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National Monument South Dakota

Jewel Cave National Monument

About

Delve into the depths of exploration at Jewel Cave National Monument, a captivating underground wonder that boasts over 220 miles of mapped and surveyed passages, making it one of the longest caves on the planet. As you venture through this underground wilderness, you'll be drawn in by the alluring beauty of delicate formations and stunning bursts of color that adorn its walls. For those with a thirst for adventure, the intricate maze of passages within Jewel Cave is a siren call, tempting explorers to uncover its hidden secrets and mysteries. This underground treasure trove not only captivates the imagination but also holds valuable scientific insights waiting to be unraveled. As a true gem within the National Park Service, Jewel Cave National Monument stands as a testament to the wonders of nature that lie beneath the surface. Whether you're an avid spelunker or a curious traveler, a visit to Jewel Cave promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of this subterranean marvel.

Directions

How to Reach Jewel Cave National Monument

Discover Your Path to Jewel Cave National Monument

Embark on a journey to discover one of South Dakota's hidden gems nestled between Custer and Newcastle, The Jewel Cave National Monument.

Driving to Jewel Cave National Monument

Positioned just 13 miles west of the vibrant town of Custer, South Dakota, and 24 miles east of Newcastle, Wyoming, you can find this marvelous monument on U.S. Highway 16. If you're journeying from Rapid City, South Dakota, a 54-mile scenic drive via U.S. Highway 16 / 385 will lead you straight to the monument's doorstep. The physical address for the monument is 11149 U.S. Hwy. 16, Custer, SD 57730.

Flying to Jewel Cave National Monument

For those preferring to travel by air, Rapid City Regional Airport is your nearest major airport, situated a reasonable 63 miles away. From there, you can rent a car and enjoy a picturesque drive to the monument along U.S. Highway 16 / 385.

Concluding Words

Whether you choose to drive or fly, reaching Jewel Cave National Monument is an adventure in itself. The journey to this South Dakota attraction offers a unique blend of awe-inspiring landscapes and unforgettable experiences.

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Location

Located in Rapid City

Weather Information

Weather in the Black Hills varies significantly throughout the year and may be drastically different from the northern hills to the southern hills. The temperatures listed are for average lows to average highs in the location of Custer, South Dakota. Spring ~ Temp. Range of 29°F to 53°F / Summer ~ Temp. Range of 54°F to 80°F / Fall ~ Temp. Range of 33°F to 58°F / Winter ~ Temp. Range of 14°F to 37°F The yearly average rain is 19 in., with May being the wettest month. The yearly average snow is 48 in.

Gallery

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Quick Facts

  • Designation: National Monument
  • City: Rapid City
  • Park Code: jeca
  • Website: Official Website

Activities

Caving Guided Tours Hiking Junior Ranger Program Snowshoeing Wildlife Watching Birdwatching Park Film Shopping Bookstore and Park Store

Topics

Explorers and Expeditions Animals Birds Cats (wild) Elk Caves Caverns and Karst Fire Geology Trails

Plan Your Visit

Ready to explore Jewel Cave National Monument? Learn more about the park, plan your trip, and discover the natural wonders that await you.

Visit Official Website