Update: 9/9/2025 After posting my initial review regarding a flight time discrepancy, the management team was quick to respond. Mindy reached out by phone and apologized for the experience. She explained their thorough tracking process which shows they take accountability seriously. Most importantly, they followed through on their word and issued a refund promptly. This kind of responsive and honest customer service is rare. That completely changed my opinion of our full experience. Thank you for making it right! Their professional response to criticism speaks volumes about their integrity. I truly appreciate the excellent customer service and will consider using them again because of how they handled this. I will gladly recommend them to friends, family, and future customers. 9/8/25 My family (my wife, son, and I) took the Black Elk Peak helicopter tour with BH Helicopters today, September 8, 2025. While there were positive aspects, we were ultimately disappointed by the significantly short flight time. The tour is advertised as a 20 minute flight but ours lasted only 15 minutes. For a price of $169.99 per person, which is nearly $80 more than their next package, this shortage is significant. The flight felt rushed, cutting into the time we were most looking forward to for soaking in the aerial views. We also experienced a brief billing error where our card was charged for another couple, though it was refunded promptly. Booking and checking in were easy, and the entire staff was kind and professional. Due to a combination of prior bookings and a weather hold, we had a two-hour wait. The facility was well-equipped with games and knick-knacks, which made the wait time pass comfortably. Our pilot was informative and skilled. The views of Black Elk Peak and the surrounding landscape were absolutely breathtaking and exactly what we hoped to see. We had an overall good experience, but the high cost relative to the actual flight time left us upset. The price would be reasonable if the advertised 20 minutes were met. We hope this feedback helps ensure future flights provide the full duration promised. read more

What an incredible experience! Before anything, I'd just like to say that the building is beautiful. It's a large open space with a sitting area. There's also a space to order refreshments to drink while you wait. Upon entering, we were greeted delightfully by the whole staff. We got checked in, weighed and briefed on all of the safety. They definitely put safety first and foremost which is great, especially for me who was nervous about flying for the first time in a helicopter. Our pilot was Matt and we had a great time. I learned that he had been flying for quite a long time, which helped to keep me at ease. He showed us how the helicopter works. He's also funny, so it made for an even more enjoyable ride. We flew for about 15 minutes and were able to see Sylvan Lake, Mt. Rushmore, and the Cathedral Spires! The views were amazing, even with the sun going down. If you are looking to do a helicopter ride in Keystone, I highly recommend this company! read more

Highly recommended! The pilot, Andrew Busse was very knowledgeable, skilled and kind. We have flown in a helicopter in Hawaii and thought we would never want to go on another flight; however, our son who's never been in a helicopter convinced us to go. It was his first time in a helicopter. We're glad we went. We were able to see Mount Rushmore from the sky as well as other points of interest, which Andrew pointed out. The flight was smooth, peaceful and amazing! We didn't get the young ladies name at the reception desk, but she was very friendly and the price was reasonable. There was also a young man and older gentleman who help us onto the aircraft, explained the safety features and were also very kind. Thank you everyone at Black Hills Helicopter! read more

These guys were so great! They were local and very well versed in the landscape and history of South Dakota. I learned a lot in a 20 minute flight! Our helicopter was obviously well-maintained, clean and comfortable and the staff were courteous and knowledgeable. Not only that, their home base was a great place to hang out and enjoy the gorgeous view with a nice glass of wine and a snack. We were there for a photo shoot and they took great care of our whole crew but they were every bit as fantastic with people who were coming in just for a regular ride. I also appreciate that their website completely breaks down their pricing so you know exactly what you are paying for without baiting you with a cheap upfront teaser price. read more

A great staff!! Happy, knowledgeable, and responsive. The location is perfect. Easy to find. The heli ride at sunset was maginficent ! Andrew was a superb pilot, excellent narrator and smooth flying. Very confident and relaxed and easy to understand. Extensive knowledge of the area since born and raised here but years of military experience flying to very well trained. Impressive aircraft and safety measures in place to get back and forth to the aircraft. Quite personalized service and attentive to our questions and concerns. Would definitely go up again and worth every penny to get this glimpse of the area. Great historical information from Andrew. Wishing them all much success and happy flying !! read more

This was one of my most enjoyable helicopter rides/tours that I've experienced. From the start via their web site, through text and email updates to the end of the ride, Black Hills Helicopters displayed experience, competence, and dedication to the tours they provide. Safety is of the upmost concern for Andrew and his crew, delaying our departure for one hour due to high winds followed by explicit safety procedures prior to our flight. During the flight Andrew was very informative with not only Mount Rushmore but also the surrounding area, historically and geologically. For anyone contemplating a helicopter tour I would highly recommend Black Hills Helicopters, you will not be disappointed. read more

We were looking for something FUN to do as a family in the Black Hills and are very glad we picked to do a tour with BH helicopters. Our girls are still bragging to their friends about : that "COOL" flight over Mnt Rushmore. The staff was beyond friendly and made sure the girls felt safe and excited before the flight! Our pilot was very knowledgeable of the Black Hills history which was really neat to hear as we saw all of the sites the Black Hills has to offer. Their new building Had a great inviting feeling with HUge windows to look out on Hills . We would totally recommend this to anyone wanting a " Great EXPERIENCE " that they will remember and talk about. read more

From the moment we walked on the door, the staff of Black Hills Helicopter was friendly, professional, and accommodating. We wanted to go for a tour immediately so Andy the owner offered to take us up in the Bell 407 which is a gorgeous comfortable and quiet ride. He was super knowledgeable about all things South Dakota and was quick to point out all the best photo opportunities as we went. He was especially kind to our 12 yo who was taking her first helicopter ride. Totally worth every $$. I would highly recommend Black Hills Helicopters to anyone considering a trip. A great way to see a lot of sights in a short amount of time. read more

Andrew is the owner and operator and your pilot He does a great job of making your experience exceptional. Veterans receive 5% off and that is appreciated. He is a very nice young man and I recommend you support him and his new business. All employees were friendly and a positive attitude. A few extras for me were deeply appreciated. He is a member of the National Guard, a member of one of the emergency flight helicopter companies, and a instructor pilot of helicopter aviation. Nice young mans and knows the history of the area as well as customer satisfaction. Top notch. read more

Wow! What an amazing experience! Our pilot, Andrew, was very accommodating and gave us a fantastic tour over one of the most beautiful areas in the Black Hills. He is very knowledgeable and a skilled pilot. I am in the aviation field myself can tell that safety is a top priority for this company and that no short cuts are taken. It is also evident that the goal of this business is to make the entire experience enjoyable and memorable, not just the flight portion. I highly reccomend you spend the money for an experience you will never forget! read more

This tour was one of the most amazing experiences I have ever had! I went on the South Hills tour and let me tell you, it is worth every penny. I am from the Black Hills area and have spent ample amounts of time in the hills and I can genuinely say that seeing it from a birds eye POV is something that can't be beat. Andrew and his staff are all extremely kind and helpful: ask if you have questions! They are happy to answer. Overall, it was an incredible experience and I would highly recommend it to anyone in the Black Hills area! read more

Absolutely excellent experience with Paolo who was a great pilot, with terrific historic information that added substantially to the 30 minute experience. So the pilot also served as a great and personable guide as well. In addition, the staff was extremely helpful and courteous before and after the flight. We had made a reservation and were so pleased with the professionalism and quality of the experience. It is clear that safety is a high priority with this company. My family and I give them our highest recommendation. read more

My first time doing a helicopter ride. The staff there was outstanding. There were some isolated thunderstorms moving through so they had us wait 30 minutes or so just to ensure our safety. Hospitality was great. Very professional. The tour itself was a very smooth ride. The pilot did a great job pointing out all of the interesting landmarks and adding some points of history to go along with it. The staff even helped us plan some of the activities for the rest of our trip. Highly recommend this team. read more

What an incredible experience! I was so nervous about doing this, and I have to say, NO REGRETS!!! I was able to see Mount Rushmore in a way I never believed I could and it was AWESOME!!! Our pilot was patient, understanding of my fears, and ensured that I was engaged and comfortable the whole flight! I want to do it again!!! The Black Hills are spectacular, and from this vantage point, forever in my memory, and one the components making it a top rated vacation experience! Safe travels! read more

This was a great change of pace. My wife had not been to Mount Rushmore for many years. As we were driving I noticed Black Hills Helicopters. My wife, never being on a helicopter was a little nervous, ten seconds on the flight and she was having the time of her life! Great Pilot, (active veteran) and nice equipment. I would do it again in a heartbeat. Very knowledgeable about the local area and the history surrounding the presidents. AWESOME, don't pass this up! read more

We had an incredible experience with Black Hills Helicopters! The views were absolutely breathtaking, and our pilot was exceptional. Not only was the ride smooth and safe, but the pilot was also so knowledgeable and friendly, making the whole journey even more enjoyable. They took the time to point out all the landmarks and ensure we had the best experience possible. Highly recommend this for anyone visiting the Black Hills--it's a memory we'll cherish forever! read more

Our Family of 12 all got the amazing opportunity to take a flight "Thunderhead trip" it was an amazing 30min flight. our polite Andrew was fantastic and very knowledgeable about the area! we had a great time and the kids were so excited and smiling when it was all said and done! and teenagers are hard to please so haveing all 6 of them with smiles on their face as a Mom made my day!! Thank you Anna and Andrew! We will be making another trip back soon! read more

Andy gave us a tour overlooking the Black Hills and is one of the most knowledgeable people I've ever met! He answered all the questions I had about the Black Hills such as the history, wildlife in the area, and the geological and topographical history of the area. Black Hills Helicopters gives each passenger their own unique experience that will leave quite the impression on anyone interested in flying here. Would definitely fly again! Thanks! read more

Had a chance to experience the Epic tour from Black Hills Helicopters and it was an awesome experience! Can't wait to go up again and see the hills from above. Andy is a very experienced pilot and he knows so many interesting facts about the Black Hills and their history. We were able to see all of the main sights in about 40 minutes (Mt Rushmore, Crazy Horse, Custer State Park, Sylvan Lake, the needles). An experience I will never forget! read more