Mount Rushmore & Great Plains Tour Bundle

Cosmos Mystery Area - In 1952, two college students stumbled upon peculiar happenings at 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.

Keystone - Once a gold mine outpost, Keystone later became the home base for the artisans who carved Mount Rushmore. Now, it’s a vibrant resort town!

Keystone offers a taste of the gold rush era with restaurants, gift shops, and 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.

Mount Rushmore National Memorial - 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!

Needles Eye - The Needle’s Eye Tunnel is 8 feet 4 inches wide by 12 feet high. It was carved through a towering granite spire and 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.

Custer State Park - 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.

Wildlife Loop Road - Custer State Park’s 18-mile Wildlife Loop is an unforgettable animal encounter. This scenic drive winds past rolling prairies, forests, and canyons. Be sure to pack your binoculars! The star attraction is the park’s 1,300-strong bison herd, often grazing in the meadows. Keep your eyes peeled for other residents like elk, deer, pronghorn antelope, and even the occasional bighorn sheep or burros. Remember, stay in your car and observe from a distance – these are wild animals!

Custer - Stroll down historic Main Street lined with shops, restaurants, and art galleries. Take a ride on the 1880 Steam Train for a nostalgic journey through the Black Hills.

Crazy Horse Memorial - This colossal work in progress depicts Oglala Lakota warrior Crazy Horse on horseback, honoring his fight for his people’s freedom. Started in 1948, it’s the world’s largest mountain carving underway. At the visitor center, you can explore the Indian Museum of North America to delve into the rich history and culture of the Lakota people. Catch traditional Lakota dance performances or browse authentic Native American arts and crafts. Special events throughout the year offer a deeper dive into their heritage.

Iron Mountain Road - Cruise the scenic Iron Mountain Road, a 17-mile adventure connecting Custer State Park to Mount Rushmore. Prepare for twists and turns with breathtaking Black Hills views. Keep an eye out for the Doane Robinson and Scovel Johnson tunnels. Time your drive to see Mount Rushmore framed perfectly through the openings! Pigtail Bridges: These ingenious structures loop the road back under itself, allowing for steeper climbs and showcasing engineering marvels.

Norbeck Overlook - Perched along the Iron Mountain Scenic Drive, the Norbeck Overlook offers a free glimpse of Mount Rushmore’s grandeur. This short detour rewards you with a breathtaking vista of the Black Hills, with the iconic presidents’ faces peeking above the pines in the distance. It’s a perfect spot to snap photos and appreciate the scale of Mount Rushmore without the entrance fee. For a closer look, continue your journey on the scenic drive towards the monument itself.

Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Maltese Cross Cabin - Step back in time at the Maltese Cross Cabin in Theodore Roosevelt National Park. This historic log cabin was once a temporary home for the young Theodore Roosevelt, before he became president. Explore the restored cabin and imagine Roosevelt’s life as a cowboy rancher. Exhibits showcase his personal effects, offering a glimpse into his early days spent ranching in the rugged Badlands. It’s a fascinating look into the life of the conservationist-turned-president who shaped American history.

South Unit Visitor Center - The Theodore Roosevelt National Park’s South Unit Visitor Center in Medora, North Dakota, is your one-stop shop for park adventures. Chat with park rangers for the latest trail conditions, animal migration patterns, and weather. Browse the gift shop for souvenirs from this epic adventure through the North Dakota Badlands. And learn more about the man himself, President Theodore Roosevelt.

Prairie Dog Metropolis - Imagine a vast grassland dotted with hundreds of burrows – that’s your cue! These social critters, also called black-tailed prairie dogs, pop out to greet you with barks and chirps. Be sure to stay on designated trails and observe from afar – these playful creatures are wild! It’s a fun and unique opportunity to witness a bustling prairie dog community in their natural habitat.

Peaceful Valley Ranch - This historic dude ranch, once a bustling center of ranch life, offers a glimpse into the past. Explore the restored ranch house and stables, remnants of a bygone era. While horseback riding is no longer available, scenic trails wind through the ranch, allowing you to experience the beauty of the park on foot. You may also get a glimpse of the famous Wild Horses, who often hang out here.

Boicourt Overlook Trail - This short, paved path is perfect for all ages. Walk alongside a valley brimming with the park’s colorful Badlands formations. Reach the end of the paved trail for a scenic overlook. Feeling adventurous? Continue on a short, unpaved section for an even more dramatic view of the Badlands sprawling out before you. Keep your eyes peeled for grazing bison and soaring birds of prey as you soak in the park’s beauty.

Buck Hill Trail - This short, but steep path is an out-and-back trek. Imagine a winding path ascending a butte, with stunning views of the surrounding Badlands unfolding with every step. Reach the top for panoramic vistas of the entire South Unit, from Painted Canyon to beyond. Spot wild horses or bison grazing in the distance. Remember, proper footwear is essential, and enjoy the sense of accomplishment at the summit!

Scoria Point Overlook - This easily accessible stop offers panoramic views unlike any other. Imagine a landscape painted in hues of red, yellow, and gray – evidence of volcanic activity that baked the surrounding earth long ago. Spot the coal seams that once caught fire, adding another layer to the park’s geologic story. Keep your eyes peeled for bighorn sheep grazing on the cliffs, adding a touch of life to the dramatic scene. It’s a perfect spot to capture the essence of the Badlands in a single breathtaking vista.

Buckhorn Trail - This challenging, 11-mile loop winds through vast prairies and dramatic ravines. Be prepared for sections that can be difficult to follow, especially after rain. Hike alongside wildflower meadows and spot bison grazing in the distance. While some sections follow the park’s scenic drive, offering glimpses of fellow explorers, much of the trail allows you to immerse yourself in the park’s quiet beauty. Remember, this is for experienced hikers with proper navigation skills and plenty of water for a remote adventure.

Cannonball Concretions Pullout - Cannonball Concretions pullout surprises you with geological oddities. Imagine giant, spherical boulders scattered across the landscape – these aren’t errant cannonballs, but ancient mysteries! Stop and explore these fascinating sandstone concretions, formed millions of years ago when minerals cemented sand particles around a core. Informative signs explain their formation as you marvel at these natural wonders contrasting with the rugged Badlands backdrop. It’s a quick stop with a big impact, perfect for a photo opportunity or a break on your scenic drive.

Caprock-Coulee Trail - This 0.8-mile nature walk turns into a moderate 4.3-mile loop that offers something for everyone. Start by following a scenic trail through a narrow canyon, teeming with plant and animal life. Ascend for breathtaking views of the Little Missouri River Valley. The trail winds along grassy buttes and dramatic bluffs, showcasing the park’s geologic wonders. Keep your eyes peeled for bison and other wildlife roaming the plains below. Remember, choose the clockwise direction for a more gradual climb, and enjoy this classic Badlands adventure.

Oxbow Overlook - Stand in awe at Theodore Roosevelt National Park’s North Unit’s crown jewel, Oxbow Overlook. This easily accessible viewpoint offers a panoramic vista unlike any other. Gaze upon the Little Missouri River curving dramatically in a perfect oxbow, a classic geologic wonder. Interpretive signs explain the river’s story. For a closer look, embark on the easy, 0.2-mile Sperati Point Trail that leads to a higher viewpoint for even more stunning river and Badlands views. Oxbow Overlook is a must-see, offering a glimpse of the park’s beauty and the power of natural forces.

Badlands National Park

Minuteman Missile National Historic Site - Step back into Cold War tensions at Minuteman Missile National Historic Site in South Dakota. Explore a decommissioned launch facility and missile silo. Tour the Launch Control Facility, a once-top-secret underground bunker where crews could have fired Minuteman II missiles. See a real missile up close at the Delta-09 silo, a chilling reminder of the era’s nuclear threat. The park preserves history to help us understand the dangers and importance of nuclear deterrence.

Big Badlands Overlook - A short, accessible trail leads to a viewing platform where you can soak in the dramatic landscape. Layers of colorful rock formations, sculpted by wind and erosion, stretch into the distance. The eastern wall of the Badlands, known as the “Wall,” dominates the view, showcasing reddish hues of the Brule Formation. It’s a perfect introduction to the park’s striking beauty, ideal for capturing panoramic photos or simply marveling at the stark yet captivating scenery.

Door Trail - A wheelchair-accessible boardwalk leads you on a quarter-mile journey. Pass through a natural opening in the rock formations, nicknamed “The Door.” This scenic passageway opens up to a breathtaking vista of the Badlands’ rugged landscape. Beyond the boardwalk, a more challenging, unmarked trail continues for adventurous hikers, offering a closer look at the eroded spires and canyons.

Notch Trail - Embark on an adventurous hike through the Badlands on the Notch Trail. This 1.5-mile round-trip trek offers more than scenic views. Traverse a canyon and conquer a thrilling wooden ladder section, adding a touch of excitement. The “Notch” itself awaits at the end, a dramatic viewpoint overlooking the White River Valley. Remember, this moderately challenging trail with uneven terrain and heights might not be for everyone, but the reward is a breathtaking panorama of the Badlands’ rugged beauty.

Castle Trail - This 5-mile, point-to-point adventure takes you past prairies and dramatic rock formations, nicknamed “castles.” Unlike most Badlands trails, it’s relatively flat, perfect for moderate fitness levels. Hike through open fields, marvel at colorful rock formations, and keep your eyes peeled for wildlife like bighorn sheep and prairie dogs. Remember, it’s an out-and-back trail, so plan accordingly.

Ben Reifel Visitor Center - The Ben Reifel Visitor Center is the main hub of Badlands National Park. Inside, you’ll find exhibits showcasing the park’s geology, fossils, and cultural history. Watch a park film to get oriented, or chat with rangers for trip planning tips. The center also features a fossil preparation lab (sometimes with a scientist working!), a bookstore, and restrooms. It’s fully accessible and a great place to start your Badlands adventure.

Fossil Exhibit Trail - While the Fossil Exhibit Trail at Badlands National Park won’t show you actual fossils in the ground, it’s a great starting point for learning about the park’s rich paleontology. This short, accessible boardwalk loop features informative displays with replicas of ancient creatures. Walk through geologic time, illustrated by the colorful rock layers, and discover the fascinating fossils found here, from saber-toothed cats to giant mammals. It’s a perfect introduction to the Badlands’ prehistoric past for visitors of all ages.

Bigfoot Pass Overlook - This easily accessible stop commemorates Chief Spotted Elk (Bigfoot) and his Lakota band who used this route fleeing US troops in 1890. Stand on the viewing platform and soak in the vast expanse of the Badlands, layered rock formations sculpted by wind and time. The overlook serves as a reminder of the area’s human history alongside its natural wonders.

Prairie Wind Overlook - Prairie Wind Overlook offers a serene change of pace. A short boardwalk leads you to a viewing platform overlooking a vast expanse of native prairie grass, swaying gently in the wind. This overlook showcases the park’s rare, protected mixed-grass prairie ecosystem, a vital habitat for wildlife. Imagine yourself transported back in time, surrounded by a sea of green stretching towards the horizon. It’s a peaceful spot for reflection and appreciating the park’s diverse landscapes.

Burns Basin Overlook - This accessible stop features a short trail and boardwalk leading to a viewing platform. The overlook gets its name from an old homestead nestled in the basin below, once used by sheepherder Wilson Burns. Unfold before you are vast rolling plains stretching towards the Buffalo Gap National Grassland. Keep an eye out for rattlesnakes, grazing bison, or soaring birds of prey. Burns Basin Overlook offers a chance to appreciate the Badlands’ scenic beauty beyond the dramatic spires, showcasing its connection to the wider prairie ecosystem.

Homestead Overlook - This accessible stop offers a unique perspective. Imagine standing on the edge of the Badlands, gazing out at the labyrinth of colorful rock formations carved by millions of years of erosion. But look closer, and you’ll also see the vast green expanse of the prairie stretching out in the distance. This contrasting view reflects the park’s diverse landscapes and its human history. Homestead Overlook showcases the challenging beauty of the Badlands while hinting at the lives of those who attempted to tame this unforgiving land.

Yellow Mounds Overlook - Yellow Mounds Overlook stands out for its vibrant hues. This easily accessible spot offers a different perspective on the park’s geology. Unlike the usual reddish spires, here you’ll be greeted by colorful layers of yellow, orange, and beige mounds. Informational signs explain how ancient seas and decaying plants created these unique formations. The overlook provides a clear view for appreciating the contrasting colors and the vastness of the Badlands landscape.

Cliff Shelf Nature Trail - This 0.5-mile loop offers big rewards despite its ease. Walk along boardwalks and climb a few stairs to reach a viewing platform. Be rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the Badlands’ vastness, colorful rock formations stretching towards the horizon. The trail also delves through a unique juniper forest, a refreshing change from the typical Badlands landscape. It’s a perfect introduction to the park’s beauty, ideal for all ages and fitness levels.

Ancient Hunters Overlook - This scenic spot isn’t just about views. Imagine looking out over a dense fossil bed – evidence of ancient bison hunters who drove herds over the edge millions of years ago. Informative displays tell the story of these paleo-Indians. While the geologic slump creates a slightly greener area with abundant trees, the rugged landscape reminds you of the Badlands’ harsh beauty. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the park’s prehistoric past and a testament to the ingenuity of early inhabitants.

Pinnacles Overlook - The highest point in Badlands National Park! This easily accessible stop offers a panoramic vista like no other. Imagine a vast expanse stretching before you – a maze of colorful rock formations, sculpted by wind and time, unfolds towards the distant Black Hills. Keep an eye out for bighorn sheep grazing on the slopes, adding to the dramatic scene. It’s a perfect spot for photographers or anyone wanting to capture the essence of the Badlands in one stunning view.

Wall Drug - Wall Drug Store is more than a store – it’s a roadside legend. Forget fancy malls, this cowboy-themed labyrinth holds everything from souvenirs and snacks to a pharmacy and restaurants. Made famous for its catchy signs promising “free ice water” miles away, it’s a quirky must-stop for travelers. Enjoy a home-style meal, browse Western gifts, and snap a photo with the giant brontosaurus sculpture. It’s a fun and kitschy experience that captures the spirit of South Dakota exploration.

• Tours NEVER expire
• Freedom to explore at your own pace
• Offline map (no wifi or data needed)
• Turn-by-turn directions using GPS
• Hours of audio narration with stories, travel tips and music
• Audio narration that plays automatically as you drive

• Meals and Refreshments
• Private Transportation
• Entrance Fees
• Parking Fees
• Cosmos Mystery Area: $14 per adult
• Custer State Park: $20 per vehicle

Experience the marvels of the American heartland with our Mount Rushmore & Great Plains Audio Tour Bundle! Be amazed by the legendary Mount Rushmore, as our guides share intriguing tales about the presidents etched into the mountain and the history of this monumental endeavor. Then, traverse the expansive Great Plains, discovering vast prairies, historic sites, and diverse wildlife. Delve into the Native American history, pioneer trails, and natural splendor that characterize this area. Ideal for families, history enthusiasts, and adventure lovers, this bundle provides an engaging and educational adventure. Just download, plug in your headphones, and embark on an extraordinary journey through Mount Rushmore and the Great Plains!

Download the Shaka Guide app to access the purchased tours

• Mount Rushmore Starting Points: • Rapid City • Three Forks • Highway 16 • Highway 385 • Highway 87
• Theodore Roosevelt Starting Points: • I-94 E (Sentinel Butte) • Highway 85 (Northbound) • Highway 85 (Southbound) • Dickinson, North Dakota
• Badlands Starting Points: • Wasta, SD • Kadoka, SD • Conata, SD • Interior, SD
• Get Started Easily: • Book Your Tour: Receive a confirmation and easy instructions via email. • Download the App: Follow the simple steps in your email. • Redeem the Tour: Use the redeem code in your email to redeem the tour in the app. • Prepare Ahead: Download the tour using strong Wi-Fi.
• Begin Your Journey: • Select Your Tour: Go to the My Stuff tab in the Shaka Guide app to launch the tour. • Start the Tour: Select the tour starting point and follow the GPS instructions. • Follow Shaka Guide: Stick to the suggested route and speed for the best experience.
• Why Choose Our Audio Tour: • Cost-Efficient: One tour for the entire vehicle—no per-person fees! • Ultimate Flexibility: Start, pause, and resume on your schedule. • Convenience: Use the tour any day, over multiple days if needed.
• Top Features: • Hands-Free: The tour works automatically - GPS-activated stories, directions, and music play as you drive for a seamless experience. • Works Offline: No need for continuous wifi or data. • Reliable Support: Get help via call, chat, or email.
• Private and Personalized: • Crowd-Free: Enjoy a private tour with just your group. • Customizable Stops: Pick the stops you want and skip the ones you don’t!
• The Ultimate Guided Tour: • Detailed Itinerary: Includes travel tips and recommendations. • Engaging Narration: Captivating stories and history.
• What Our Users Say: • “A fantastic way to explore! Easy to use and very informative.” • “Loved the flexibility to stop and go as we pleased. Highly recommend!”

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