Twilight Tour: Custer State Park & Mt Rushmore Lighting Ceremony

Experience the stunning beauty of the Black Hills on this unforgettable private afternoon & evening tour, designed to highlight the region’s most scenic drives & end with the Mt Rushmore Lighting Cere

Experience the stunning beauty of the Black Hills on this unforgettable private afternoon & evening tour, designed to highlight the region’s most scenic drives & end with the Mt Rushmore Lighting Ceremony. First, we visit the tranquil Sylvan Lake, nestled among pine-covered hills & dramatic rock formations. We continue with a picturesque journey along the legendary Needles Hwy, where towering granite spires, narrow tunnels, & sweeping views create an unforgettable drive. You’ll have plenty of time for photo stops, short walks, and commentary from your knowledgeable local guide. Then, travel the engineering marvel of Iron Mt Rd, known for its pigtail bridges, scenic switchbacks, & tunnels that perfectly frame Mt Rushmore in the distance. We arrive at Mt Rushmore with time to explore, then as night falls, gather at the amphitheater for the Lighting Ceremony—a patriotic & heartfelt experience that includes a short film, tribute to veterans, & the illumination of the iconic carvings.

From: $0.00

Location: Rapid City

What's Included

Community Discussion

Q&A

Q: What's the best time of year to do the Twilight Tour? Is it busy in the summer?

A: Summer is definitely the busiest time, especially in July when the weather is best. If you want fewer crowds, consider going in late spring or early fall, when the colors are gorgeous and the weather is still pleasant. Just keep in mind, the Lighting Ceremony is more impressive when it's fully dark, so summer evenings are great for that.

Q: Are kids allowed on this tour? What's the age limit?

A: Yes, kids are absolutely welcome on the Twilight Tour! There’s no strict age limit, but it's really suited for kids aged 6 and up since there’s some walking involved. The guide is super friendly and makes the experience enjoyable for all ages. Plus, they’ll love the Mt Rushmore Lighting Ceremony!

Q: Can we reschedule if the weather is bad? How does that work?

A: Yes, you can definitely reschedule if the weather turns sour! The tour company has a flexible policy for weather-related cancellations. Just make sure to call them in advance, and they'll help you find a new date that works. They’ll also monitor the forecasts closely to keep you updated.

Discussions

Just did the Twilight Tour and it was AMAZING!

I just got back from the Twilight Tour at Custer State Park and Mt Rushmore, and wow, what a day! We stopped at Sylvan Lake first; it was so peaceful and perfect for pics. The Needles Hwy was super cool with those narrow tunnels and granite spires everywhere. Ending with the Lighting Ceremony was the cherry on top! If you’re considering this as a gift, DO IT! It’s worth every penny.

Planning to gift the Twilight Tour, any tips?

So, I'm thinking about gifting the Twilight Tour to my parents for their anniversary. They love nature and history, so this seems perfect. Any tips on what to pack or how to make the day extra special? I want them to have the best experience!