As everyone else has said, definitely go! You won't regret it. I went in the mid-70s on my way back to California from Chicago, and as I remember it was very rustic then. Sorry to hear it's been "developed." I remember back then there were so many trees that you didn't really see the mountain itself until you mounted the platform, and then there it was soaring overhead. The effect was fantastic and humbling. We also went to see this Mt. Rushmore cave system and went on the tour; anybody know if that is still operating? It was waaaay off the road, and a series of signs led us farther and farther, but being young, we persevered, and it was worthwhile with all the underground rock formations.