Mount Rushmore National Memorial is a significant landmark in the US. This site, located in South Dakota’s the Black Hills, draws around two million visitors annually. It’s one of the well-known places in the United States.
Many visit Mount Rushmore to see its beauty and learn more about the country’s history. Over the years, it has become a symbol of the American spirit.
It’s also where people from different backgrounds can unite to share in the country’s freedom. Designed by Gutzon Borglum, the four presidents on Mount Rushmore represent some of the most significant events in the country’s history.
But when is the best time to visit Mount Rushmore? That is precisely what we will explain to you in this article.
Let’s get started!
Where is Mount Rushmore?
The massive sculpture, which measures more than 30 feet tall, can be found on Mount Rushmore’s granite face in the Black Hills, Keystone, South Dakota.
Borglum designed the sculpture and oversaw its creation from 1927 to 1941. He also collaborated with his son Lincoln on the project.
The heads of the four US presidents, which include George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt, are 60 feet tall.
The four presidents were chosen for their various roles in the country’s history. Mount Rushmore has an elevation of more than 5,000 feet.
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Cheapest Time to Visit Mount Rushmore
If you’re planning on visiting Mount Rushmore on a budget, you must know when the cheapest time to go is.
The most reasonable time to visit the site is from November to February. This period will offer you the lowest prices for accommodations, flights, and activities.
After making up your mind to visit Mount Rushmore, you can find flights that start at around $150.
Regarding booking accommodations, you can expect to pay approximately $55 a night. Therefore, booking accommodations several months in advance is essential to ensure you get the best deals.
It is also important to note that the cheapest is not necessarily the best time to visit Mount Rushmore.
Mount Rushmore in January
The average temperature in January at Mount Rushmore is around 18 degrees Fahrenheit. January is also the month with the lowest rainfall.
Since it’s the season for cold weather, up to six inches of snow can be found in the area.
If you’re planning on visiting during January, make sure you have plenty of warm clothes. Besides a coat, you should also pack a hat and other winter accessories.
Mount Rushmore in February
The temperature in February at Mount Rushmore can range from 19 degrees Fahrenheit to 36 degrees Fahrenheit.
This is because it’s the last month of winter in the area, and it usually sees around 8 inches of snow.
Mount Rushmore in March
The temperature in March at Mount Rushmore can range from 24 degrees Fahrenheit to 43 degrees Fahrenheit.
It’s the first month of spring, and this month brings a bit of cold weather. Although it doesn’t get much rainfall, the area can still expect around 10 inches of snow.
Mount Rushmore in April
The temperature in April at Mount Rushmore can range from 32 degrees Fahrenheit to 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
In South Dakota, April is known for its cool weather. In addition to 2 inches of rainfall, the area can get around 10 inches of snow.
Mount Rushmore in May
The temperature in May at Mount Rushmore can range from 41 degrees Fahrenheit to 60 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s considered a mild month and the last month of spring.
The area experiences heavy rainfall during this month, which can cause around 4 inches of rain.
You’ll want to pack various items for your trip to Mount Rushmore this month, such as clothes, shoes, and a light jacket.
Besides rain, this month is also known for its excellent mountain biking activities.
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Mount Rushmore in June
The temperature in June at Mount Rushmore can range from 51 degrees Fahrenheit to 71 degrees Fahrenheit.
It’s considered a mild month and the first month of summer. The area experiences heavy rainfall during this month, which can cause around 4 inches of rain.
Mount Rushmore in July
Temperatures in July at Mount Rushmore can range from 58 degrees Fahrenheit to 79 degrees Fahrenheit.
It’s considered to be the warmest month of the year, and it’s known for its moderate temperatures. During the 11 days of rain in July, the area can get around 3 inches of rain.
Mount Rushmore in August
Temperatures in August at Mount Rushmore can range from 57 degrees Fahrenheit to 78 degrees Fahrenheit.
It’s the last month of summer and is considered to be a moderately hot month. The area experiences heavy rainfall around nine days out.
If you’re planning on visiting Mount Rushmore this month, you’ll want to pack various items such as clothes, shoes, and a light jacket.
Mount Rushmore in September
Temperatures in September at Mount Rushmore can range from 48 degrees Fahrenheit to 67 degrees Fahrenheit.
It’s considered a comfortable month at the site, as it’s the first month of autumn. The area experiences heavy rainfall during this month, which can cause around 2 inches of rain.
You’ll want to pack warm clothing as the temperatures drop in September.
Mount Rushmore in October
Temperatures at Mount Rushmore during October can range from 36 degrees Fahrenheit to 54 degrees Fahrenheit.
In South Dakota, October is known for its cold weather. Depending on the season, the area can get up to 3 inches of snow.
You’ll also want to pack various items for your trip to Mount Rushmore, such as hats, gloves, pants, and jackets.
Mount Rushmore in November
The temperatures in November in Mount Rushmore can range from 26 degrees Fahrenheit to 43 degrees Fahrenheit.
During this month, the area experiences cold weather and snow. It snows for around three days out of the month, accumulating about three inches.
Mount Rushmore in December
The temperatures in December in Mount Rushmore can range from 18 degrees Fahrenheit to 35 degrees Fahrenheit.
During this month, the area experiences cold weather and snow. It snows for around three days out of the month, resulting in approximately six inches of accumulation.
If you’re planning on visiting Mount Rushmore this month, you’ll want to pack multiple layers of clothes and boots.
Best Time to Visit Mount Rushmore
There are plenty of activities and outdoor adventures that you can take with the family on Mount Rushmore, and the best time to visit the site is during September and October.
The shoulder season (September and October) in Mount Rushmore is the best time to visit the area due to its beautiful fall colors, less-crowded conditions, and better weather.
Early fall is another excellent time to visit with the family as it’s mild and doesn’t get too cold or hot.
If you’re planning on visiting Mount Rushmore without the crowds, you should consider traveling during the winter season to avoid them.
During this period, the lack of visitors and the availability of cheap lodging locations make traveling during this season an excellent choice.
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Best Time to Visit Mount Rushmore for Photography
The best time to visit Mount Rushmore is during the golden hour, usually sunrise. This period is the best time to take photos of the site.
The east-facing presidents will most likely be at their best during this period. So this is the best time to take photos of these unique faces.
Cost of a Trip to Mount Rushmore
Although Mount Rushmore doesn’t have an entrance fee, you must pay $10, valid for one year, to park your private passenger vehicle. Free parking is available for active-duty military personnel.