• Iron Mountain Road - Journey along the iconic Iron Mountain Road, celebrated for its twisting pigtail bridges and granite tunnels that perfectly frame Mount Rushmore in the distance. As the tour passes through these tunnels, the monument dramatically emerges in the stone opening — offering one of the most unforgettable views in the Black Hills — with opportunities to stop for photos and enjoy the scenery.
• 13000 SD-244 - Stand beneath the impressive 60-foot granite faces of Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt, and Lincoln. In the fresh morning light — when the crowds are fewer and the sculpture is beautifully illuminated — stroll the Presidential Trail, visit the Sculptor’s Studio, and learn about Gutzon Borglum’s vision, the engineering feats, and the brave workers who carved the mountain. If desired, try Thomas Jefferson’s original ice cream recipe before venturing further into the Black Hills. All this is experienced with a former national park ranger guide who considers Mount Rushmore home.
• Sylvan Lake - Arrive at Sylvan Lake — often considered one of the most stunning locations in the Black Hills — where dramatic granite formations rise around and within the water. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the shoreline, admiring the towering rock outcroppings that define this iconic setting. Fans of National Treasure: Book of Secrets may recognize the location — where Nicolas Cage searches for clues linked to the legendary Hall of Records and the myth of a hidden city of gold said to lie beneath the lake.
• 13389 US Hwy 16A - Continue along Needles Highway, weaving between sharp granite spires and passing through narrow tunnels carved directly through the rock. Scenic pullouts offer sweeping views, and mountain goats are occasionally seen along the cliffs.
• Custer - Take a midday break in the historic town of Custer and enjoy lunch at one of its locally owned restaurants, experiencing the charm of a classic Black Hills community. Guests may choose to dine in town or take their meal to go for a scenic picnic nearby. Lunch is selected and purchased individually, providing flexibility and personal choice.
• Crazy Horse Memorial - Visit Crazy Horse Memorial, the largest active mountain carving in the world. Explore the Indian Museum of North America and gain deeper insight into Lakota history, culture, and the ongoing work shaping the memorial. Experience the vision behind the memorial and the living traditions of the Northern Plains tribes.
• Mount Coolidge - Ascend Mount Coolidge for sweeping views across the Black Hills and surrounding prairie, as gate access and the day’s timing allow.
• Wildlife Loop Road - Travel the Wildlife Loop Road through Custer State Park, where bison roam the rolling prairie and pronghorn move across open grasslands. Keep an eye out for bighorn sheep, coyotes, prairie dogs, mule deer, magpies, and the park’s famous begging burros.

• Private transportation in a Jeep Wagoneer
• Pickup and drop-off from your lodging
• Former National Park Ranger guide
• Admission and entrance fees included
• All taxes and fees included
• Snacks and bottled water
• Carbonated beverages
• Parking fees

• Lunch
• Gratuities

Discover the Black Hills with a former National Park Ranger on a private, customized tour tailored to your interests. Explore areas where your guide has lived and worked as a ranger and conducted master’s research, offering firsthand knowledge of the region’s wildlife and landscapes, including the famous buffalo herds of Custer State Park. Visit Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse National Memorials, delving deeper than the usual stops with enriched stories of wildlife, geology, and history, along with scenic viewpoints and insights that most visitors miss. Entirely private, fully personalized, and led by someone who considers these parks home — this is a Black Hills experience unlike any other.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.