Crazy Horse May 2026

This photograph captures the ongoing progress of the Crazy Horse Memorial in the Black Hills of South Dakota as it appeared in May 2026. Carved into Thunderhead Mountain near Custer, the massive mountain sculpture continues to take shape, with remarkable detail now visible in both the face and the outstretched hand of Crazy Horse. A dirt road in the foreground leads your eyes to the majestic mountain carving.

The face of the famed Lakota warrior stands prominently against the granite mountainside, while the hand shows increasingly refined contours and definition, giving visitors a better sense of the monument's immense scale and the vision for the completed sculpture. The detailed carving work highlights the tremendous effort that has gone into the project since construction began in 1948 under the direction of sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski.

Set in the scenic Black Hills of western South Dakota, Crazy Horse Memorial is one of the largest mountain carving projects in the world and remains a popular destination for travelers exploring the region. Located near Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, and other Black Hills attractions, the memorial serves as both a monumental work of art and a tribute to the heritage and culture of Native Americans. This 2026 photograph documents a significant stage in the ongoing creation of one of America's most ambitious and recognizable monuments.

This photo was taken by Jennifer White with Timeless Moments Photography. All images are copyrighted Timeless Moments Photography/Jennifer White. All rights reserved.