Are Pets Allowed at Mount Rushmore?

If you're planning a trip to Mount Rushmore, you may be wondering if you can bring your furry friend along. After all, what's a road trip without your dog?

Service Animals

Service animals are always welcome at Mount Rushmore, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act. Service animals are dogs that are trained to perform tasks for individuals with disabilities.

If you have a service animal, you are allowed to bring it with you on the presidential trail and into most buildings on the memorial grounds.

Pets

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed at Mount Rushmore. This is because the memorial is a national park, and pets are not allowed in national parks.

There are a few exceptions to this rule. Pets are allowed in designated pet-friendly areas, such as the campground and the visitor center. However, pets are not allowed on the presidential trail, in the museum, or in any of the other buildings on the memorial grounds.

Why Are Pets Not Allowed at Mount Rushmore?

There are a few reasons why pets are not allowed at Mount Rushmore.

First, pets can damage the memorial. Dogs can scratch the granite sculptures, and cats can climb on the statues and leave behind fur and claws.

Second, pets can disturb the wildlife. Mount Rushmore is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, and bison. Pets can chase these animals, which can stress them out and cause them to flee.

Finally, pets can be a nuisance to other visitors. Dogs can bark and lunge at people, and cats can run around and get in the way.

What to Do If You Want to Bring Your Pet to Mount Rushmore

If you want to bring your pet to Mount Rushmore, you will need to make arrangements for boarding or pet sitting. There are a number of kennels and pet sitting services in the area that can accommodate your pet while you visit the memorial.