolling plains and grasslands, with the Badlands' dramatic formations as a backdrop. The trail isn't marked, so a sense of adventure is helpful. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife and enjoy the serenity of the Badlands wilderness. While there's no designated campsite, you might find a spot for a unique, backcountry camping experience.

Admission Ticket Free

Cliff Shelf Nature Trail

This 0.5-mile loop offers big rewards despite its ease. Walk along boardwalks and climb a few stairs to reach a viewing platform. Be rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the Badlands' vastness, colorful rock formations stretching towards the horizon. The trail also delves through a unique juniper forest, a refreshing change from the typical Badlands landscape. It's a perfect introduction to the park's beauty, ideal for all ages and fitness levels.

1 hour • Admission Ticket Free

Ancient Hunters Overlook

This scenic spot isn't just about views. Imagine looking out over a dense fossil bed – evidence of ancient bison hunters who drove herds over the edge millions of years ago. Informative displays tell the story of these paleo-Indians. While the geologic slump creates a slightly greener area with abundant trees, the rugged landscape reminds you of the Badlands' harsh beauty. It's a fascinating glimpse into the park's prehistoric past and a testament to the ingenuity of early inhabitants.

1 hour • Admission Ticket Free

Pinnacles Overlook

The highest point in Badlands National Park! This easily accessible stop offers a panoramic vista like no other. Imagine a vast expanse stretching before you – a maze of colorful rock formations, sculpted by wind and time, unfolds towards the distant Black Hills. Keep an eye out for bighorn sheep grazing on the slopes, adding to the dramatic scene. It's a perfect spot for photographers or anyone wanting to capture the essence of the Badlands in one stunning view.

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Sage Creek Road

This scenic, unpaved route offers a different perspective than the main park roads. Bump along for 12 miles, stopping at several overlooks for stunning views of the Badlands' vastness. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife – this area is known for its bison herds, pronghorn antelope, and bighorn sheep. You might even spot prairie dogs popping out of their burrows! Unlike the Badlands' dramatic spires, Sage Creek Rim Road showcases the park's rolling hills and rich wildlife populations.

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Delta-01 Launch Control Facility

Explore a decommissioned underground bunker where missile launch crews once stood on hair-trigger alert. Tour the facility and see the launch control room with preserved consoles and equipment. Imagine the immense responsibility of the crew who could have fired Minuteman II missiles. This National Park Service site preserves history to help us understand the dangers of nuclear weapons and the importance of peace.

Admission Ticket Free

Wall Drug

Wall Drug Store is more than a store – it's a roadside legend. Forget fancy malls, this cowboy-themed labyrinth holds everything from souvenirs and snacks to a pharmacy and restaurants. Made famous for its catchy signs promising "free ice water" miles away, it's a quirky must-stop for travelers. Enjoy a home-style meal, browse Western gifts, and snap a photo with the giant brontosaurus sculpture. It's a fun and kitschy experience that captures the spirit of South Dakota exploration.

1 hour • Admission Ticket Free

Additional Info

Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
Wheelchair accessible
Service animals allowed
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Mount Rushmore Starting Points: • Rapid City • Three Forks • Highway 16 • Highway 385 • Highway 87
Theodore Roosevelt Starting Points: • I-94 E (Sentinel Butte) • Highway 85 (Northbound) • Highway 85 (Southbound) • Dickinson, North Dakota
Badlands Starting Points: • Wasta, SD • Kadoka, SD • Conata, SD • Interior, SD

Get Started Easily: • Book Your Tour: Receive a confirmation and easy instructions via email. • Download the App: Follow the simple steps in your email. • Redeem the Tour: Use the redeem code in your email to redeem the tour in the app. • Prepare Ahead: Download the tour using strong Wi-Fi.
Begin Your Journey: • Select Your Tour: Go to the My Stuff tab in the Shaka Guide app to launch the tour. • Start the Tour: Select the tour starting point and follow the GPS instructions. • Follow Shaka Guide: Stick to the suggested route and speed for the best experience.
Why Choose Our Audio Tour: • Cost-Efficient: One tour for the entire vehicle—no per-person fees! • Ultimate Flexibility: Start, pause, and resume on your schedule. • Convenience: Use the tour any day, over multiple days if needed.
Top Features: • Hands-Free: The tour works automatically - GPS-activated stories, directions, and music play as you drive for a seamless experience. • Works Offline: No need for continuous wifi or data. • Reliable Support: Get help via call, chat, or email.
Private and Personalized: • Crowd-Free: Enjoy a private tour with just your group. • Customizable Stops: Pick the stops you want and skip the ones you don’t!
The Ultimate Guided Tour: • Detailed Itinerary: Includes travel tips and recommendations. • Engaging Narration: Captivating stories and history.
What Our Users Say: • “A fantastic way to explore! Easy to use and very informative.” • “Loved the flexibility to stop and go as we pleased. Highly recommend!”

Frequently Asked Questions

(6)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Mount Rushmore Theodore Roosevelt and Badlands Self-Guided Tour?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (MDT). Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

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Activity code: C-102020P123

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Mount Rushmore Theodore Roosevelt and Badlands Self-Guided Tour

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Mount Rushmore & Great Plains Tour Bundle

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Badlands National Park

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Are you interested in?

Mount Rushmore Theodore Roosevelt and Badlands Self-Guided Tour

from $32.99 per group

Overview

What's Included

Meeting Location

What To Expect

Mount Rushmore & Great Plains Tour Bundle

Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Badlands National Park

Additional Info

Frequently Asked Questions

Cancellation Policy

Still have questions?

Additional Info

Similar Tours & Activities

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Last Minute Availability

Popular Rapid City Searches

Accessible Rapid City Tours & Activities

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American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

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