About This Tour
The iconic parks and monuments of the American West are vast, and seeing them on a tight schedule can be a logistical challenge. This express tour is your solution for an action-packed adventure from Rapid City. We eliminate the long drives and planning stress, guiding you directly to the highlights. Experience the awe of Mount Rushmore and more in one seamless journey.
Trip Highlights
- A fast-paced express tour of America's most iconic parks.
- Let us handle the long drives on this action-packed adventure.
- Perfect for travelers wanting to see the absolute essentials on schedule.
Itinerary
Welcome to the Black Hills! Upon arrival in Rapid City, our express adventure begins immediately by heading to Badlands National Park. You will witness the stunning, otherworldly landscapes of dramatic spires and deep canyons. We will time our visit perfectly to watch a spectacular sunset paint the incredible rock formations with brilliant color, a truly unforgettable introduction to the region.
Today we visit the iconic Mount Rushmore National Memorial, getting an up-close view of the colossal tribute to American democracy. Afterwards, we’ll drive the scenic Wildlife Loop Road in Custer State Park, which is home to vast herds of bison, pronghorn, and playful prairie dogs. It is a perfect day combining a man-made marvel with stunning natural beauty.
Our journey continues to the Crazy Horse Memorial, another monumental mountain carving still in progress that honors Native American culture and history. In the afternoon, we will take a scenic drive through the breathtaking Spearfish Canyon. We will stop to admire beautiful waterfalls like Bridal Veil Falls and enjoy the stunning views of the canyon's thousand-foot-high limestone cliffs.
For our final adventure, we step back in time in the historic town of Deadwood, a legendary gold rush settlement. You will walk the same streets as Wild West legends like Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane. After soaking in the Old West history, we will make the short journey back to Rapid City for your express departure.
Included/Exclude
The Cost Includes
- Professional Driver and Guide
- Private Air-Conditioned Van
- Nightly Hotel Accommodation
- All Park Transportation
The Cost Excludes
- Flights to Rapid City
- National Park Entrance Fees
- All Daily Meals
- Driver and Guide Gratuities
Tour Plan
Accommodation is provided in comfortable and well-located tourist-class hotels, typically in the 2 to 3-star range. You can expect private rooms with en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi access. We select our partner hotels to ensure they provide a clean, safe, and restful environment after a full day of exploring the parks and monuments.
As this is an “Express” tour designed to showcase the best of the region efficiently, you should expect a fair amount of driving. Daily travel time can range from 3 to 5 hours in our comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. However, this is always broken up by frequent stops for sightseeing, photo opportunities, short walks, and comfort breaks along the way.
To provide you with the most flexibility and choice, only breakfasts are typically included with your hotel stay. Lunches and dinners are not included in the tour price. We will make stops at towns and locations that have a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to local restaurants, allowing you to eat according to your own budget and preferences.
The weather in the Black Hills can be highly variable. We strongly recommend packing layers of clothing, including t-shirts, a warmer fleece or sweater, and a lightweight waterproof jacket. Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes are absolutely essential for exploring the parks. Also, be sure to bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, as the sun can be strong.
