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
Iqbal Amin
Aug 2026
5.0

We had an amazing trip to Badlands National Park in South Dakota on 8/7/26. It would not be possible for us to appreciate the breathtaking sights in that magical park if we were driving on our own. We were fortunate to have Daniel of My XO Adventures as a specialist guide with us. With his depth of knowledge on the physical features of the area, the flora and fauna combined with his caring hospitality allowed us to have an immersing experience in the park.

Google
Erin Murphy
Aug 2026
5.0

I have no words for how amazing XO Adventures is. Our group of 2 families - a total of 9 people including 5 children - took a sunset and golden hour photography tour that included night sky stargazing in the Badlands, and it was absolutely incredible. We will remember the experience for the rest of our lives. Daniel and his right hand man Dan are true gentlemen and so knowledgeable. Great storytellers and very connected to and respectful of the land. We learned so much about the Badlands and saw so much beautiful wildlife. They also provided us with incredible professional-quality photos of our tour. We also got to experience (and shop at) the famous Wall Drug on the way! And the icing on the cake was the zero gravity chairs and warm sleeping bags they provided to stargaze in the Badlands at night, the beauty of which these city slickers have never seen. Thank you Daniel and Dan for making our trip to beautiful South Dakota one we will never forget.

Google
Mo Gindratt
Aug 2026
5.0

Badlands Wildlife and Sunset Tour with My XO Adventures was one of the highlights of our trip to South Dakota. Everything was seamless and personable. Aimee was very helpful in booking our tour, coordinating pickup time while taking into account possible rain showers, and ordering our boxed lunches. Our tour guide, Dan, was amazing. You can tell Dan genuinely loves what he does. He shared many interesting stories about the area's history, geology, wildlife and hidden gems. We made a quick stop at Wall Drug Store and we never felt rushed. Dan knew exactly where to stop for the most breathtaking views and to find all kinds of wildlife. We even enjoyed a lightening show. Thank you Dan, and the team at My XO Adventures, for creating such a special memory for our family!