South Dakota Icon: Visiting Mount Rushmore At Night

Table of Contents

• Evening Lighting Ceremony
• Night Activities
• Attractions and Facilities
• Exploring the Park
• Additional Information
• The Four Presidents
• Frequently Asked Questions

Mount Rushmore National Memorial, located in the Black Hills region of South Dakota, is breathtaking during the day, but have you considered experiencing it at night? As the sun sets and the stars twinkle above, a whole new perspective unfolds before your eyes.

A favorite nighttime activity at the monument is the Evening Lighting Ceremony. During this event, the faces of the four presidents are lit up against the dark sky. You can enjoy this special experience from the Friday of the Memorial Day weekend until September 30th each year at the memorial. 

Aside from the lighting ceremony, you can take advantage of the park’s attractions and facilities for relaxed nighttime exploration and learn more about the history behind these iconic sculptures.

Key Takeaways

• Mount Rushmore at night offers a unique experience with illuminated presidential faces
• The Evening Lighting Ceremony is a popular night event from Memorial Day weekend to September 30th
• Visitors can explore the park and its attractions for a memorable nighttime adventure

Evening Lighting Ceremony

Ceremony Schedule

The Mount Rushmore Evening Lighting Ceremony is a breathtaking event held every year from the Friday of the Memorial Day weekend to September 30th. The ceremony begins at 9 p.m. from May to early August and at 8 p.m. from early August to September 30th. To make the most of your visit, arrive at Mount Rushmore a few hours before dusk.

Armed Forces Recognition

The Evening Lighting Ceremony is a special event that shows respect to the American armed forces and gives a heartfelt tribute. A park ranger shares a short speech about why the monument is important and tells the story behind the carved faces. Also, the program lets us recognize the bravery of active and retired military members.

So, if you’re planning a visit to Mount Rushmore, try to stay for the evening ceremony. It’s a great time to appreciate the beauty of the monument and honor those who have served in the armed forces.

Night Activities

Scenic Drive

One of the best ways to experience Mount Rushmore at night is by taking a scenic drive through the Black Hills of South Dakota. During your visit to the area, consider also exploring the area by car to capture views from different angles. If you plan your visit in early August, you will likely enjoy pleasant weather and less crowded roads.

Late Night Viewing

Mount Rushmore comes alive in a whole new way when viewed under the stars. The Evening Lighting Ceremony is held from May to September, with starting times of 9 p.m. in May through early August, and 8 p.m. in the later part of August through September. During this event, the presidential faces are illuminated against the night sky.

In order to fully appreciate the majestic sculpture, arrive at the parking lot early. This will give you ample time to find a convenient spot and avoid any potential transit times. Once you’ve parked, take a short walk to the viewing area, where you can get a closer look at Mount Rushmore.

Make the most of your nighttime visit by experimenting with different locations to observe the sculpture. Feel free to explore various angles and distances to get the perfect photo.

Attractions and Facilities

Grand View Terrace

When you visit Mount Rushmore at night, one of the top places to be is the Grand View Terrace. It’s situated right near the Avenue of Flags, giving you a fantastic view of the National Monument. The terrace is open year-round, making it accessible for your visit.

Remember to go to the Evening Lighting Ceremony between late May and September. During the evening, you’ll witness a special sight: the illuminated faces of the presidents. This ceremony happens at the amphitheater in the Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center.

Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center

The Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center is an excellent spot to start your night-time adventure at Mount Rushmore. It hosts the Evening Lighting Ceremony mentioned earlier, and it’s also where you’ll find valuable information about the site, including the legacy of sculptor Gutzon Borglum.

Visiting the national monument doesn’t require an entrance fee, but parking is not free. There’s a parking structure available for your convenience, ensuring you have a place to leave your vehicle while you explore.

Don’t forget to stroll on the Presidential Trail near the mountain. It’s a fantastic way to see the monument up close and feel its greatness. Just remember, the trail can take a while, so plan your time wisely.

Exploring the Park

Presidential Trail Hike

Visiting Mount Rushmore at night offers a unique experience, and one of the highlights is the Presidential Trail Hike. This short trail allows you to get up close to the famous faces of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. 

The hike is approximately 0.6 miles long and is suitable for all ages, making it a perfect activity for young children and the whole family. The trail is well-lit at night, providing a different perspective of the sculptures as they are illuminated against the dark sky.

Sculptors Studio

If you can arrive a bit early, another must-visit attraction at Mount Rushmore is the Sculptors Studio. This historic studio was once used by the famous sculptor Gutzon Borglum, who created the iconic monument. 

Here, you can learn about the creative process, techniques, and tools used to carve the colossal faces on the mountain. The studio also displays the original plaster model of the monument, offering an insight into the detailed planning that went into creating this national treasure.

Additional Information

Best Time to Visit

For the best overall experience, try to plan your visit during the Evening Lighting Ceremony, which takes place from late May through September. The ceremony starts at 9 p.m. between May and early August, and at 8 p.m. from early August until late September.

Before the lighting ceremony, you can catch a 14-minute film at the Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center amphitheater, detailing the history and significance of the monument. If you have time during the day, explore the park and indulge in a treat from the ice cream shop.

Nearby Accommodations

When planning your trip, you’ll want to arrange accommodations close to Mount Rushmore. Consider staying at the Rushmore Express Inn for a convenient and comfortable lodging option. The hotel is located just a short drive from the monument, making it easy to access both daytime and nighttime activities.

Check out this Complete Guide for more information to help you make the most of your trip to Mount Rushmore National Memorial. You’ll find the best things to do, the closest airport, and other essential details to ensure you have a memorable experience exploring the carved faces of Mount Rushmore.

The Four Presidents

When you visit Mount Rushmore at night, you’ll be in awe of the breathtaking illumination of the colossal sculptures of George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Thomas Jefferson, and Theodore Roosevelt. These presidents were selected by sculptor Gutzon Borglum to symbolize significant moments in American history.

Washington, the first President, established a strong foundation for the country. Jefferson, a brilliant thinker and writer, authored the Declaration of Independence. Lincoln held the nation together during its darkest hour – the Civil War – and pursued the abolition of slavery. Roosevelt, a conservationist at heart, championed the protection of natural resources.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best activities to do around Mount Rushmore at night?

When you go to Mount Rushmore at night, you’ll have a special time. One thing you shouldn’t miss is the Evening Lighting Ceremony. It has a talk by a ranger, a flag-lowering ceremony, and the monument gets lit up.

Is there a lighting ceremony at Mount Rushmore and how long does it last?

Yes, Mount Rushmore has a lighting ceremony. It happens every night from the Friday of Memorial Day weekend to September 30th. The ceremony lasts about 45 minutes.

Are there any fireworks shows near Mount Rushmore at night?

While there might be local fireworks shows in the surrounding area, there are no fireworks shows directly at Mount Rushmore due to wildfire concerns and the protection of the monument. It is important to check local listings for any nearby fireworks events.

What time does the evening program at Mount Rushmore begin?

The evening program at Mount Rushmore starts at different times depending on the season. From May to early August, the ceremony begins at 9 p.m. From early August to September 30th, it starts at 8 p.m.

How much does the lighting ceremony cost?

The lighting ceremony at Mount Rushmore is free of charge. However, there is a parking fee, which is not covered by the National Parks Pass or Golden Eagle Pass. The parking fee goes toward maintaining the facility and monument.

Are the evening hours different from the daytime hours at Mount Rushmore?

Yes, Mount Rushmore’s evening hours are different from daytime hours. The Park and Facilities (Information Center and restrooms) have specific operating hours. Though some facilities may close earlier, you can still appreciate the beautiful view of the illuminated monument at night.

How to get to Mount Rushmore National Memorial?