Mount Rushmore & Badlands Day Adventure Tour

9 hours
Rapid City, USA

About this activity

Experience Mount Rushmore and Badlands National Park on a scenic, wildlife-filled day tour.

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

Full 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.

Know before you go

  • 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 policy

Free cancellation up to 14 days before the activity starts

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.

Reviews

Google
Laurie Osteen
Sep 2026
5.0

Dan was the best ! He knew everything about the Badlands ands was a very fun guy !

Google
Bette Barlow
Sep 2026
5.0

Logan was a fantastic guide. Extremely knowledgeable, personable and accommodating. We toured 3 days with him and saw the Badlands, Needles Eye, Devils Tower, Mt Rushmore, Crazy Horse and the Black Hills, along with Custer State Park. Absolutely went above and beyond to insure we saw everything possible in our time together. Would highly recommend.

Google
Nancy Okal
Sep 2026
5.0

My sisters and I booked My XO Adventures for two tours on our recent trip to South Dakota. The service provided by Amy, Dan, and Daniel was exceptional, from start to finish. The tours exceeded our expectations. This was my second trip to the Badlands/Black Hills and I came away feeling that I was experiencing everything for the first time due to their knowledge and attention to detail. Both Daniel and Dan even took photos for us and shared them with us the next day! I highly recommend My XO Adventures—five stars is not enough!