Explore Mount Rushmore and Badlands National Park in a single day, featuring guided tours, scenic drives, and wildlife encounters.
Mount Rushmore & Badlands Adventure
Summary Description
Highlights
- Marvel at Mount Rushmore's iconic sculptures
- Traverse the scenic Iron Mountain Road
- Witness breathtaking views at Pinnacles Overlook
- Spot wildlife along Sage Creek Rim Road
- Experience the unique landscapes of Badlands National Park
Description
Discover the grandeur of Mount Rushmore and the rugged beauty of Badlands National Park on this immersive day trip. Begin with a guided tour of Mount Rushmore National Memorial, where you'll learn about the history and artistry behind this iconic monument. Then, embark on a scenic drive along Iron Mountain Road, renowned for its unique pigtail bridges and framed views of the monument. In the afternoon, venture into Badlands National Park, stopping at Pinnacles Overlook for panoramic vistas and Sage Creek Rim Road to observe bison, prairie dogs, and bighorn sheep in their natural habitat. This tour offers a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and adventure, all within a single, well-planned day.
Included / Excluded
- Guided tour of Mount Rushmore National Memorial
- Scenic drive along Iron Mountain Road with pigtail bridges
- Visit to Badlands National Park with stops at Pinnacles Overlook and Sage Creek Rim Road
- Gratuities
Important Information
Know Before You Book
- This is a private tour tailored to your group's interests and pace.
- All park entrance fees and permits are included in the tour price.
- High-quality binoculars are provided for wildlife spotting during the tour.
- Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear suitable for walking and varying weather conditions.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife encounters.
- Carry a water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.
Cancellation
Cancellation Cutoff: 14 days
Cancellation Notes: A 25% non-refundable deposit is required to reserve your tour. The remaining balance is due 14 days before departure. Cancellations made within 14 days of the tour are non-refundable. Guests may reschedule up to 14 days prior for a $50 change fee, subject to availability.
Options and Pricing
Pricing for guest count above two persons is $250 per person.
| From Rapid City: Mount Rushmore & Badlands Adventure (2ppl) | RETAIL PRICE |
|---|---|
| 399.50 (18 - 100 years) | $399.50 |
| 255.00 (5 - 17 years) | $255.00 |
Points of interest
Terms and Conditions
Booking and Payment
A 25% non-refundable deposit is required at the time of booking to secure your date. The remaining balance is due 14 days before the scheduled tour. Reservations without full payment at that time may be released.
Cancellation and Rescheduling
Cancellations made within 14 days of the tour date are non-refundable. Guests may reschedule up to 14 days before departure for a $50 change fee, pending availability. We recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect against unexpected circumstances.
Participation and Safety
All guests must complete and sign a liability waiver before participating in any tour. This waiver must be submitted to finalize your booking. Guests who do not complete the waiver will not be able to join the tour.
Weather and Operations
Tours operate in a variety of weather conditions, unless deemed unsafe by My XO Adventures. Should we cancel due to weather or unforeseen circumstances, guests will be offered the option to reschedule or receive a full refund.
Respect for the Land and Community
We kindly ask all guests to travel responsibly, respect local wildlife, and adhere to Leave No Trace principles. Our guides are here to ensure your safety and comfort while preserving the beauty of the regions we explore.
About operator:
My XO Adventures was founded for the endlessly curious travelers who believe every place holds a story worth listening to. Created by Daniel Milks, a lifelong explorer who has lived and wandered across the globe before finding home in the Black Hills of South Dakota, our tours are guided by a spirit of connection, curiosity, and respect for the land and its people.
We believe travel should open your eyes, not just fill your camera roll. That is why our experiences go far beyond sightseeing. We weave together wildlife, history, culture, geology, and ecology to reveal the layers of this extraordinary region, from the rugged peaks of the Black Hills to the haunting beauty of the Badlands. Many come to see Mount Rushmore, but what they find with us is so much more, a living and breathing landscape filled with stories of resilience, artistry, and awe.
Our work also encompasses the growing movement of noctourism, inviting guests to experience the landscape after the sun sets. The Sunset and Night Sky Tours of the Badlands are among our most celebrated experiences, offering a rare chance to witness the play of light and shadow, the rise of the stars, and the quiet majesty of this otherworldly place. These evenings are a blend of wonder, reflection, and pure natural beauty, creating memories that linger long after the night ends.
At the heart of everything we do is gratitude for this land, its people, and the chance to share it. We approach every tour with care, authenticity, and a genuine desire to help travelers connect more deeply with the places they visit.
Our guides are locals who love what they do and it shows. They bring knowledge, humor, and genuine care to every experience, creating tours that feel more like shared adventures than scripted outings. The recognition we have received, including the Great Place Award from Travel South Dakota in both 2021 and 2022, reflects not only our dedication to exceptional service but our commitment to community and conservation.
At My XO Adventures, you are not just on a tour; you are part of a story. One that invites you to connect, reflect, and discover the true spirit of South Dakota in ways that stay with you long after your journey ends.
Basic Information
- Duration: 9 hours
- Trip difficulty: Easy
- Category: Day Trips & Excursions
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