Mount Rushmore!!!

As we drove to the National Monument, it was quite the ride.  :)
There are beautiful views of the area with towering trees and peaceful valleys, but then you come to some VERY narrow, winding roads that lead to this tunnel!  It is literally wide enough for only ONE vehicle at a time, so you have to honk to warn anyone that may be on the opposite side coming through.  UG!  Pretty cool, though, and it sure created great anticipation.  :)

Once you park, and walk up a few stairs or use the elevator, you are welcomed by concrete entrances and collumns, a visitor center, and the Hall of Flags....All centered with the monument.  I was just amazed.  We were all just amazed!  You cannot help but stare and smile.  It was just wonderful!

There are many rocks to climb on and a President's Trail that gives many great views of the Black Hills as well as the Monument.  Zach was excited to walk on the trail and recognized the same spot from the film, National Treasure II!  :)

On site, there is THE Sculptor's Studio, where Borglum did much of his work.  The artist also had two other studio locations.  One down the mountain, and one in the nearby town of Keystone, so he could look at the "job site" from far away.

Here is the actual model that Borglum constructed for the project.  He never finished to completion, however, I am in awe what he and the determined crew of workers were able to accomplish in only 14 years!  In that 14 year time span, it was really only 6 years that they were able to actually work, because of snow or money.  6 years.....It is said, that the faces on Mt. Rushmore are as smooth as a sidewalk!  :)

Inside the studio, a Ranger gave a great talk about the history of the area and the man, Borglum.  He did a really good job, and also showed the kinds of tools used to make the great monument.  The kids could actually hold them and get a "feel" of what it might be like dangling from ropes in a metal chair, hundreds of feet in the sky, with a 40 pound jack-hammer!

Ofcourse, we did the Jr. Ranger program, and I must say, it was the MOST challenging for Tanner!  His age group has quite the workbook, and demands a true "search and study" inside of the museum.  He finished the task, with out sweat or tears, however, we were all a little pooped by the end!  ;)

They even had a book for little Parker to earn a badge, so he was thrilled!
Good job!

This experience was just awe inspiring.  I feel SO blessed and proud to be an American.  I am so thankful for the patriotism and love of country that this place pours into its visitors.  :)
I want to encourage any family considering a trip, to come here!  Last year, there were over 3 million visitors!  It is SO worth the time and cost of travel to come to the Black Hills, and experience the magnitude of Mt. Rushmore! 

Blessings,
Steph