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

QUICKLINKS:

Discover Buried Treasure

At 147 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:

147.91 miles.

From November 19-22, 2009 cavers spent 83 hours underground and discovered 5,281.30 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.
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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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		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

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.