Private Tour of Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse and Custer State Park

Exploring South Dakota’s Iconic Landmarks with a Private Guided Tour

When it comes to visiting South Dakota’s most famous sights—Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and Custer State Park—doing it independently can be overwhelming. That’s where a well-reviewed private tour like this one from GeoFunTrek Tours comes into play. Although we haven’t personally taken it, the glowing reviews and detailed itineraries suggest that this experience could be a fantastic way to see the Black Hills without the hassle of planning logistics yourself.

What we love about this tour is the personalized attention from knowledgeable guides, the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, and the value-packed inclusion of entry fees and refreshments. Plus, the flexibility in stops means you can linger longer at sites that excite you most. The only potential drawback? With a price tag of $400 per person, it’s a significant investment, but many find that the curated experience justifies the cost—especially for families or groups wanting a comfy, stress-free day.

This tour is perfect for travelers who prioritize comfort and expertise, especially if you’re keen to learn about the sites from local guides who bring stories and insights to life. It also suits those who prefer a more leisurely, customized visit over rushing around on their own.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: You’ll enjoy the company of dedicated guides who can tailor the day to your interests.
• All-Inclusive Pricing: Entry fees, snacks, bottled water, and light refreshments are included, making it transparent and hassle-free.
• Flexible Itinerary: Stops at sites like Custer State Park allow for spontaneous photo ops, short hikes, or extra exploration.
• Convenience & Comfort: Hotel pickup and private transportation mean you skip the logistical stress.
• In-Depth Knowledge: Guides like John, Chris, and Cindy are praised for their friendly approach and extensive local knowledge.
• Great Value: For about 8 to 9 hours, you gain access to multiple major sites with expert commentary—something that would be hard to replicate on your own.

Why Choose This Tour?

This private tour offers a relaxed, all-in-one experience of some of South Dakota’s most iconic sights, making it ideal for visitors who want to maximize their time and minimize planning stress. When you book, you’re stepping into a thoughtfully curated day where the logistics are handled, and the focus is on enjoying your surroundings.

The hotel pickup saves you from the hassle of renting a car or navigating unfamiliar roads, especially in the Black Hills’ winding terrain. The private group format also means you can customize your stops—whether that’s spending extra time at Mount Rushmore’s Presidential Trail or taking a longer hike in Custer State Park.

In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Mount Rushmore National Memorial

This tour begins with a visit to the famous Mount Rushmore, where your guide will take you beyond just admiring the iconic faces. You’ll explore the Sculptor’s Studio, learn about the history behind the monument, and stroll along the Presidential Trail. One reviewer noted that walking through the monument allows you to see the incredible detail that photos can’t capture, making it a must-see.

Expect around 1 hour and 30 minutes here, with entry fees included. Guides like John are praised for their engaging commentary—some even shared poems about the monument, adding a personal and cultural layer to the visit.

Crazy Horse Memorial

Next, the tour takes you to the Crazy Horse Memorial, taller than Mount Rushmore and still under construction. Your guide will share stories about the warrior and the monument’s ongoing story. Reviewers emphasize the importance of this stop for understanding Native American history and culture, with some commenting on the impressive size and detailed craftsmanship of the sculpture.

This site gets another 1 hour and 30 minutes, allowing enough time for photos and learning. Some visitors appreciated being able to explore the pavilion and get a feel for the scope of the project. The tour might not include a ride closer to the sculpture, but the views from the pavilion are well worth it.

Custer State Park

The final stretch is a three-hour drive through Custer State Park, covering 71,000 acres of scenic beauty. Your guide will stop at viewpoints, and you can choose to do short hikes or visit visitor centers and lodges. The routes include the Needles Highway, Iron Mountain Road, and the Wildlife Loop Road—all renowned for breathtaking vistas and opportunities to spot wildlife.

According to reviews, the drives through these areas are stunning, offering views that surpass expectations. You might see herds of bison crossing the road, pronghorn antelopes, or wild burros grazing nearby. Some guests noted that this part of the trip is flexible, giving you time to soak in the scenery or snap photos.

Practical Details and What It Means for You

Transportation and Group Size

You’ll be traveling in a comfortable private vehicle with your guide at the wheel. The tour can accommodate both large and small groups, including families and friends, ensuring a more intimate experience. Several reviewers mentioned the ease of pickup and drop-off at their hotel, which saved them time and effort.

Duration and Pacing

Spanning approximately 8 to 9 hours, the tour is designed to balance sightseeing with ample time for photos and exploration. Most reviews highlight how the schedule is flexible enough to allow linger time at favorite spots or skip others if you prefer.

Price and Value

At $400 per person, the tour isn’t cheap, but considering it includes all entry fees, snacks, bottled water, and a dedicated guide, many find it offers good value. The guided experience, personalized attention, and convenience are often cited as worth the price—especially compared to the cost of renting a car, paying individual entrance fees, and purchasing snacks separately.

Review Highlights and Unique Insights

• Guides like John, Chris, and Cindy are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling skills, making history come alive.
• The photography opportunities are plentiful, with stops like the Doane Robinson Tunnel framing Mount Rushmore perfectly.
• The wildlife encounters—from bison crossing the road to pronghorns and burros—add an authentic touch to the experience, making it more than just a sightseeing bus tour.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private experience is ideal for families, couples, or friends who want a hassle-free, educational, and scenic day in the Black Hills. If you value expert guidance, flexible stops, and the convenience of all-inclusive pricing, this tour checks many boxes. It’s especially suited for those who prefer a personalized touch over large group tours, and who want to capture memorable photos without rushing.

It’s perfect for travelers who might find navigating the Black Hills on their own challenging or stressful, and for visitors eager to learn the stories behind the sights from locals with a passion for the area.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a private tour of Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and Custer State Park offers a comfortable, insightful, and memorable way to explore some of South Dakota’s crown jewels. With expert guides, scenic drives, and all costs covered upfront, you can focus purely on enjoying the sights and stories that make these landmarks so special.

While the price might seem steep to some, the value lies in the ease of logistics, personalized attention, and deeper understanding you gain—especially if you’re short on time or prefer a curated experience. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, this tour promises a well-rounded introduction to the Black Hills’ natural beauty and cultural significance.

FAQ

• What is the starting time for this tour? The tour begins at 9:00 am, with hotel pickups arranged beforehand.
• Is this a group tour or private? It’s a private tour, meaning only your group participates, allowing for personalized scheduling.
• Are entry fees included? Yes, all entrance fees for Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and Custer State Park are included.
• What is the duration? The entire experience lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours.
• Can I customize the stops or pace? Yes, the itinerary is flexible, allowing you to linger longer or skip certain parts based on your interests.
• Is food provided? Snacks, bottled water, and apple juice are included, but lunch is at your own expense and discretion.
• Is pickup available from my hotel? Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making the day seamless.
• Are children allowed? Most travelers can participate, and the tour is suitable for families, but it’s best to confirm if you have very young children.
• What about safety measures? The guides monitor health and safety closely, with limited guides and private groups to ensure social distancing.
• Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

If you’re after a stress-free, in-depth exploration of South Dakota’s most famous landmarks, this private tour offers a compelling mix of scenery, stories, and comfort. It’s a memorable way to see the Black Hills without the stress of planning every detail yourself.