Today, we’re taking you on a journey to one of South Dakota’s most recognizable landmarks and a true highlight of the upcoming South Dakota DLC for American Truck Simulator: Mount Rushmore! Set among the rugged beauty of the Black Hills, this iconic monument is also the reason South Dakota is officially known as the “Mount Rushmore State,” and it’s sure to be one of the most memorable sights you’ll encounter while exploring the state.
Standing high above the surrounding landscape, Mount Rushmore features the monumental granite faces of four U.S. presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. Carved into the side of the mountain between 1927 and 1941, the monument has become one of the most famous landmarks in the United States, attracting millions of visitors from around the world each year.
Players will also be able to experience the impressive sight of Mount Rushmore from the roads running through the Black Hills. Nearby, you’ll also find the small town of Keystone, a popular gateway to the monument and the surrounding attractions. With its charming downtown, unique Western-style character, and location surrounded by the Black Hills, Keystone makes for a great stop as you explore this scenic corner of South Dakota. The town is also home to a depot for the historic 1880 Train, a steam-powered excursion railroad connecting Keystone and Hill City along an original late-1800s mining route.
The journey to Mount Rushmore also gives you the opportunity to experience some of the area's scenic roads. US-16, also known as Mount Rushmore Road, connects Keystone with nearby communities and offers beautiful views as it winds through the Black Hills. Along the way, you’ll pass through several tunnels, some of which offer a unique view of Mount Rushmore framed in the distance. For an even more memorable drive, you can take the scenic US-16A, also known as the Iron Mountain Road. With its winding route, forested surroundings, and carefully designed curves, this road is an adventure in itself.
As you make your way through the Black Hills, keep your eyes peeled for the many scenic views and natural landmarks surrounding the roads. The landscape here is quite different from the wide-open plains found elsewhere in South Dakota, with dense forests, rugged rock formations, and curvy mountain roads creating a unique driving experience. The Black Hills are also steeped in motorcycle culture, with the region being a popular destination for riders and enthusiasts. You may spot a few of them parked at some of the area’s parking lots, adding another touch of local character to your journey.
Mount Rushmore is just one of the many highlights waiting for you in our upcoming South Dakota DLC for American Truck Simulator. Whether you’re making a delivery, exploring the Black Hills, or simply taking the scenic route, there will be plenty of opportunities to stop, look around, and enjoy the views!
We can’t wait for you to experience South Dakota for yourself. If you’re excited about this map expansion, be sure to add the South Dakota DLC to your Steam wishlist! Don't forget to follow us on X/Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Bluesky, and YouTube, or sign up for our newsletter. Until then, keep your engines running and stay tuned for more news from the Mount Rushmore State!