Two wonders of nature, Jewel Cave and Wind Cave share many similarities. They’re two of the longest cave systems in the world, offer incredible tour experiences led by the National Park Service and reside in South Dakota’s enchanting Western region. Despite their similarities, the two caves offer their own unique and magical experiences to visitors.
When it comes to choosing between Wind Cave and Jewel Cave, we’d choose both, but if you can only make one stop on your visit, here are some key differences and similarities between the two.
Tips for Planning a Visit to Wind Cave or Jewel Cave — or Both
Jewel Cave and Wind Cave are about 30 minutes apart by car and are not connected. The only way to access either cave is through a guided tour led by the National Park Service. Experiencing both caverns will require separate tours. To avoid disappointment, book your tickets in advance; walk-up tickets are available, but often sell out by early morning. Plan to arrive 15-30 minutes before your tour’s start time, and wear comfortable shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking. Consider bringing along a camera to capture the amazing sights of the caves and bring layers of clothing to be prepared for the cold, as the caves stay cool year-round. During your visit, do your part in preserving these magnificent caverns by not touching the formations or leaving anything behind.
Are Wind Cave and Jewel Cave Children-Friendly?
Yes! Children can tag along for most of the tour options at both Jewel Cave and Wind Cave. The only exception is the Wild Cave Tour at either cave, since it has a minimum age requirement of 16. All other tours are suitable for kids and fantastic opportunities to teach children about caves and let them experience the wonder of exploration. A visit to Wind Cave or Jewel Cave can be a great way to expose children to the world of geology, speleology and history. It’s also pretty darn fun.
Wind Cave and Jewel Cave Accessibility
Wind Cave and Jewel Cave are committed to making their caves accessible to all visitors. They offer accessible tour options that allow people with walking, hearing or vision disabilities to explore sections of the caverns via elevator. These tours are led by experienced guides trained to accommodate the needs of visitors with disabilities. Both caves also offer a variety of other accessibility features, such as wheelchair-accessible restrooms and parking spaces. They also have tour leaders trained in American Sign Language available upon reservation with advance notice of two weeks or more.
Jewel Cave National Monument
About Jewel Cave
Jewel Cave is the third-longest cave system in the world, with more than 200 miles of passages discovered so far. The cave was discovered less than 150 years ago but is thought to be more than 60 million years old. Its name comes from the calcite crystals that decorate the cave walls, ceilings and floors. These crystals come in various colors, including white, yellow, orange and pink. The cave also contains other incredible formations, such as stalactites, stalagmites and columns.
Jewel Cave Tours
Tours of the caverns are only available through the National Park Service. It is highly encouraged to book your ticket in advance through Recreation.gov. Walk-up tickets are available but often sell out. The National Park Service offers a variety of different tours. Embark on a historic lantern tour where participants explore Jewel Cave with only handheld lanterns illuminating the cavern walls. Book a modern-day walking tour along a paved trail with electric lighting, or scramble on your hands and knees through the tight, interwoven passages of the cave. The Wild Caving Tour at Jewel Cave requires technical caving attire to participate. You can read the full requirements for the Wild Caving Tour here.
Things to Do Near Jewel Cave
In addition to exploring the cave, there are plenty of other things to do near Jewel Cave National Monument. Visitors can hike, bike, camp or fish in the nearby Black Hills National Forest. There are also several museums and historical sites in the area, as well as charming South Dakota towns such as Custer or Hot Springs to explore.
Wind Cave National Park
About Wind Cave
Wind Cave National Park was the first cave ever designated a national park. It is the seventh-longest cave in the world and is home to the world's largest concentration of rare boxwork formations, as well as 33,970 acres of forest and prairie that provide a natural sanctuary for wildlife. The park is a popular destination for hiking, camping, wildlife viewing and cave tours.
Wind Cave Tours
Just like Jewel Cave, the National Park Service offers a handful of different tour types to visitors at Wind Cave. Take a historical candlelit tour to explore the cave with only handheld “bucket candles” lighting the way. Opt for a modern walking tour or embark on a strenuous Wild Cave Tour, where participants crawl and climb through Wind Cave’s passages.
Things to Do Near Wind Cave National Park
Beyond its cave, Wind Cave National Park invites exploration of its sprawling prairies and forested expanses. Horseback riding, hiking trails that wind through natural beauty and the timeless appeal of the western South Dakota landscape offer endless outdoor adventures. It's a journey that celebrates nature's majesty and the boundless spirit of adventure.
