Mount Rushmore Self-Guided Audio Tour: Drive, Walk, and Discover the Black Hills
Explore Mount Rushmore at your own pace with a GPS‑activated audio guide that times history, geology, and local color to the landscape. Download the tour, follow turn‑by‑turn narration, and stitch together scenic drives and short hikes through the Black Hills.
The Experience
Before You Go
Download before you go
Use strong Wi‑Fi to download the Shaka Guide tour and offline maps so narration and directions work without cell service.
Start early to beat crowds
Arrive at opening or drive the Iron Mountain scenic loop at first light for framed views and easier parking at the Presidential Trailhead.
Respect wildlife and pullouts
Observe bison and other animals from your vehicle and use designated pullouts for photos to keep traffic moving and wildlife safe.
Keep devices charged
Bring a phone charger or power bank — GPS narration and map use drain batteries faster than casual use.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Norbeck Overlook on Iron Mountain Road for framed views of Mount Rushmore
- •Cosmos Mystery Cabin — a quirky roadside stop with optical illusions near Keystone
Wildlife
- •Bison
- •Elk
Conservation Note
The National Park Service manages the memorial; visitors should stay on designated trails, use pullouts for photography, and avoid disturbing wildlife to minimize impact.
Work on Mount Rushmore began in 1927 under sculptor Gutzon Borglum and continued into the early 1940s; the faces represent four U.S. presidents chosen to represent the nation’s birth, growth, development, and preservation.
What to Bring
Smartphone with app & headphonesEssential
Runs the audio tour and provides GPS‑activated narration and turn‑by‑turn directions.
Portable battery packEssential
Keeps your phone powered during long drives and multiple stops.
Comfortable walking shoesEssential
Supportive shoes handle short trails, rocky viewpoints, and steps near the memorial.
Layered jacket
Wind and shade on overlooks can be chilly even on otherwise warm days.
Common Questions
How is the tour delivered?
After booking you receive a redeem code for the Shaka Guide app; download the tour, save it offline, and launch it when you're ready to start.
Do I need cell service?
No — the tour and offline map can be downloaded ahead of time and used without continuous cell reception.
Is admission to Mount Rushmore included?
No — this audio tour is a guide only; check the National Park Service website for any park entrance fees, hours, or event schedules.
Is the visit wheelchair accessible?
The site has accessible routes and facilities; the tour notes wheelchair‑accessible viewpoints and paths but some short trails have stairs or uneven sections.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8–13 hours (self-paced)
Location
Keystone, South Dakota
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Light activity level; suitable for most visitors who can manage short walks (up to 1 mile) and stairs.
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