Located in the Black Hills of South Dakota is one of the United States’ most well-recognized national memorials: Mount Rushmore.

The attraction hosts over two million visitors annually who come to gaze up at the 60-foot-tall heads of Presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln, all chiseled into the granite cliffs.

If you’ve been thinking about heading there yourself and are trying to find out the best time to visit Mount Rushmore, here are some tips and guidelines to help you get started.

About Mount Rushmore National Memorial

In 1925, the U.S. government authorized the creation of Mount Rushmore as a national memorial. Two years later, sculptor Gutzon Borglum began work on the monument, which was finally finished in 1941 — after 14 years of work.

Now, visitors who venture to the Black Hills can witness the impressive feat of artistry and engineering from the road or walk down the Avenue of Flags, a walkway flanked by 56 U.S. state, district, territory and commonwealth flags that leads to a viewing platform at the base of the carving.

Hiking trails, self-guided tours and ranger-led programs are also available for those who want to explore more of the culture and history around the memorial.

The monument is operated as part of the National Park Service.

Best time of year for visiting Mount Rushmore

The best time to go to Mount Rushmore depends largely on what you hope to accomplish while you’re there.

The park itself is accessible seven days a week, 365 days a year. The only day the park buildings, including the visitor center and bathrooms, are closed is Christmas day (Dec. 25).