The Black Hills of South Dakota offer sweeping views, rich cultural heritage, and two of the most iconic monuments in the United States. Crazy Horse vs Mount Rushmore creates a memorable combination for anyone exploring this region. For me and Michelle, this trip is also personal. We visited Crazy Horse more than 12 years ago when the monument was still deep in the carving process and the arm and hand were far from complete. Returning now and seeing the hand fully shaped and defined was a surreal reminder of how history unfolds over time.
Crazy Horse Memorial: A Monument Still Taking Shape
Crazy Horse Memorial is a one of a kind mountain carving honoring the Lakota leader Crazy Horse and celebrating Native American culture and history. Begun in 1948, the monument is an ongoing project that continues to evolve as artisans and engineers work year by year.
A Personal Throwback: More Than 12 Years of Progress
When Michelle and I first visited over a decade ago, the head of the carving was finished, and the arm was still being shaped. The hand was barely outlined and felt more like a rough sketch in the granite. Coming back now and seeing the hand fully carved was incredible. The entire arm has gained definition, scale, and character that simply was not there before. It felt like watching time become solid. The difference is striking.
What You Will See at Crazy Horse Today
• The completed 53 foot tall face
• The fully shaped arm and hand, representing a major milestone in the carving
• Viewpoints showing how the horse and rider will eventually appear
• The Indian Museum of North America
• The sculptor’s home and studio
• Seasonal blasting demonstrations and educational programs
Every visit to Crazy Horse vs Mount Rushmore feels like a snapshot of a work in progress, a rare chance to witness a monument being built in real time.
Mount Rushmore: The Most Recognized Mountainside in America
Only about 30 minutes from Crazy Horse sits Mount Rushmore National Memorial. The granite faces of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln stand 60 feet tall and remain one of the most iconic images in the country.
Why Mount Rushmore Pairs So Well With Crazy Horse
These two monuments sit close together yet tell completely different stories. Crazy Horse honors Native American history and culture while Mount Rushmore highlights U.S. presidential leadership. Seeing them both provides a fuller understanding of the Black Hills and the narratives connected to the land.
What to See at Mount Rushmore
• The Avenue of Flags
• Grand View Terrace
• The Sculptor’s Studio exhibit
• The Presidential Trail which offers wonderful angles and perspectives
• The seasonal evening lighting ceremony
Morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photos, highlighting the texture in the granite.
Crazy Horse vs Mount Rushmore: Why Both Are Worth Visiting
Mount Rushmore was finished in 1941 and is a polished, completed monument. It represents American leadership and national identity.
Crazy Horse Memorial is still under construction. It is expansive, evolving, and centered around Native American heritage. The contrast between the two creates a deeper appreciation of the history and cultures connected to the Black Hills.
Both deserve a place on your itinerary.
Tips for Planning Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
Late spring through early fall usually offers the best weather, open facilities, and full programs at both monuments.
Recommended Order
Visit Crazy Horse Memorial first to take in the cultural and historical context, then drive to Mount Rushmore for sunset or the lighting ceremony.
Time Needed
Plan for about one hour at Crazy Horse depending on how much time you spend in the museum. Mount Rushmore typically takes one to two hours not counting hikes.
Nearby Places to Add to Your Trip
• Custer State Park
• Needles Highway
• Wind Cave National Park
• Sylvan Lake
• Hill City wineries and breweries
Final Thoughts: A Journey Through Culture, Memory, and Monumental Landscapes
Returning to Crazy Horse more than 12 years after our first visit was eye opening. Seeing the hand fully completed showed how much progress has been made on this extraordinary monument. Pairing Crazy Horse Memorial with Mount Rushmore creates an unforgettable South Dakota experience. Two mountainsides. Two stories. One remarkable journey.
