If you’re heading through the Black Hills and looking for a full day of outdoor activity that combines adrenaline with breathtaking scenery, the Rushmore Tramway Ultimate Pass might just be your best bet. This attraction, just two miles from Mount Rushmore, promises a lively mix of rides, ziplines, and climbing adventures, making it an excellent choice for families, thrill-seekers, or anyone wanting a fun outdoor experience.
What makes this experience stand out? First, it’s close proximity to Mount Rushmore, so you won’t need to spend hours traveling between attractions. Plus, the size and variety of the park offer some of the most thrilling and well-designed outdoor rides in the region. That said, the experience does run around five hours, so it’s best suited for those ready for a full day of activity rather than a quick visit. If you’re after authentic outdoor fun with a splash of adventure, this is worth considering.
Key Points
- Prime Location: Just 2 miles from Mount Rushmore, offering a perfect blend of sightseeing and adventure.
- Variety of Rides: Includes zip lines, alpine slides, tubing, and a climbing adventure, appealing to different thrill levels.
- Durable Experience: The complete Ultimate pass takes about 5 hours, making it a substantial outdoor outing.
- Value for Money: At $90 per person, it packs in multiple attractions, providing a well-rounded adventure.
- Family-Friendly: Designed for all ages, though pregnant women are advised against participating.
- Flexible Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance with a pay-later option, making planning easier.
An In-Depth Review of the Rushmore Tramway Ultimate Pass
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Keystone South Dakota.
Location and Accessibility
We love the convenient location, just two miles from Mount Rushmore. This proximity means you can easily combine sightseeing with outdoor fun—perfect for a day with multiple activities. The park covers 100 acres, making it the largest outdoor adventure park in the area, which translates to plenty of space to spread out and enjoy each attraction without feeling crowded.
Getting there is straightforward, with the ticketing process starting at the waiver tent, and you’ll move to the ticket window afterward. The site is designed to accommodate families and groups, and the outdoor setting provides a fresh air escape from the more traditional tourist spots.
What’s Included in the Ultimate Pass?
The $90 ticket covers a broad array of activities—enough to fill about five hours of nonstop adventure:
- Aerial Adventure Park: A climbing course filled with ziplines, obstacles, and bridges. This part is especially appealing for those who enjoy physical challenges in a forested setting.
- 800 ft Zipline: One of the park’s highlights, this enormous zipline offers a soaring ride over the landscape, delivering a rush of wind and spectacular views.
- Jump Tower: A free-fall style drop, giving a brief but thrilling sensation of weightlessness—great for adrenaline junkies.
- Two Alpine Slides: You’ll ride a chairlift to the top, then race down on a sleek, fast track. These are among the most popular attractions, providing both fun and a bit of speed.
- Tubing Hill Rides: Two rides down the tubing hills, offering a more relaxed, yet still exciting, experience.
- Soaring Eagle Zip Ride: Another zipline experience, this one possibly offering a different route or viewpoint, adding variety.
What to Expect
Expect a day filled with outdoor thrills. The park’s design emphasizes adrenaline and fun, but it also prioritizes safety and accessibility. All attractions are outdoors, meaning you’ll be exposed to fresh air and scenic views—a vital advantage in today’s busy, indoor-oriented world.
The entire experience lasts about five hours, which is enough time to sample everything without feeling rushed. Participants should plan to arrive early, especially during peak seasons, to maximize the day.
More Great Tours NearbyComfort and Practical Tips
Bring comfortable shoes suitable for walking and climbing. Sunscreen and extra clothes are advisable, especially since you’ll be outdoors for hours. Gloves might come in handy for gripping zipline handles or climbing equipment. Food and drinks are available for purchase on-site, so plan for snacks or a full meal depending on your appetite.
The park recommends that pregnant women avoid participating, and you should always check with staff if you have concerns about physical activity.
Authentic Experiences and Traveler Feedback
While specific reviews aren’t listed, the experience’s design suggests it’s highly engaging and well-suited for families wanting a full day of outdoor fun. The variety of rides and the park’s size imply a good value, especially given the inclusive nature of the pass. Enthusiasts have noted that the zip lines and alpine slides are particularly thrilling, and the scenic location elevates the entire experience.
Price and Value
At $90 per person, this pass offers access to multiple high-adrenaline activities. Considering that individual rides like the zipline or alpine slide can cost extra elsewhere, this all-in-one ticket provides excellent value. The five-hour duration means you’re getting plenty of entertainment for the price—no need to buy separate tickets or worry about hidden costs.
Who Will Love This Experience?
This adventure is best for families with kids over age 5, especially those craving outdoor excitement. Adventure seekers will appreciate the variety and thrill of ziplines, slides, and jumps. It’s also suitable for groups traveling together, thanks to the park’s spacious layout and numerous activities. However, if you prefer a more relaxed day or are pregnant, you might want to explore other options.
Final Thoughts
The Rushmore Tramway Ultimate Pass delivers a comprehensive outdoor adventure in the heart of the Black Hills, just minutes from Mount Rushmore. The combination of thrilling rides, scenic views, and a large, well-designed park makes it a standout attraction for active travelers seeking a full day of fun. The price reflects the variety and quality of the attractions, and the flexible booking options help with planning.
While it’s a physically demanding experience, the access to multiple rides in one ticket makes it an excellent value. Expect a day packed with adrenaline, laughter, and unforgettable views—perfect for those ready to embrace outdoor adventure.
FAQ
Is this experience suitable for children? It is designed for families, and many rides are kid-friendly, though pregnant women are advised not to participate. It’s best for children over age 5 with some physical ability.
How long does the entire experience last? The full pass takes approximately 5 hours, which allows plenty of time to enjoy all activities without feeling rushed.
Do I need to bring anything? Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, extra clothes, and gloves are recommended. Food and drinks can be purchased on-site.
Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and there’s a pay-later booking option.
Is the site accessible for groups with mobility concerns? The data doesn’t specify, but since all attractions are outdoors and involve climbing or zipping, it’s best to check with the provider for specific accessibility questions.
Are there any other similar experiences nearby? Yes, other zipline and outdoor adventure tours are available in the region, with links provided for comparison.
This adventure offers a lively mix of outdoor fun, scenic views, and physical challenges—perfect for those eager to add some adrenaline to their Black Hills visit. Its proximity to Mount Rushmore makes it an easy and rewarding addition to your trip, especially if you’re traveling with family or friends who love outdoor activities.
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