Rushmore Tramway Adventures | Keystone

Rushmore Tramway Adventures is one of the most dynamic attractions in the Mount Rushmore area, located in Keystone, South Dakota. Blending the thrill of outdoor adventure with spectacular views of the Black Hills, it offers a mix of family-friendly rides, zipline experiences, alpine slides, and treetop courses-all surrounded by lush pine forests and dramatic granite peaks. Positioned just a few minutes from Mount Rushmore National Memorial, the park provides both excitement and scenic immersion in the same landscape that inspired one of America’s most famous monuments.

Setting and Atmosphere

Perched on the hillside above Keystone, Rushmore Tramway Adventures overlooks the town and the distant faces of Mount Rushmore itself. The air is filled with the scent of pine and the hum of the tramway cables as gondolas glide steadily up the slope. Visitors often pause mid-ride to admire panoramic views stretching across the Black Hills, catching glimpses of the granite profile of George Washington between the trees.

The atmosphere is lively yet relaxed-families, hikers, and adventurers share the trails and platforms, while the wind rustles through the trees and mountain bluebirds dart overhead.

History and Concept

The adventure park began as a modest chairlift attraction in the mid-1960s, offering visitors a unique way to view the Black Hills. Over time, it expanded into a full-fledged mountain adventure park, combining alpine-style recreation with interpretive appreciation of the surrounding landscape. Today, it’s operated as a locally owned destination focused on sustainable outdoor fun that complements rather than competes with the natural setting.

Main Attractions

Scenic Chairlift and Aerial Tramway

The Scenic Chairlift is the park’s signature feature and one of the most relaxing ways to enjoy the area. It carries visitors gently up the mountain to an elevated platform that provides unobstructed views of Mount Rushmore from a unique angle. At the summit, guests can step off for photos, a meal, or to explore other adventure zones. The tramway cabins-enclosed gondolas added for comfort-make the experience accessible for all ages and weather conditions.

Grille and Mountain Top Experience

At the top sits the Mountaintop Grille, a casual open-air restaurant where visitors can dine with one of the best panoramic views in the Black Hills. The terrace overlooks Mount Rushmore, creating a peaceful contrast between adrenaline and stillness.

Alpine Slide

For those seeking excitement, the Alpine Slide provides a thrilling descent back down the mountain. Riders sit on individual sleds that zip along a smooth, winding track through pine trees, with speed controlled by hand brakes. It’s fast, fun, and accessible for both kids and adults.

Zipline Adventures

The Mount Rushmore Zipline system features several parallel lines that send riders soaring high above the forest floor. The ziplines vary in length and speed, offering everything from introductory glides to high-speed descents that exceed 30 miles per hour. The views of granite cliffs and forested slopes add to the sense of exhilaration.

Aerial Adventure Park

The Aerial Adventure Park challenges visitors with a series of rope bridges, climbing nets, and balance elements suspended among the trees. Divided into courses of varying difficulty, it’s suitable for children, families, and skilled climbers alike. Safety harnesses and guides ensure a secure and confidence-building experience.

Tubing Hill and Playground Zone

For younger visitors, the park includes a tubing hill with soft synthetic surfaces and smaller play zones where children can climb, slide, and explore in a controlled environment.

Visitor Experience

The park is designed for all comfort levels-some come for the chairlift views, others for the adrenaline rush of the ziplines or alpine slide. Staff members provide detailed safety briefings and gear assistance, and the park’s layout allows guests to choose their level of adventure without feeling rushed or crowded.

Many visitors combine an active morning here with an afternoon visit to Mount Rushmore, making it a perfect complement to the area’s historical and scenic attractions. In summer, the site buzzes with energy, but early mornings and late afternoons often bring quieter moments with long shadows over the Black Hills.

Visitor Information

Location: 203 Cemetery Road, Keystone, South Dakota (just off Highway 16A)

Season: Typically open from late May through early October

Hours: Vary by season; generally from morning to sunset

Attractions: Chairlift, Alpine Slide, Zipline, Aerial Adventure Park, Mountain Top Grille

Admission: Individual activity pricing or bundled passes available

Accessibility: The chairlift and tramway are accessible to most visitors; other activities have age and height requirements

Facilities: Parking area, restrooms, café, gift shop, and picnic spots

Closing Impression

Rushmore Tramway Adventures captures the lively, adventurous side of the Black Hills. With its blend of natural scenery and hands-on excitement, it offers a mountain experience that’s as much about joy as it is about awe. Whether gliding above the treetops or racing down the alpine slide, visitors leave with the sound of wind in their ears and a lasting image of Mount Rushmore framed by endless blue sky.