17B-Mnt Rushmore CrazyHorse June 2021
Exploring Iconic Monuments: Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial
Introduction:
In the heart of the Black Hills of South Dakota, two monumental sculptures stand as symbols of American history and Native American heritage: Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial. These iconic landmarks attract visitors from around the world, offering insights into the nation's past and the enduring spirit of its people. Join us as we embark on a journey to discover the history, attractions, and experiences awaiting at Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial.
Mount Rushmore:
- Location: Mount Rushmore is located near Keystone, South Dakota, in the Black Hills National Forest.
- Driving Directions: From Rapid City, take US Highway 16 southwest to Keystone, then follow the signs to Mount Rushmore National Memorial.
- History: Mount Rushmore was sculpted by artist Gutzon Borglum between 1927 and 1941. The monument features the faces of four American presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln, each representing different aspects of American history and leadership.
- Available Hikes: Mount Rushmore offers several hiking trails that provide stunning views of the monument and surrounding landscape. The Presidential Trail is a popular choice, offering a close-up view of the sculptures and access to the Grand View Terrace.
- Nighttime Events: During the summer months, Mount Rushmore hosts a nightly lighting ceremony, where the monument is illuminated against the backdrop of the Black Hills. The ceremony includes patriotic music, speeches, and the lighting of the monument's faces.
- Tours: Ranger-led tours are available at Mount Rushmore, providing visitors with insights into the monument's history, construction, and significance. Self-guided audio tours are also available for those wishing to explore at their own pace.
Crazy Horse Memorial:
- Location: Crazy Horse Memorial is located near Custer, South Dakota, in the Black Hills.
- Driving Directions: From Mount Rushmore, take US Highway 16A southwest to Custer, then follow the signs to Crazy Horse Memorial.
- History: Crazy Horse Memorial was commissioned in 1948 by Lakota Chief Henry Standing Bear to honor the legacy of Crazy Horse, a revered Lakota leader. Sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski began work on the monument in 1948, and today it remains a work in progress, funded entirely by private donations.
- Available Hikes: Crazy Horse Memorial offers hiking trails that provide views of the monument and surrounding landscape. The Crazy Horse Volksmarch, held annually in June, allows visitors to hike to the top of the monument for a unique perspective.
- Tours: Guided tours of Crazy Horse Memorial are available, offering insights into the monument's history, construction, and ongoing development. Visitors can learn about the vision behind the monument and the cultural significance of Crazy Horse to the Lakota people.
- Nighttime Events: Crazy Horse Memorial hosts special events throughout the year, including night blasts, laser light shows, and cultural performances that celebrate Native American heritage and traditions.
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial is during the summer months when the weather is mild and visitor amenities are fully operational. However, both monuments are open year-round, and each season offers its own unique charm and opportunities for exploration.
Conclusion:
Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial stand as enduring symbols of American history and Native American heritage, offering visitors a chance to explore the past and celebrate the spirit of the American West. Whether you're marveling at the grandeur of Mount Rushmore's presidential faces or learning about the legacy of Crazy Horse, these iconic monuments promise an unforgettable experience for travelers of all ages.
June 28
So today was travel day again. We journeyed from Fort Robinson to Hermosa, South Dakota. Our journey took us through Wind Cave National Monument, as well as a short excursion through Custer State Park.
Our landing spot in Hermosa is just a nice little RV park off the main highway. Dinner was pizza at the local pizza joint.
June 29
Today's adventures include the local motorcycle Hall of Fame in Sturgis South Dakota as well as the Museum at Fort Meade, South Dakota. Later today we have to go into mailboxes and get our new address as well as all the current titling for the truck and trailer accomplished.
June 30
Today's journey began with going to get our drivers licenses. We left the trailer around 7 AM and drove down to the driver's license place in Rapid City, South Dakota. We were able to get our licenses switched over as walk-ins without an appointment set up.
Following our driver's license, we went over to Target and purchased ourselves a new toaster oven for the trailer and then returned to the trailer in Hermosa, South Dakota.
The rest of our day's journey included Crazy Horse Memorial as well as Mount Rushmore.
Crazy Horse Memorial has made a lot of progress since I was there in 2010 which was really cool to see. We took time to watch a few tribal dancers do hoop dancing, which was informative as they shared the background of the dance. On the downside, people are extremely rude, standing in front of others blocking their view after the folks showed up late to the show.
Watched the video presentation of the Memorial, checked out the museum, and that was the extent of our stop.
Mount Rushmore is never a disappointment, incredible is about the only way that I know to describe it. Did the President loop trail, taking pictures along the way.
Stopped at the Artist's Studio and listened to the ranger presentation.
We returned to the trailer and relaxed in anticipation of tomorrow's journey to Wyoming.