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Plan a Road Trip > Explore America > National Parks > Jewel Cave National Monument |
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RR 1, 60AA, Custer, SD 57730
Phone: 605-673-2288
Fax: 605-673-3294
Open All Year
Overview. Located on the western edge of South Dakota and spilling over into Wyoming, the Black Hills National Forest rests atop the Jewel Cave. Only discovered late in the nineteenth century, at least 122 underground miles have now been explored, with the possibility of more every day. The third-longest cave in the world, its caverns boast beautiful, intricate, crystal formations of various types, like dogtooth spar, nailhead and scintillite. Though much of the cave is closed to the public for research purposes, three splendid tours enthrall visitors.
What to see and do. At the visitor center, sign up for one of the tours (a nominal fee is charged). The Scenic Tour (limit 30), though still strenuous, is the easiest of the three. For 75 to 80 minutes you'll follow a half-mile of paved paths through gorgeous caverns and climb more than 700 stairs.
The 20-person Historic Tour requires you to do some steep stair-climbing while holding an old-fashioned candle lantern. Wear old clothes on this trip lasting one and three-quarter hours. Children under six years aren't allowed due to safety regulations.
For the most intrepid adventurers, the Spelunking Tour offers a taste of real caving. You'll want to reserve a spot in this popular five-person tour. Call 800-967-228 to make advance reservations, for which you must pay at the time of booking. After you qualify for the tour by crawling through a tunnel 8.5 inches high and 24 inches wide, lace up your ankle-length boots, don your hard hat and headlamp (supplied by the park), and head underground for a four-hour tour of undeveloped portions of the cave. Kids under 16 are not allowed, and 16- and 17-year olds must bring written parental permission.
Expect a damp 49 degrees Fahrenheit in the cave. Wear adequate clothing and sensible shoes suitable for slippery footing and stair climbing.
While you're waiting for your tour, take advantage of the park's surface attractions. Check with rangers about hiking trails, and keep an eye out for wildlife and wildflowers. Picnic in designated areas only and keep pets on leash.
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Please call ahead to confirm details. We do our best to give you current information, but facts can change. Please let us know if you find something's changed.
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