In the early morning light, I stood before Mount Rushmore staring at the colossal faces of four American presidents carved into the granite of the Black Hills looming above me. Each towering head, standing nearly 60 feet tall, projected an air of authority across the surrounding landscape.
Next, I visited the Grand View Terrace, which, true to its name. There, I could see the breathtaking panorama of the monument. From there, I embarked on the Presidential Trail, approximately 1 kilometer in length, which allowed me to see the majestic faces upclose. The trail was relatively easy-going, except for the 422 stairs.
I made sure to stop by the Sculptor’s Studio, one of Gutzon Borglum’s two on-site studios. The studio housed plaster models, tools, and exhibits detailing the intricate carving process. It was fascinating to see the behind-the-scenes work that went into bringing Mount Rushmore to life.
After reliving the history and craftsmanship of the monument, I ventured into the natural wonders of the Black Hills. In Custer State Park, I encountered herds of bison roaming freely. Nothing makes me more happy than wildlife in their natural habitat. Driving along the Needles Highway, I admired the rugged beauty of the granite spires and alpine lakes.
Finally, I paid a visit to Crazy Horse Memorial, where the massive sculpture of the legendary Lakota warrior stood as a work in progress. It served as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle for Native American rights and recognition.
