Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse are two of America’s most iconic monuments. Both of these landmarks are located in the Black Hills of South Dakota and have become popular tourist destinations for those looking for a glimpse of the rich history of the region. But is it possible to do both monuments in one day? The short answer is yes, but there is a lot more to consider when deciding if you should take on this ambitious challenge. In this article, we will explore the logistics of doing both Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse in one day, the pros and cons of doing so, and what other activities you can do in the area if you have time to spare.
Can You Do Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse in One Day?
The answer to this question is yes, it is possible to do both Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse in one day. This is because both of these attractions are located within a reasonable driving distance of each other, and if you plan your day properly, you can easily fit in a visit to both monuments. The drive between the two attractions is approximately 80 miles, so if you leave early and plan your route in advance, you can make it in a day.
Logistics of Doing Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse in One Day
If you are planning on doing Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse in one day, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, it is important to plan ahead and map out your route to ensure you arrive at both monuments on time. Additionally, it is important to factor in the time it will take to explore each attraction. Mount Rushmore can typically be explored in about an hour, while Crazy Horse can take up to two hours to explore. Finally, it is important to factor in the time it will take to drive between the two attractions, which is approximately 80 miles. All in all, you should plan to spend at least five hours on the road to do both Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse in one day.
Pros of Doing Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse in One Day
There are a few pros to doing Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse in one day. The first is that it is a great way to save time, as it eliminates the need to make multiple trips to the area. Additionally, it is a great way to experience two iconic monuments in the same day. Finally, it is a great way to maximize your time if you are short on vacation days or if you are simply looking to make the most out of your trip.
Cons of Doing Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse in One Day
There are also a few cons to doing Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse in one day. The first is that it can be quite tiring, as you will be spending most of the day in the car. Additionally, it can be challenging to fully appreciate both monuments in one day, as you will likely be rushing through both attractions in order to make it to both in time. Finally, it is important to keep in mind that there are other activities in the area that you may miss out on if you only have one day.
Other Activities Near Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse
If you have time to spare, there are a few other activities you can do in the area near Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse. Here is a list of some of the more popular attractions:
Mount Rushmore Area
- Custer State Park: This park is home to an abundance of wildlife and is a great place for hiking, biking, and camping.
- Crazy Horse Memorial: This memorial is still in progress and is dedicated to the Lakota leader Crazy Horse.
- Iron Mountain Road: This scenic drive is one of the most popular attractions in the area and is full of breathtaking views.
- Rushmore Tramway Adventures: This adventure park is full of thrilling rides and activities for the whole family.
Crazy Horse Area
- Wind Cave National Park: This park is home to the world’s longest cave system and is full of interesting tours and hikes.
- Jewel Cave National Monument: This monument is home to one of the longest caves in the world and is full of fascinating formations.
- Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway: This scenic byway is full of stunning views and is one of the most popular attractions in the area.
- Custer State Park: This park is home to an abundance of wildlife and is a great place for hiking, biking, and camping.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is possible to do both Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse in one day, but it is important to consider the pros and cons before undertaking this ambitious challenge. Additionally, if you have time to spare, it is worth exploring some of the other activities in the area, as there is a lot to see and do in the Black Hills of South Dakota.