Jewel Cave National Monument (U.S. National Park Service)

QUICKLINKS:

Discover Buried Treasure

At 143 miles, Jewel Cave is the second longest cave in the world. It is filled with calcite crystals and other wonders that make up the "jewels" of Jewel Cave National Monument.

The current length of Jewel Cave is:

143.11 miles.

On August 30, 2008 explorers spent 12 hours underground and mapped 412.60 feet of cave passages.

Check here frequently to keep up-to-date!

		About the Cave Learn about cave geology, exploration, and current research. See photos of cave formations. more...

Person crawling out from a cave passage.

Experience the Cave

Find out about cave tours. See the current tour schedule.
more...

100th Anniversary of Jewel Cave National Monument.

Jewel Cave Centennial

On February 7, 1908, President Theodore Roosevelt signed a proclamation that established the Monument to protect this unique and beautiful cave. In 2008 Jewel Cave National Monument will celebrate its first 100 years through a series of events and programs to highlight the theme "Generations of Discovery."
more...

		On the Surface Hike the trails at Jewel Cave National Monument. Learn about the wildflowers and birds. more...

Write to

11149 U.S. Highway 16
Building B12
Custer, South Dakota 57730

E-mail Us

Phone

By Phone
(605) 673-2288

Fax

(605) 673-3294

Climate

The climate of western South Dakota is semi-arid and frequently windy. Summer temperatures can vary widely, with upper temperatures reaching into the 100s. Winter temperatures can be cold and extremely variable with a temperature range from 20 below zero to the 60s. Deep snow in winter is rare but wind chill can be a hazard.