If you’re looking for fun and adventure during your time in the Black Hills, be sure and check out Rush Mountain Adventure Park, located just 7.5 miles from the Powder House Lodge and Restaurant in the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota.
Rush Mountain, possibly best known as being home to Rushmore Cave, is located less than 10 miles from Mount Rushmore, and is the closest cave to the monument. Rushmore Cave has had visitors exploring its tunnels and passages since the 1870’s. However, it was in the 1950s that it truly started becoming the attraction it is today as tours were given 24 hours a day by kerosene lanterns. As time passed, improvements were made with cement stairways and the inclusion of electric lights.
Today, the cave offers tours on a constant, rotating basis throughout the summer. Tours last approximately 1 hour and are considered moderately strenuous as there are several stairs, but there is plenty of breaks and stopping along the way as you make your way through the Post Office, the Floral Room, and the Big Room.
Once you are done with the cave tour, head over to the Soaring Eagle Zip Line. This family-friendly attraction allows you to soar down the 630 foot suspended cable on side by side seats, before being pulled back up to the top. Afraid of heights and don’t want to go through the hassles of getting in a harness? Not a problem, as you sit in formed seats before being buckled in and they send you on your way.
The fun doesn’t end there though. Meander a little further and you will find the Gunslinger 7-D Theater. This interactive multi-sensory attraction is great for all ages as you feel the seat move, and the wind in your hair. They currently have 3 different games/options with “Los Banditos” being a fan favorite. For the older kids, and fans of The Walking Dead don’t leave without doing the “Zombies” as well, it’s our personal favorite.
New in the fall of 2016 is the Rushmore Mountain Coaster. This Mountain Coaster features 1 or 2 person carts securely attached to rails that twist and turn their way through the trees and mountainside reaching speeds up to 30 mph. Don’t worry though, the rider controls his or her speed on this exciting new ride. This great attraction is fun for all ages and is a ride you won’t soon forget.