Can I Bring My Dog to Mount Rushmore?

Posted by Billy Francis

At Mount Rushmore, in the Black Hills of South Dakota, the famous faces of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt peer out from the granite rock face of Black Elk Peak. One of the most recognizable sculptures in the world, this unique attraction draws more than two million people each year, but are canines welcome to visit?

While Mount Rushmore National Memorial is strict on where four-legged visitors are allowed to explore, leashed pups can join their owners in certain areas and even get a glimpse of the landmark from a shady pathway. So, should you plan a different trip with your furry best friend or is it time to rename this tourist attraction “Mount Ruffmore?”

Where Can I Stay With My Dog?

“Rush more? Chill more!” Photo by @morganmastiff

Under Canvas Mount Rushmore

Under Canvas offers luxury pet-friendly glamping in scenic destinations across the U.S., and Under Canvas Mount Rushmore is no different. With views of the four presidents from just outside the cozy tents, there’s really nowhere better to soak up the sculpture with your Saluki. From suites with plush king-size beds and private bathrooms to safari tents with multiple beds inside, there’s something to suit every pack. Guests can enjoy on-site dining, nightly gatherings around the fire pit, live music, morning yoga and a pet-friendly hiking trail that begins at the camp. Under Canvas Mount Rushmore allows pets of any size for an additional fee of $25 per pet, per night.

Enjoy a serene stay next to the pond with your pooch. Photo by Gold Camp Cabins

Gold Camp Cabins

Located near Custer, SD with views of Black Hills National Forest, Gold Camp Cabins is happy to put people and pups up while on vacation. Beat the crowds of the nearby tourist attractions and take time out at your own private cabin. Leashed pets will enjoy wandering around the grassy grounds, keeping you company while you cast a line into the fishing pond or grill up dinner, and making new friends around the fire ring after sunset. Gold Camp Cabins welcomes dogs of any size for an additional fee of $15 per pet, per night.

There’s a reason people and pups keep coming back! Photo by La Quinta by Wyndham Rapid City

La Quinta by Wyndham Rapid City

La Quinta by Wyndham Rapid City is one of the most popular pet-friendly hotels in the area. Fido will love the fenced pet relief area which features artificial grass and waste stations and allows him to play off leash after a day of sightseeing. When he’s ready to wind down, he’ll enjoy sprawling out in his spacious room. La Quinta by Wyndham Rapid City welcomes two pets up to 75 lbs for an additional fee of $25 per night (not to exceed $75 per stay.)

"Is Roosevelt in?" Photo by Facebook.com/RooseveltInn

Roosevelt Inn

Located just five minutes from Mount Rushmore, Roosevelt Inn is as convenient as it is accommodating to pups who come to stay. At check-in, four-legged guests receive a goodie bag with a treat, waste bags, and paper towels. Outside, there’s a small pet relief area to sniff out before bedtime, or you can cross the road and let Fido loose at Mount Barkmore Dog Park. In the morning, enjoy your morning coffee on the balcony with a mountain view. Roosevelt Inn allows one pet up to 50 lbs for an additional fee of $25 per stay.

“Barkin’ at the Bavarian!” Photo by BringFido/Christina

Bavarian Inn Black Hills

Bavarian Inn Black Hills offers quaint accommodations a short drive from Mount Rushmore. People traveling with pets can stay in the exterior rooms for better access to the green space, fitness area and walking paths outside. Dogs are also welcome to join their owners at the on-site Feel Good Cafe for breakfast. Bavarian Inn Black Hills welcomes two pets of any size for an additional fee of $25 per pet, per night.

Photo by @marcelolo.f

Are pets allowed at any other hotels near Mount Rushmore?

AmericInn by Wyndham Rapid City welcomes two pets up to 70 lbs for an additional fee of $25 per pet, per night.

Best Western Buffalo Ridge Inn allows two pets up to 80 lbs in designated rooms for an additional fee of $25 per pet, per night.

Best Western Golden Spike Inn & Suites accepts two dogs up to 80 lbs in designated rooms for an additional fee of $30 per pet, per night.

Best Western Ramkota Hotel Rapid City welcomes two dogs up to 80 lbs for an additional fee of $25 per night.

Chalet Motel allows pets up to 30 lbs for no additional fee.

Comfort Suites Conference Center Rapid City welcomes two pets up to 50 lbs for an additional fee of $20 per pet, per night.

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Rapid City welcomes two pets up to 40 lbs for an additional fee of $20 per night.

Foothills Inn Rapid City welcomes two dogs up to 20 lbs for an additional fee of $20 per pet, per night.

GrandStay Residential Suites Rapid City welcomes two pets of any size for an additional fee of $20 per stay, plus a $150 refundable deposit.

Hampton Inn Rapid City welcomes two pets up to 75 lbs for an additional fee of $50 per pet, per stay.

Holiday Inn Rapid City Rushmore Plaza allows two pets of any size for an additional fee of $50 per stay.

Holy Smoke Resort accepts two dogs of any size for an additional fee of $10 per pet, per night.

Home2 Suites by Hilton Rapid City welcomes two pets up to 75 lbs for an additional fee of $50 per pet, per stay.

The Hotel Alex Johnson accepts two pets of any size for an additional fee of $50 per pet, per night.

Howard Johnson Rapid City welcomes two dogs up to 25 lbs in designated rooms for an additional fee of $20 per pet, per night.

Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Rapid City welcomes three pets of any size for an additional fee of $25 per pet, per night.

My Place Hotel Rapid City welcomes two pets up to 40 lbs for an additional fee of $15 per night.

Quality Inn Rapid City welcomes two dogs up to 25 lbs in designated rooms for an additional fee of $15 per dog, per night.

Residence Inn Rapid City allows two pets of any size for an additional fee of $100 per stay.

Rodeway Inn Rapid City welcomes two dogs of any size for an additional fee of $10 per pet, per night.

The Rushmore Hotel accepts two pets up to 30 lbs in designated rooms for an additional fee of $15 per pet, per night.

Sleep Inn & Suites Rapid City welcomes one pet up to 40 lbs for an additional fee of $20 per night.

Staybridge Suites Rapid City Rushmore allows two pets up to 50 lbs for an additional fee of $75 (for stays of 1 to 6 nights) or $150 (for longer stays).

Super 8 Custer Crazy Horse welcomes two pets of any size in designated rooms for an additional fee of $25 per pet, per night.

What Can I Do With My Dog at Mount Rushmore?

“Crazy Horse meet crazy dog!” Photo by BringFido/August

Whether you’re planning a pet-friendly road trip through South Dakota or making a rapid descent into Rapid City with your pooch, Mount Rushmore will be a high priority for most visitors to the region. Unfortunately, it’s not the most pet-friendly monument in the world. Pups are not permitted beyond the columns at the entrance to the memorial, but you can still see the sculpture with Fido from the entrance.

Elsewhere at Mount Rushmore National Memorial, leashed dogs are welcome to join their owners on Blackberry Trail, a designated National Recreational Trail with a moderate rating. Or, follow the yellow paw prints from the parking lot to the pet exercise area that will take you and your pooch on a shady walk under the pines to a lovely view of Mount Rushmore. Despite not being the most obliging place for pups to visit, they are still invited to become Bark Rangers.

Mount Rushmore isn’t the only place you can get a glimpse of fantastic famous faces in South Dakota. Head to nearby Crazy Horse Memorial to see the world’s largest mountain carving in progress. Leashed dogs are welcome at the outdoor viewing veranda to see the impressive sculpture of the Lakota warrior, Crazy Horse, and explore the outdoor exhibits. Or, visit Hermosa and enjoy a photo shoot with the 3 President Head Statues of John F. Kennedy, Ronald Reagan and George W. Bush.

This rowdy hound rides! Photo by @wilddogmurphy

Where is the Best Place to See Mount Rushmore with My Dog?

Four-legged tourists don’t have to visit Mount Rushmore National Memorial to see the sculpture. In fact, some of the best views of the “Shrine of Democracy” can be found on scenic roads and overlooks in the surrounding areas. After embarking on a wild ride through Custer State Park, cruise on Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway, also known as Iron Mountain Road. This scenic 70-mile stretch connects Custer State Park and Mount Rushmore National Memorial. Along the way, you can enjoy a peek-a-boo view of the monument framed through the Doane Robinson Tunnel. Keep driving to South Dakota Highway 244, which boasts an awesome profile view of George Washington’s head.

When Should I Visit Mount Rushmore With My Dog?

Photo by @dual.service.k9s

Summer is the peak tourist season at Mount Rushmore National Memorial. While it’s the most popular time of year, it may not be the best time to visit with your dog due to the huge crowds and extreme heat. Instead, plan your pet-friendly vacation during September or October when temperatures drop and the number of people visiting the area decreases.

Whenever you choose to visit, don’t miss the sunset at Mount Rushmore. Then, stay afterward to see the faces lit up at night.

Where Can I Take My Dog While I Explore Mount Rushmore?

“Home away from home!” Photo by SafeHaven Pet Resort

If you want to get up close to the memorial, leave Fido in the capable hands of the dog lovers at SafeHaven Pet Resort. Pups who attend dog daycare are invited to play in groups, cool off in a kiddie pool and under sprinklers, or curl up in a club chair for an afternoon of relaxation in front of the television. There’s even more fun to be had during bacon bubble time, ice cookie treat time and while on a leisurely stroll along the resort’s walking paths.

Yes, You Can Bring Fido to Mount Rushmore!

“This is as far as we go.” Photo by @mini.phinny

People and pups planning an adventure in The Mount Rushmore State shouldn’t be put off by the strict pet regulations in place at Mount Rushmore National Memorial. Book a stay a short drive away at Under Canvas Mount Rushmore, Gold Camp Cabins, La Quinta by Wyndham Rapid City, Roosevelt Inn, Bavarian Inn Black Hills, or one of many other pet-friendly hotels around Mount Rushmore. Traveling Terriers will love the exceptional pet amenities on offer at these lodgings, including on-site dog parks, pet-friendly hiking trails and goodie bags with treats and more. During a day trip to the memorial, leashed dogs are welcome to join their owners on Blackberry Trail, a designated National Recreational Trail with a moderate rating. Or, follow the yellow paw prints from the parking lot to the pet exercise area that will take you and your pooch on a shady walk under the pines to a lovely view of Mount Rushmore at sunset.

Start planning your vacation to Mount Rushmore, check rates and get the most up-to-date pet policies at all pet-friendly hotels, activities and restaurants on BringFido’s website or mobile app. Remember that when you book with BringFido, you enjoy the benefit of our Pet Friendly Guarantee, and you’ll never pay a booking fee. When you're ready to make a reservation, save time and book online or call us at 877-411-3436 to speak to one of our friendly agents. Either way, our service is free.

Have you visited Mount Rushmore with your dog? Leave a comment or tweet us @BringFido!

Banner photo by Unsplash/Jéan Béller.