Find the answers to the most frequently asked questions about Mount Rushmore National Monument
Q:Who thought of and created Mount Rushmore?
A:Doane Robinson, the official historian for South Dakota was contemplating on ideas to bring in more tourists into the Black Hills area. Robinson originally thought of American West heroes to be carved into the granite, such as Lewis and Clark and Buffalo Bill Cody. In 1924 Robinson wrote to Gutzon Borglum a sculptor who had already been sculpting on large scale granite mountains. Borglum visited South Dakota and choose Mount Rushmore as the spot for the sculptures. Borglum was so impressed by the mountain that he wanted to make a monument to be of national interest not just regional. “I want to create a monument so inspiring that people from all over America will be drawn to come and look and go home better citizens,” said Borglum, in 1927. In October of 1927 Borglum and his son plus 400 men started working on the sculptures.
Q:Where is Mt. Rushmore located?
A:Mount Rushmore is located in South Dakota, 23 miles southwest of Rapid City.
Q:How long did it take to build Mount Rushmore?
A:14 years – from October 4, 1927 - October 31,1941
Q:Are the faces eroding on Mount Rushmore?
A:No, the estimated erosion rate is 1 inch every 10,000 years.
Q:Who is the mountain named after?
A:Charles E. Rushmore, a New York City attorney, in 1885 who was out here on business.
Q:What is the recommended stay duration?
A:Minimalist (1 Day)
Sightseeing/Exploring: ½ day
Activities/Tours/Special Programs: ½ day
Adventurist (2 Days)
Sightseeing/Exploring: 1 day
Activities/Tours/Special Programs: 1 day
Notes: Mount Rushmore is an enduring monument of our nations rich history and heritage. Mount Rushmore is much more than a sculpture carved in stone, it is a deeper look into our country’s hard-working, patriotic past. It is a reminder of our rich heritage and our enduring passion for faith, freedom and the pursuit of liberty and justice for all. A visit to Mount Rushmore brings you face to face with this heritage and passionate patriotism, and renews your love and appreciation of this fine nation. While the sculptures on the mountainside may be the drawing card that gets visitors to the area, you really should plan extra time into your schedule in order to experience the historic displays located in the information center. There is also a number of guided tours and interpretive programs available at the park, including a unique audio tour that will guide you through a scenic walk through the park while you listen to the story of Mount Rushmore through music, narration, interviews, historic recordings and sound effects.
Q:What is the entrance fee for Mount Rushmore?
A:There is no entrance fee for Mount Rushmore however, there is a parking fee that is required at the memorial. For Cars, Motorcycles and RVs the fee is $10.00 per vehicle. Seniors 62yrs and older can park for $5.
