The main attraction of Wind Cave National Park is the giant cavern stretching beneath the surface of South Dakota’s Black Hills. Early Lakota Indian inhabitants noticed wind coming from a small hole in the ground. Area explorers were amazed as they discovered mile after mile of connected underground passages, grottos and waterways. Visit the park’s cave, now equipped with a revolving door entrance and handrails in some sections.
More than 140 miles (220 kilometers) of underground passages at three levels have now been charted, with unexplored area remaining. See the boxwork crystalline calcium deposits in honey-comb shapes and branching helictite bushes up to 6 feet (3 meters) tall.
The park offers interesting scenery and wildlife even if you don’t enter the cave. Hike along the 30 miles (48 kilometers) of trails. Try all three 1-mile (1.6-kilometer) nature trail loops with interpretive stops to learn as you walk.
Trails with greater challenges take you through the dominant mixed-grass prairie of the park to areas of pine and creekside habitats. Follow the 1.8-mile (2.9-kilometer) Wind Cave Canyon Trail to see many of the parks birds, including cliff swallows, great horned owls and several types of woodpecker.
If you’re driving, stop at designated viewing points to see elk and bison roaming freely and blacktail prairie dogs poking their heads out of their underground towns. Bring your leashed pet to some of the nature trails and campground, but not in the cave or backcountry areas.
Hiking and driving through the park are free. Check the website for information on tours regarding seasonal availability, fees, discounts and hours. Some tours recommend reservations while others are first-come/first-served. In general, arrive early in the day to avoid crowds. Call ahead for an accessible cave tour. Prepare for cool temperatures underground.
While in South Dakota, visit Mount Rushmore National Monument, the Badlands and other preserved public areas. U.S. national parks offer affordable access to adventures in some of the country’s most scenic areas. Enjoy your visit to the caves and prairies of Wind Cave National Park.
