Top 10 Tips to Visit Jewel Cave

Visitors will seen some of "Jewels" of Jewel Cave on a cave tour.

NPS Photo

See below as rangers share their insider tips for visiting Jewel Cave National Monument. We’re expecting an especially busy summer season and want everyone to have a great experience. A little advance trip planning can ensure that your only surprises are happy ones. Check out our top 10 list to get the most out of your summer vacation. #PlanLikeAParkRanger

1. Know What Tour is Right for You – A variety of tour options are typically available through the summer season. Check out Jewel Cave's Things to Do for descriptions and availability of each!

2. Be Prepared for a Cave Trip – Jewel Cave is 49 degrees F / 9 degrees C year-round and light jacket or sweather is recommended. Tennis shoes, sneakers, or hiking boots are REQUIRED to participate in a cave tour. Shoes with any openings (other than the one your foot goes into) are not acceptable. If questionable, park rangers may ask that you change your footwear before taking part in the tour. If the visitor does not have appropriate footwear, they will be denied access to the cave tour. Some items are not allowed in the cave. Read Guided Tours to find out how to prepare for your tour! Be sure to check what can and cannot be brought into the cave.

3. Reserve a Cave Tour - When available, make a reservation for a Cave Tour through Recreation.gov. Check Fees & Passes for more information on reservation availability.

4. Pack Your Patience - Tickets sell out fast! Arrive early in the day to increase your chance of getting on a tour and be prepared for a possible wait before the next available tour. Cave access is by ranger guided tour only.

5. Take a Hike - Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and bug repellant for a hike on the Canyons or Roof Top Trails. Be sure to check for ticks when you complete the trail in the summer.

6. Keep an Eye on the Weather - Weather in the Black Hills can change quickly, especially on summer afternoons. Be sure to check the forecast before your visit.

7. Plan Ahead for Your Pets - Pets are not allowed on the trails or in the cave. Pets must be attended at all times. Shade is limited and pets left in vehicles can overheat quickly.

8. Watch Discovery in Darkness - At 22 minutes long, the film shows parts of the cave that most people will never see on their own. The film is shown in the Visitor Center, on the website, or sold in the Park Store.

9. Learn Our History - Visit the Historic Area to visit the Historic Ranger Cabin and view the Historic Entrance to Jewel Cave. Ask a ranger how Jewel Cave was first discovered.

10. Grab the App - The new NPS App has all the information for Jewel Cave National Monument and over 400 of your favorite parks! You can also choose to download the park info to your phone to use it when you are out of cell coverage.