Introduction
Looking for a way to combine the iconic scenery of Mt. Rushmore with a dose of adrenaline? The Pinnacle Zipline Tour in Keystone, South Dakota, offers just that—a 2-hour guided experience that whisks you through the Black Hills while giving you breathtaking views of the famous faces carved into granite.
What we love about this tour is the chance to see Mt. Rushmore from a perspective most visitors never get—whizzing through the air at speeds up to 40 mph, with views that are both majestic and memorable. Plus, the guides here are praised for their professionalism and enthusiasm, making the experience both safe and fun.
One potential consideration? The tour is physically demanding — you’ll need closed-toe shoes and should be comfortable with heights, as some ziplines reach 400 feet above ground. But if you’re a thrill-seeker or a family with older kids looking for a distinctive adventure, this zipline delivers plenty of value and excitement. It’s perfect for those who want a quick, memorable highlight that’s as much about the scenery as the thrill.
Key Points
- Unique Experience: The only zipline in the world offering views of Mt. Rushmore.
- Stunning Scenery: The Black Hills landscape provides a majestic backdrop.
- Great Guides: Well-reviewed, professional, and engaging guides enhance the fun.
- Family-Friendly: Suitable for families with older children, not for pregnant women or wheelchair users.
- Time & Cost: 2 hours for $140 per person, offering a substantial adventure in a short timeframe.
- Limited Group Size: Small groups (up to 10) mean personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
An Insider Look at the Pinnacle Zipline Tour
We’ll start by explaining what this experience really involves, because understanding the itinerary helps you appreciate its value. The tour is centered around a chairlift ride to the summit of a mountain in the Black Hills, which alone offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. From there, you’ll be harnessed up and ready to zip down five side-by-side ziplines, with three of them providing direct vistas of Mt. Rushmore. The thrill and the scenery combine so that you’ll be zipping up to 400 feet in the air, with speeds reaching up to 40 mph.
This isn’t just a simple ride; it’s a carefully guided adventure. The tour starts with a brief safety briefing and a demonstration, ensuring everyone understands how the equipment works and feels comfortable before launching. The guides are consistently praised for their knowledge and caring attitude, making sure everyone feels safe while keeping the energy fun and engaging.
The five ziplines are laid out in a sequence that allows you to enjoy the Black Hills from different angles, with the most iconic views coming from the three that overlook Mt. Rushmore. The experience is designed to be family-friendly yet exhilarating, appealing to thrill-seekers and those who simply want a memorable way to experience South Dakota’s scenery.
What the Scenery Looks Like
As you soar through the air, you’ll be captivated by the majestic landscape of the Black Hills. The views of Mt. Rushmore are truly special—getting close enough to see the carved faces from a side perspective is a rare treat. The landscape is a mix of dense pine trees, rocky outcrops, and expansive vistas, all adding to the feeling of being part of the natural environment.
One reviewer mentioned that the scenery was incredible, describing it as a highlight of the tour. The combination of natural beauty and the monumental sculpture makes for a truly unique visual experience. Even if you’ve seen Mt. Rushmore from the ground, seeing it from this elevated perspective adds a new dimension of appreciation.
The Guides and Group Size
The tour is limited to small groups of up to 10 participants, which means more personalized attention and a relaxed vibe. Several reviews praise the guides for their professionalism, fun attitude, and clear instructions—the key ingredients for a safe and enjoyable experience. Guides like Shane, David, Edwin, and others are frequently mentioned as making the adventure memorable with their enthusiasm and expertise.
Given the reviews, it’s evident that the guides excel at making everyone feel comfortable. They explain the safety procedures thoroughly and are attentive to individual needs. Their ability to blend safety with fun ensures that even nervous first-timers get through the experience with confidence.
Pricing and Value
At $140 per person for two hours, the price might seem steep to some, but considering what’s included—chairlift ride, five ziplines, guided experience, harness, helmet—the value is quite good. Especially since you’re getting a unique opportunity to zip directly near Mt. Rushmore, which isn’t available anywhere else in the world.
The tour’s small group size and knowledgeable guides add to the perception of value. It’s not just about the adrenaline; it’s about seeing one of America’s most famous landmarks from a fresh and exciting angle. For families or groups wanting to combine scenic sightseeing with adventure, this tour offers a memorable experience that justifies the cost.
Practical Details and Tips
- Duration: Just 2 hours, making it easy to fit into a busy sightseeing day.
- Timing: Usually available in the morning and afternoon—check ahead for availability.
- What to Bring: Closed-toe shoes are a must for safety and comfort.
- Not Allowed: Hats, alcohol, or drugs—safety first.
- Meeting Point: At the waiver tent and sales window—easy to find with clear instructions.
- Cancellation Policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if plans change.
Experience Review in a Nutshell
We loved the way guides made everyone feel both safe and excited. The stunning views of Mt. Rushmore from the ziplines are truly a highlight—something no other zipline offers. The thrill of zipping side-by-side with friends or family at high speeds was memorable, and the overall landscape made the adventure feel authentic and scenic.
While the activity isn’t suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, for anyone comfortable with heights and looking for a breathtaking, active experience, this tour hits the mark. The reviews highlight how much travelers appreciated the guides’ professionalism and the fun atmosphere, making it clear that this is more than just a zipline—it’s a memorable Black Hills adventure.
The Sum Up
The Pinnacle Zipline Tour near Mt. Rushmore offers an extraordinary way to see the Black Hills while satisfying your craving for adventure. It’s a well-organized, small-group experience that combines the majesty of South Dakota’s landscape with the adrenaline rush of zipping at high speeds. The views of the carved faces of Mt. Rushmore from the air are unlike anything else in the world, making this a must-do for thrill-seekers and scenery lovers alike.
This tour is best suited for families with older children, adventure enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a quick yet memorable highlight of the Black Hills. The guides’ professionalism and the stunning scenery ensure that the experience is safe, fun, and truly special. For travelers seeking a blend of natural beauty and a rush of adrenaline, this zipline adventure delivers on every front.
Overall, if you’re ready for a unique, scenic ride that gets your heart pounding and your camera ready, the Pinnacle Zipline Tour is worth the price and the effort. It’s a high-value, unforgettable part of any trip to the Black Hills.
FAQ
- How long does the tour last? The entire experience takes about 2 hours, including safety briefings, chairlift ride, and zipping.
- What is included in the price? Your ticket covers the chairlift ride, five zipline runs, guides, harness, helmet, and zip trolley.
- Is it suitable for children? It’s family-friendly, but not for very young kids or those uncomfortable with heights. The reviews don’t specify minimum ages, but it’s ideal for older children and teenagers.
- What should I wear? Closed-toe shoes are required for safety and comfort.
- Can I cancel my reservation? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
- Are guides available in languages other than English? The tour is conducted in English, with no mention of other languages.
- Is there any gear I need to bring? Just your closed-toe shoes; sunscreen and water bottles are not included but recommended.
- Are there any restrictions? Hats, alcohol, and drugs are not allowed. The activity is not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users.
- Where do I meet for the tour? At the waiver tent and sales window—details are provided upon booking for easy access.
This zipline experience near Mt. Rushmore offers an exciting, scenic way to see the Black Hills — perfect for those who crave adventure and views in one memorable package.
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