A Day at Crazy Horse Monument: A Journey into South Dakota’s Heart

Fees and Entry

Now, let’s talk logistics—because no adventure is complete without a bit of planning. As I pulled up to the entrance booth, I was greeted with a smile and a bit of info about the fees. The entrance fee is $35 per carload, which covers all passengers in your vehicle. If you’re riding solo like I was, there’s an option to pay $15 per person. 

Parking, luckily, doesn’t have an extra fee, which was a pleasant surprise given how many places charge separately for it. So, you can park your car and explore without worrying about any additional costs.

The Monument and Visitor Experience

The monument itself is still under construction, and it’s been a work in progress since 1948. When you stand in front of it, you can’t help but be amazed by the sheer scale and the ambition of what’s being created here. It’s the world’s largest mountain carving, and when completed, it will depict Crazy Horse, the legendary Lakota warrior, riding his horse and pointing into the distance.

Inside the visitor center, there’s a wealth of information about the monument’s history, the Lakota people, and the vision of sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski, who started the project. The exhibits are well worth your time, providing a deep dive into the cultural significance of Crazy Horse and the ongoing efforts to complete this monumental sculpture.

Beyond the Monument

There’s more to do here than just gaze up at the mountain. I took a walk around the grounds, which are beautiful in their own right. The Native American Educational & Cultural Center offers additional insight, with exhibits, art, and performances that give you a richer understanding of the local indigenous cultures.

If you’re feeling adventurous (and don’t mind spending a bit more), there’s a bus ride that takes you closer to the monument. For $4 extra, it’s a great way to get a closer look at the work being done. If you’re lucky, you might even catch workers blasting or chipping away at the rock—an experience that really brings home the monument’s scale and the effort going into its completion.

Reflections

As I left the monument and headed back to my car, I couldn’t help but reflect on the experience. Crazy Horse Monument isn’t just a tourist attraction—it’s a living, breathing project that speaks to the resilience and pride of the Lakota people. It’s a reminder of the history that shaped this land and the importance of remembering and honoring that past.

If you ever find yourself in South Dakota, take the time to visit Crazy Horse. It’s more than worth the trip, and it’s a place that will leave you thinking long after you’ve left. 

So, pack your bags, fill up the tank, and hit the road—Crazy Horse is waiting.

This was my experience at Crazy Horse Monument—what about yours? Have you been there? What were your impressions? Let’s chat in the comments below!