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Discover Buried Treasure

At 150 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 cave's current length is:

150.12 miles.

On February 27, 2010 three groups of cavers discovered and mapped 3,032.65 feet of cave passages.

Check here frequently to keep up-to-date!

 
Hydromagnesite Balloon

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.
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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."
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Sunflower

On the Surface

Hike the trails at Jewel Cave National Monument. Learn about the wildflowers and birds.
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Write to

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

Phone

Visitor Information
(605) 673-8300

Fax

(605) 673-8301

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.
Communities Surrounding Jewel Cave National Monument
Note: The times listed below are approximate driving times to the park.
Custer, SD (15 min. ) Pop. 1,860
Pringle, SD (29 min. ) Pop. 125
Newcastle, WY (29 min. ) Pop. 3,065
Keystone, SD (44 min. ) Pop. 311
Hermosa, SD (47 min. ) Pop. 315
Osage, WY (48 min. ) Pop. 215
Four Corners, WY (48 min. )
 Hot Springs, SD (52 min. ) Pop. 4,129
Fairburn, SD (53 min. ) Pop. 80
Buffalo Gap, SD (1 hr.  2 min. ) Pop. 164
Edgemont, SD (1 hr.  3 min. ) Pop. 867
Fairview, SD (1 hr.  13 min. ) Pop. 94
Gregory, SD (1 hr.  25 min. ) Pop. 1,342
Florence, SD (1 hr.  27 min. ) Pop. 299