Mount Rushmore Self-Guided Audio Tour Guide
3.5 / 5 · 6 traveler reviews
Discover Mount Rushmore National Memorial with an app-based, self-guided audio tour that brings its history, stories, and larger-than-life sculptures to life. There’s no in-person guide—your phone is your guide as you explore the memorial and learn about its four presidents, construction, artistry, and history. Learn about the incredible artistry and engineering behind this monumental achievement, as well as the legends and lore surrounding it. Perfect for families, history buffs, and curious travelers, our audio tour adds a delightful twist to your visit. Simply download, plug in your headphones, and embark on a memorable adventure through Mount Rushmore! "Download the Shaka Guide app to access the purchased tours"
Your experience
Stop 1
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.
Stop 2
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.
Stop 3
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!
Stop 4
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.
Stop 5
Five-site picnic area with accessible bathrooms and scenic overlooks of the Black Elk Wilderness, Mount Rushmore, and the Black Elk Peak
Stop 6
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.
Stop 7
"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.
Stop 8
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.
Stop 9
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.
Stop 10
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.
Stop 11
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.
Stop 12
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.
What’s included
- Take the tour when you want
- Tours NEVER expire
- Freedom to explore at your own pace
- Access to the Mount Rushmore National Memorial Tour in the Shaka Guide app
- Tour Start is Customizable
- Offline map (no wifi or data needed)
- Tour highlights with activity and restaurant recommendations
- Turn-by-turn directions using GPS
- Audio narration that plays automatically as you drive
Not included
- Private transportation
- Meals and refreshment
- Parking Fees
- In-person tour guide
Meeting and pickup
The tour starts south of Rapid City, South Dakota.
Before you go
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Additional Starting Points: Three Forks, Highway 16, Highway 385 and Highway 87
- Travelers must have a smartphone compatible with the Shaka Guide app.
- The app must be downloaded and the tour redeemed before arrival.
- Strong Wi-Fi or cellular data is required to download the tour in advance.
- Location services (GPS) must be enabled on the device
- Travelers are responsible for securing any required entrance passes, reservations, or permits before starting
- Best visited May–September — peak season with full access; visit early morning or late afternoon in summer to avoid crowds; winter may see road and attraction closures
- Mount Rushmore hours vary by season — check NPS website before visiting
- Do not approach or feed wildlife
- Pack layers — mountain temperatures change quickly
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Check the policy for your selected date and option before booking.
Check dates and book on Viator →Confirm the meeting point, inclusions, cancellation policy and final price on Viator. We may earn a commission from your booking.