The visitor center at Jewel Cave National Monument is open Monday through Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Mountain Time.
There is no entrance fee to explore Jewel Cave National Monument’s visitor center, exhibits, gift shop, and surface trails. However, ranger-led cave tours require tickets: $16 for adults 16 and over, $8 for youth ages 6-15, and free for children ages 5 and under.
From Rapid City, take U.S. Highway 16 west for 54 miles, immersing yourself in the Black Hills’ serene landscape before discovering an underground world of breathtaking beauty.
Parking is available near the Visitor Center for cars, motorcycles, and smaller RVs. No overnight parking permitted. No parking fees. Limited spaces available.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:None
Jewel Cave National Monument, situated in the heart of South Dakota, is a subterranean marvel that beckons adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. As the third-longest cave system in the world, it boasts over 220 miles of mapped and surveyed passages, an underground wilderness teeming with fragile formations and vibrant colors.
Above ground, the 1,279-acre park is a tapestry of natural beauty, with the Roof Trail offering a leisurely stroll near the visitor center, complete with picnic tables and benches. For the more intrepid, the 3.5-mile Canyons Trail winds through Lithograph and Hell canyons, providing breathtaking vistas and a chance to spot recently reintroduced bighorn sheep in the Historic Area.
The cave itself is a sensory feast, with the Scenic Tour guiding visitors through a half-mile loop marked by over 700 stairs and an array of crystalline structures. The Historic Lantern Tour, conducted by park rangers, transports participants back in time, navigating narrow passageways lit only by lanterns. For the truly adventurous, the Wild Caving Tour offers an immersive, physically demanding exploration of the cave’s less accessible areas.
In the Historic Area, the 1935 Civilian Conservation Corps-built cabin stands as a testament to the monument’s rich history. Seasonal changes bring new life to the park, with interpretive podcasts and ranger-led tours enhancing the visitor experience. As the sun sets, the forest above the cave comes alive with the sounds of wildlife, inviting travelers to linger and absorb the unique character of this underground wonder. Whether you are drawn to the scientific mysteries of the cave or the serene beauty of the surrounding landscape, Jewel Cave National Monument is an unforgettable destination for those seeking an extraordinary natural experience.
- Area (mi²)
- 2
- Established year
- 1908
Top 3 Facts about Jewel Cave National Monument
The cave’s air volume is estimated to be around 8 billion cubic feet, with airflow studies indicating it “exhales” and “inhales” air based on outside pressure changes, suggesting the total length could be between 4,400 and 7,300 miles.
In this pristine landscape, ponderosa pine forests and mixed-grass prairies dominate, with wildflowers like crocus, shootingstar, and ground phlox blooming vibrantly in spring. The area is home to bighorn sheep, mule deer, and mountain lions, while nine species of snakes, including the rare prairie rattlesnake, inhabit the rocky terrain. Over 1,000 bats from ten species hibernate in the cave, and a variety of birds, including birds of prey and woodpeckers, migrate through the region annually. This diverse ecosystem offers a rich tapestry of wildlife and flora, making it an enticing destination for nature enthusiasts.
Above the subterranean wonders, the 1,279-acre park features the 3.5-mile Canyons Trail, which winds through Lithograph and Hell canyons, offering glimpses of recently reintroduced bighorn sheep. The terrain is punctuated by unique rock formations and scenic vistas, with the trail elevating through diverse ecosystems under the South Dakota sky.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Night Sky & Astronomy
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Scavenger HuntsOMBREMENTioned as part of broader programs
- but not explicitly listed as scavenger hunts)
- Virtual Junior Activities IMPLIED through Junior Cave Scientist program.
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan ahead for summer visits, as tours often sell out by midday. Book tickets in advance via Recreation.gov. Wear comfortable shoes and layers for 49°F temperatures. Allow a few hours or a full day to explore, and check the Visitor Center for tour times and special events like the Historic Lantern Tour, which restarts each summer season. Bring water and snacks, as on-site options are limited. Anticipate moderate physical activity and rest breaks during tours.[‘
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for unpredictable weather, sturdy footwear, and a backpack with essentials like water, snacks, sunscreen, and a map. Bring a headlamp and first aid kit for extended stays. Check the season for additional gear like warm hat and gloves or rain jacket.
Respect Wildlife
Respect the habitat: avoid feeding wildlife, don’t pick plants, and keep a safe distance from animals. Wear closed shoes for cave tours and avoid visiting bat hibernation areas from October to May. Leave nothing behind but footprints.
Stay Informed
Exercise caution on trails and near ledges, avoid flooding areas during storms, and stay informed about weather and fire restrictions. Carry a first-aid kit and know emergency contact numbers. Move slowly, watch your step, and stay within earshot of your group. Call 911 for emergencies.
Seasons
Spring brings mild temperatures (40s-60s°F) and varied weather to this Black Hills gem. Witness the pasqueflower bloom (March-May) and enjoy ranger-guided cave tours, nature hikes, and interpretive talks amidst blooming wildflowers and scenic trails.
Explore the world’s third-largest cave in the Black Hills during summer’s warm months (June to August, 70s-80s°F). Enjoy mild weather and special events like Junior Caver Day in July, with hands-on crafts and expert insights. Ideal for families and adventure seekers. Advance tour reservations recommended.
Visit in fall, from September to November, for mild temperatures (40s-60s°F) and fewer crowds. Enjoy crisp days with sunny to cool, rainy, and windy weather. The Historic Lantern Tour ends in October, making it a must-see before it closes for the season.
Explore the serene winter landscape from December to February, with daytime temperatures in the low 40s and evenings below freezing. Fewer crowds, crisp air, and snow-covered trails make for a tranquil, exclusive experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Jewel Cave National Monument has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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To visit Jewel Cave National Monument, you should stay in Custer, South Dakota, as most hotels and lodges are just minutes away from Custer and a short drive from the monument. Custer is centrally located near other famous landmarks like Mount Rushmore National Memorial and Wind Cave National Park.
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You can bring your dog to certain areas, but it must be on a six-foot leash and under your control. Dogs are allowed in the picnic areas near the visitor center, along paved roads, and in the Jewel Cave Historic Area, but they are not permitted on hiking trails, service roads, or inside buildings and the cave. Owners must clean up after their dogs.
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Parking is free, and it is available for various types of vehicles, including campers, trailers, motorhomes, and camper vans, though there is no specific mention of size restrictions for RVs like Class A, Class B, or Class C.
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Yes, guided tours are available and required to enter the cave. Tours include the 20-minute Discovery Tour and the 1 hour and 20 minutes Scenic Tour, which are offered at scheduled times that vary by season. Tours depart from the elevator in the visitor center.