Wind Cave National Park

Introduction

Wind Cave National Park is a United States national park 16 kilometres north of the town of Hot Springs in western South Dakota. Established in 1903 by President Theodore Roosevelt, it was the seventh U.S. National Park and the first cave to be designated a national park anywhere in the world. The cave is notable for its displays of the calcite formation known as boxwork. Approximately 95% of the world's discovered boxwork formations are found in Wind Cave. Wind Cave is also known for its frostwork. The cave is also considered a three-dimensional maze cave, recognized as the densest cave system in the world. The cave is currently the sixth-longest in the world with 226 kilometres of explored cave passageways, with an average of four new miles of cave being discovered each year.[citation needed] Above ground, the park includes the largest remaining natural mixed-grass prairie in the United States.

Opening Hours

The park is open all day, every day. Snow or severe weather can limit access to some areas of the park, especially in winter. Visitor Center hours and cave tour schedules vary throughout the year. Visit the park website or call 605.745.4600 for current conditions.

Cost

There are no fees to drive through or hike in the park.

Eat/Drink/Sleep

There are no lodging, gasoline, grocery, or restaurant services available in the park. These services are available in the nearby towns of Hot Springs (15 minutes south) and Custer (25 minutes north).

External Links

• Official Website