Crazy Horse Memorial®
At the request of Chief Henry Standing Bear, Korczak Ziolkowski began work on Crazy Horse Memorial in 1948. Once complete, this tribute to the Lakota leader will be the largest mountain carving in South Dakota and the world. See history in the making, and don’t miss the on-site Indian Museum of North America® and the Native American Educational & Cultural Center®’s educational and cultural programming.
Below, you’ll find trip-planning tools and frequently asked visitor questions to help you plan your next great adventure to Crazy Horse Memorial!
Plan Your Trip
Visit with Native artisans, try children's activities and games, and see one-of-a-kind artifacts. Of special note is the Edward S. Curtis photo collection.
In a location that incorporates Korczak's love of wood and natural lighting, the museum's collection reflects the histories, cultures and landmarks of the American Indian people.
Gather together and celebrate. Check the Crazy Horse Memorial calendar of events to see what's happening during your visit, from dance performances to storytelling to art shows.
Visit the original Korczak Ziolkowski family home, where Korczak's many sculptural works from before and after he arrived in the Black Hills still reside.
The first full weekend in June and following the Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup in September, join thousands of hikers for the 6.2-mile (10-km) trek to the carving's arm, 500 feet above the ground.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the closest airport to Crazy Horse Memorial?
Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP) is the nearest flight hub to all western South Dakota destinations, and is located just 45 miles east of Crazy Horse Memorial. Allegiant, American Airlines, Delta, United and Boutique Air all fly into and out of the airport.
What is the driving distance to nearby U.S. cities from Crazy Horse Memorial?
Crazy Horse Memorial, like nearby Mount Rushmore National Memorial, is in rugged, remote country far from major cities. The closest city, Rapid City, is 40 miles from the park. Casper and Cheyenne, Wyoming, are 207 and 254 miles away, respectively. Denver is 354 miles away, and Billings, Montana, is 350 miles away.
What is the best time of year to visit Crazy Horse Memorial?
The summer is the most popular time to visit Crazy Horse Memorial. If you’d prefer to come when it's a little cooler and quieter, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of April and May and September and October.
What are the busiest times of week to visit Crazy Horse Memorial?
The summer is the most active time of the year for both this massive work of art and the Native American heritage museums that are on the property. While it usually doesn’t get too busy, Crazy Horse Memorial does see a higher volume of visitors around midday. Park operating hours are 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
What is the climate, geographic information and history of Crazy Horse Memorial?
Crazy Horse Memorial is situated in an area of western South Dakota that is sunny more than half the year, and receives about double the national average snowfall. Summertime highs are usually around 80 degrees Fahrenheit with winter lows in the teens, so prepare appropriately before visiting. The memorial is located within the remote Black Hills National Forest, within convenient driving distance from Mount Rushmore National Memorial.
Crazy Horse Memorial’s history is tied to Oglala Lakota chief Henry Standing Bear’s friendship with sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski, who was hired to build a monument to the famed Lakota leader. Ziolkowski began work on the sculpture in 1948, and work on the monument continues today.
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12151 Avenue of the Chiefs
Crazy Horse, SD57730
United States
The Travel South Dakota Stories
Episode 3: Legends in Stone
Join us to uncover what makes Indigenous culture in South Dakota so unique. As you hear these stories and the history of this fascinating heritage, you’ll soon discover that you need to experience South Dakota for yourself!
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History and adventure abound along and on the waters of the Mighty Mo’. Free-flowing sections and four reservoirs — Lake Oahe, Lake Sharpe, Lake Francis Case and Lewis & Clark Lake — are prime for fishing, boating and water recreation.
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Korczak Ziolkowski began work on Crazy Horse Memorial in 1948. Once complete, this tribute to the Lakota leader will be the largest mountain carving in South Dakota, and the world. The on-site Indian Museum of North America and the Native American Educational & Cultural Center also provide opportunities to learn and explore.