Quick answer: The best way to reach Mount Rushmore from any of the 5 nearby airports is by renting a car and driving. The drive from Rapid City Regional Airport takes around 30 minutes, while the drives from Sioux Falls Regional Airport, Denver International Airport, Billings Logan International Airport, and Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport take between 4 and 7 hours. Public transportation options are limited, so having your own vehicle will provide the most flexibility and convenience during your trip to Mount Rushmore.
Welcome to our blog article on how to get to Mount Rushmore from 5 nearby airports! If you’re planning a visit to this iconic American landmark, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll guide you through the different transportation options available, but we’ll start with the most practical solution – renting a car.
Mount Rushmore, located in the Black Hills of South Dakota, is a popular tourist destination known for its massive sculptures of four United States presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. It’s a must-visit site for history buffs, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking a glimpse of American patriotism.
Without further ado, let’s delve into the details of how to reach Mount Rushmore from the airports nearest to the monument.
How to Get to Mount Rushmore from 5 Nearby Airports
Fly into Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP)
If you’re planning a visit to Mount Rushmore, the nearest airport is Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP), located just 36 miles away. Several major airlines serve this airport, making it a convenient choice for travelers. Once you land at Rapid City Regional, here are your options for getting to Mount Rushmore:
1. Rent a Car
One of the most popular options for traveling from Rapid City Regional to Mount Rushmore is renting a car. The airport has several car rental agencies on-site, offering a range of vehicles to suit your needs. Simply pick up your rental car and follow the signs to South Dakota Highway 44, which will take you directly to Mount Rushmore.
2. Take a Shuttle
If you prefer not to drive, you can also take a shuttle from Rapid City Regional to Mount Rushmore. There are several shuttle services available, both private and shared, that offer transportation between the airport and the monument. This option is convenient if you don’t want to navigate unfamiliar roads or if you prefer to sit back and relax during the journey.
3. Hire a Taxi or Rideshare
Another option is to hire a taxi or use a ridesharing service like Uber or Lyft to get from the airport to Mount Rushmore. Taxis are available outside the terminal, and rideshare drivers can pick you up at a designated area. This option provides flexibility and convenience, especially if you don’t want to deal with parking once you reach the monument.
Arriving at Denver International Airport (DEN)
If you’re flying into Denver International Airport (DEN) and planning to visit Mount Rushmore, keep in mind that the distance between Denver and Mount Rushmore is approximately 375 miles. Here’s how you can make the journey:
1. Drive
Driving from Denver to Mount Rushmore is a scenic option that allows you to explore the beauty of the region. You can rent a car at the airport and take Interstate 25 north to Interstate 90 west. Follow the signs to South Dakota Highway 16, which will lead you to Mount Rushmore. The drive takes about six and a half hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions.
2. Fly to Rapid City Regional Airport
If you prefer a quicker option, you can take a connecting flight from Denver to Rapid City Regional Airport. Several airlines offer direct flights between the two cities, making it convenient for travelers. Once you land at Rapid City Regional, you can follow the same transportation options mentioned earlier.
Flying into Billings Logan International Airport (BIL)
Billings Logan International Airport (BIL) is another nearby airport that provides access to Mount Rushmore, although it’s located about 320 miles away. If you choose to fly into Billings and want to visit Mount Rushmore, here are your options:
1. Drive
Renting a car and driving from Billings to Mount Rushmore is a popular choice among travelers. From the airport, take Interstate 90 east and follow it for approximately six hours until you reach Mount Rushmore. This route offers beautiful scenic views and allows you to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace.
2. Fly to Rapid City Regional Airport
If you prefer a shorter travel time, you can book a connecting flight from Billings to Rapid City Regional Airport. Several airlines operate flights between the two cities, making it convenient for travelers. Once you arrive at Rapid City Regional, you can choose from the transportation options mentioned earlier to reach Mount Rushmore.
Traveling to Mount Rushmore from Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP)
Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) is located approximately 541 miles from Mount Rushmore. If you’re flying into Minneapolis and want to include a visit to Mount Rushmore in your itinerary, here’s how you can make the journey:
1. Drive
Driving from Minneapolis to Mount Rushmore is a lengthy but scenic option. From the airport, take Interstate 35 south, then follow Interstate 90 west until you reach Mount Rushmore. The drive takes about eight and a half hours, depending on traffic and stops along the way. Make sure to plan for breaks and consider spending a night in between to break up the journey.
2. Fly to Rapid City Regional Airport
If you prefer a quicker option, you can book a connecting flight from Minneapolis to Rapid City Regional Airport. Several airlines offer direct flights between the two cities, making it convenient for travelers. Once you land at Rapid City Regional, you can choose from the transportation options mentioned earlier to reach Mount Rushmore.
Arriving at Bismarck Municipal Airport (BIS)
Bismarck Municipal Airport (BIS) is located approximately 225 miles from Mount Rushmore. If you’re flying into Bismarck and want to visit Mount Rushmore, here’s how you can make the journey:
1. Drive
Driving from Bismarck to Mount Rushmore is a scenic option. From the airport, take Interstate 94 west and follow it until you reach Rapid City. Once in Rapid City, take South Dakota Highway 44 to Mount Rushmore. The drive takes about four and a half hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions.
2. Fly to Rapid City Regional Airport
If you prefer a shorter travel time, you can book a connecting flight from Bismarck to Rapid City Regional Airport. Several airlines operate flights between the two cities, making it convenient for travelers. Once you arrive at Rapid City Regional, you can choose from the transportation options mentioned earlier to reach Mount Rushmore.
Visiting Mount Rushmore from these five airports is relatively easy, offering various transportation options to suit your preferences. Whether you choose to drive, rent a car, take a shuttle, or catch a connecting flight, the journey to Mount Rushmore will undoubtedly be an unforgettable experience.
Ultimate One-Day Mount Rushmore Travel Guide | Mount Rushmore National Memorial
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the nearest airport to Mount Rushmore?
The nearest airport to Mount Rushmore is the Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP), located about 35 miles away.
How can I get from the Rapid City Regional Airport to Mount Rushmore?
You can reach Mount Rushmore from the Rapid City Regional Airport by renting a car, taking a shuttle service, or using a ridesharing app like Uber or Lyft. There are also taxi services available at the airport.
Are there any shuttle services available from the airport to Mount Rushmore?
Yes, there are several shuttle services that operate between Rapid City Regional Airport and Mount Rushmore. These shuttles offer convenient transportation options for travelers.
Can I rent a car at the Rapid City Regional Airport to visit Mount Rushmore?
Yes, there are several car rental companies available at Rapid City Regional Airport. You can easily rent a car upon your arrival and drive to Mount Rushmore at your own convenience.
Is public transportation available from the airports to Mount Rushmore?
While public transportation options are limited, there are bus services that operate between Rapid City and Mount Rushmore. However, it’s important to check the schedules and plan accordingly.
How long does it take to travel from the airports to Mount Rushmore?
The travel time from each airport to Mount Rushmore varies. It generally takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour to drive from Rapid City Regional Airport to Mount Rushmore, depending on traffic conditions and the chosen route.
Final Thoughts
Getting to Mount Rushmore from nearby airports is relatively easy and convenient. If you’re flying into Rapid City Regional Airport, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service for the 45-minute drive to the national memorial. From the Denver International Airport, you have the option of renting a car and enjoying a scenic 6-hour drive through the Black Hills. Another choice is flying into Sioux Falls Regional Airport and embarking on a 4-hour drive to Mount Rushmore. For those landing at Bismarck Airport, a 4-hour drive south will take you to this iconic landmark. Lastly, from the Billings Logan International Airport, you can rent a car and experience a picturesque 6-hour drive to Mount Rushmore. Regardless of which airport you choose, reaching Mount Rushmore is a straightforward and enjoyable journey.