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Get InspiredNorth AmericaUnited StatesSouth DakotaCusterJewel Cave National Monument

Jewel Cave National Monument

US
National Monument·Educational, Awe Inspiring, Natural
The target room inside Jewel Cave.
Photo by from Nps
Volunteer cave explorers discovered Hourglass Lake in October 2015, the first sizable body of water found within Jewel Cave.
Photo by from Nps
The Inner Sanctum is one of the longest and largest passageways along the Scenic Tour route, located near the Torture Room.
Photo by from Nps
The Brain Drain is approximately eight inches high by 24 inches wide and is the tightest passage on the Wild Caving Tour.
Photo by from Nps
The Heavenly Room is a large room along the Historic Lantern Tour within the historic entrance of Jewel Cave.
Photo by from Nps
The target room inside Jewel Cave.
Photo by from Nps
Volunteer cave explorers discovered Hourglass Lake in October 2015, the first sizable body of water found within Jewel Cave.
Photo by from Nps
The Inner Sanctum is one of the longest and largest passageways along the Scenic Tour route, located near the Torture Room.
Photo by from Nps
The Brain Drain is approximately eight inches high by 24 inches wide and is the tightest passage on the Wild Caving Tour.
Photo by from Nps
The Heavenly Room is a large room along the Historic Lantern Tour within the historic entrance of Jewel Cave.
Photo by from Nps
Calcite crystals, such as nailhead spar, cover most of the walls, ceilings, and floors within Jewel Cave.
Photo by from Nps
Rocky mountain bighorn sheep are commonly seen within the monument, usually along Highway 16.
Photo by from Nps
Red squirrels are commonly observed along the Roof Trail near the visitor center.
Photo by from Nps
Autumn is a beautiful time of year to visit the monument. The colors of fall are often the best during mid to late September.
Photo by from Nps
Although a "slower" time of year, the winter season offers some of the best scenery of the ponderosa pine forest.
Photo by from Nps
A portion of the Canyons Trail passes the historic entrance of Jewel Cave, with breathtaking views of nearby Hell Canyon.
Photo by from Nps
The monument hosts special events each summer, such as living history presentations of President Theodore Roosevelt.
Photo by from Nps
The original park ranger cabin, built during the 1930s, is available for public access during the summer and early fall seasons.
Photo by from Nps
The visitor center provides several engaging exhibits and displays about the resources within the monument.
Photo by from Nps
Jewel Cave is home to several species of wildflowers, such as the South Dakota State Flower - the pasque flower.
Photo by from Nps
Nine species of bats live within Jewel Cave National Monument. At times, visitors may see bats outside the historic entrance.
Photo by from Nps

Jewel Cave National Monument offers a rare glimpse into a vast subterranean world located in South Dakota's Black Hills. With over 220 miles of mapped passages, it stands as one of the longest cave systems globally, showcasing a complex maze of fragile formations and brilliant colors. Managed by the National Park Service, the monument highlights unique geological features that appeal to both casual visitors and scientific explorers. Visitors can experience the mystery of this hidden landscape, which remains a focal point for cave mapping and geological study. It is a premier destination for those looking to witness the natural splendor of Earth's underground wonders.

Jewel Cave National Monument offers a rare glimpse into a vast subterranean world located in South Dakota's Black Hills. With over 220 miles of mapped passages, it stands as one of the longest cave systems globally, showcasing a complex maze of fragile formations and brilliant colors. Managed by the National Park Service, the monument highlights unique geological features that appeal to both casual visitors and scientific explorers. Visitors can experience the mystery of this hidden landscape, which remains a focal point for cave mapping and geological study. It is a premier destination for those looking to witness the natural splendor of Earth's underground wonders.

Address
11149 U.S. Hwy. 16
Websitenps.gov
Phone6056738300

Highlights

  • One of the longest mapped cave systems in the world.

  • Over 220 miles of intricate subterranean passages.

  • Stunning, fragile geological formations and unique colors.

  • Managed by the National Park Service with professional guided tours.

Before you go: Jewel Cave National Monument essentials

  • The cave environment remains cool year-round; bring a light jacket.

  • Tours are managed by the National Park Service and often require advance planning.

  • Located in the scenic Black Hills, making it a great addition to a regional road trip.

Best For

Geology enthusiasts and travelers exploring the Black Hills.

Currency

USD $

Average Cost

$100-$200 p/day

Time of Day

Lunch

Languages Spoken

English

Occasion Tags

Tourists, Family, Nature Lovers

Add dates for experiences

Location

Custer, South Dakota, United States
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