Wind Cave National Park

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Wind Cave National Park is a unique destination that offers visitors the opportunity to explore one of the longest and most complex caves in the world, as well as prairies, forests, and an abundance of wildlife. With its diverse array of experiences and stunning natural beauty, this national park provides visitors with endless opportunities for exploration and adventure.

Cave Tours

Explore the awe-inspiring beauty of Wind Cave, one of the most complex and unique caves in the world. Choose from a variety of guided tours that provide insight into the park's geologic history, as well as stunning views of its underground formations.

Wildlife Viewing

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Wind Cave National Park by observing the park's diverse array of wildlife, including bison, pronghorns, elk, coyotes, and prairie dogs. With over 30,000 acres of grasslands, forests, and canyons, the park is a haven for wildlife and provides opportunities for visitors to observe and learn more about these magnificent creatures.

Hiking

Experience the park's outstanding beauty and natural scenery on one of its stunning hiking trails. With over 30 miles of trails available, visitors can take their time exploring the cave's unique geologic formations or enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views of the Black Hills.

Cultural Experiences

Discover the park's rich cultural history by visiting the park's historic structures, such as the Wind Cave National Park Visitor Center and the Alkali Ridge Historic District. Visitors can learn about the area's rich history and the cultural significance of the cave and its surroundings.

Whether you're seeking an underground adventure or looking to explore the natural beauty of the Black Hills, Wind Cave National Park offers something for everyone. Plan a trip today and experience the stunning beauty and natural wonders of one of America's most unique national parks.

History

Hours:

Wind Cave National Park is open year-round, 24 hours a day.

Visitor center hours and guided tours of the cave vary by season.

Fees:

There are no fees to drive through or hike in the park. There are fees associated with visiting the cave or camping in the park's campground.

Garden of Eden Cave Tour - $10 for adults 17 & older, $5 for children ages 6-16, children 5 & under are free. $5 for holders of Senior (Golden Age)/Access Passports.

Natural Entrance Cave Tour - $12 for adults 17 & older, $6 for children ages 6-16, children 5 & under are free. $6 for holders of the Senior (Golden Age)/Access Passports.

Fairgrounds Cave Tour Fee - $12 for adults 17 & older, $6 for children ages 6-16, children 5 & under are free. $6 for holders of the Senior (Golden Age)/Access Passports.

Candlelight Cave Tour Fee - $12 for adults 17 & older, $6 for child ages *8-16 and $6 for holders of Senior (Golden Age)/Access Passports. RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED *Minimum age for Candlelight Tour is 8 years old.

Wild Cave Tour: $30.00 for adults, half price for holders of the Golden Age (Senior)/Access Passports. Minimum age is 17. Reservations are required and may only be made by telephone up to 30 days in advance of the tour. Call (605) 745-4600.

Click here for a full listing of tours, including special needs offerings

General Tour Information

Ranger-guided tours of Wind Cave leave from the visitor center year-round. Tickets are sold on a first-come, first-served basis, except for the Candlelight, Crawling Tour and for groups. During peak summer visitation, long waits may be encountered. To avoid waiting, the best time to visit the cave is during the early hours of the day. During the summer, weekends are a good time to visit. Tuesday and Wednesdays are the busiest days at Wind Cave.

Visiting Wind Cave

When visiting Wind Cave National Park there are a few things visitors should keep in mind. Cave trails are dimly lit and trail surfaces may be uneven, wet and slippery. Some of the cave ceilings are low, requiring some bending or stooping. Cave tours are not recommended for anyone with claustrophobia, heart or respiratory problems, recent surgeries or illnesses and/or other physical limitations.

Tour participants should wear low-heeled walking shoes with non-slip soles. Sandals or shoes with leather or hard composition soles are not recommended. A light jacket or sweater is recommended as the cave is only 53 degrees Fahrenheit (11 degrees Celsius).

Help protect the cave and refrain from touching the cave, removing cave rocks or formations or stepping off the trail. Visitors are not allowed to eat, drink, use tobacco or chew gum while on cave tours. There are no restrooms in the cave.

Animals in the park are wild and unpredictable. Please do not approach and do not feed the wildlife. Beware of rattlesnakes and bison while you’re visiting the prairie dog towns and on hiking trails. Also beware that ticks are common in high grass.

Pets must be leashed at all times and may not be left unattended. They are not permitted in the back country of the park or on cave tours. They are permitted on the Elk Mountain and Prairie Vista Nature Trails. Pets are also permitted at the Elk Mountain Campground.

When driving park roads, please obey posted speed limits. They are strictly enforced to protect visitors and wildlife. Vehicles (including bicycles) must be on the roadways at all times. Off-road driving or bicycle riding is prohibited.

Cell phone coverage at Wind Cave National Park is spotty at best. There is no cell coverage at the Visitor Center.

Afternoon thunderstorms are common in June and July. Thunderstorms can be dangerous and visitors should be prepared for them. Large hail is common and the storms can produce lightning.