Jewel Cave National Monument

Things To Do Near Jewel Cave National Monument

The main attraction at Jewel Cave National Monument is the remarkable cave, which is viewable via a guided tour. Above ground, the park offers two well-kept hiking trails. If you're visiting in the winter, stop by the visitor center to borrow a pair of snowshoes and explore the forest on foot.

Hiking Trails

• Roof Trail

  If you're looking for a pleasant but short hike through the trees, check out the Roof Trail. This 0.25-mile loop starts at the visitor center and takes you through a stand of ponderosa pines. Keep an eye out for the wildflowers that dot the landscape. This trail is kid-friendly, but it's only accessible on foot; the uneven ground isn't suitable for strollers and wheelchairs.

  Location

  Jewel Cave National Monument Visitor Center

  Length

  0.25 mile round-trip

  Intensity

  Easy

• Canyons Trail

  Enjoy a few hours in the hills on the Canyons Trail, which branches off from the Roof Trail. You can park at the visitor center while you hike. Most of the route is relatively easy, though there are a few steep inclines. As you hike, you'll travel through two beautiful canyons. Bring your binoculars to check out the many different bird species in the area, or come in the summer for the spectacular wildflower bloom. If you're hiking on a hot day, make sure to pack plenty of water as there's limited shade along the trail.

  Location

  Roof Trail

  Length

  3.5 miles round-trip

  Intensity

  Easy to Moderate

• Hell Canyon Trail

  You'll see more of the landscape around Jewel Cave National Monument on the Hell Canyon Trail. The trailhead sits about one mile west of the visitor center. The most challenging section is the beginning of the trail; it climbs steadily to a ridge above Hell Canyon, offering gorgeous views. Hiking the full 5.3-mile loop usually takes between two and four hours, depending on your speed and fitness level.

  Location

  Hell Canyon trailhead, US-16, Custer, SD 57730

  Length

  5.3 miles round-trip

  Intensity

  Moderate

Sightseeing

• Cave Tours

  The only way to go underground at Jewel Cave National Monument is on a guided tour. The most popular option is the Scenic Tour, which takes you through sparkling crystal caverns, down hundreds of steps, and past some of the most fascinating geologic formations in the cave. Alternatively, try the Historic Lantern Tour — you'll carry your own lantern to light the way through the dark caves, just as visitors did in Victorian times. If you have a high level of fitness and an appetite for adventure, the Wild Caving Tour is the most exciting option. Over the course of 0.67 miles, you'll squeeze through narrow passages on your stomach, climb steep walls, and scramble over large rocks. 

  Location

  Jewel Cave National Monument Visitor Center

• Discovery Talk

  If you want to see Jewel Cave but you're not able to climb or descend steps, book a Discovery Talk. These short ranger-led presentations take place in a part of the cave that's accessible for people with limited mobility. It's also a great option for families with small children. Strollers aren't allowed, but you can reserve a cave-friendly wheelchair in the visitor center.

  Location

  Jewel Cave National Monument Visitor Center

Museums

• 1881 Courthouse Museum

  Get to know the Wild West history of South Dakota at the 1881 Courthouse Museum. With an excellent collection of historic photos and plenty of artifacts from local Native American people, settlers, and miners, this museum keeps the whole family entertained. Upstairs, you can explore the historic courthouse.

  Location

  411 Mt Rushmore Rd, Custer, SD 57730

• Indian Museum of North America

  Located about 19 miles from Jewel Cave National Monument in the Crazy Horse Memorial, the Indian Museum of North America is well worth a visit. Here, you can go deep into the Native American history of South Dakota. Check out historic artifacts, view Native American art, and learn about cultural traditions that have been alive for centuries. Don't miss the stunning beaded ceremonial clothing and the hands-on activities.

  Location

  12151 Ave. of the Chiefs, Custer, SD 57730

Nearby Shops and Restaurants

• Stage Stop

  You can't miss the Stage Stop as you're heading out of Custer toward Jewel Cave National Monument — the exterior is decorated with animal skulls and wagon wheels. Inside, there's a fascinating selection of souvenirs that includes antique coins, furs, and vintage traps.

  Location

  640 US-16, Custer, SD 57730

• Dave's Rock Shop

  Dave's Rock Shop offers a range of stunning and unusual rocks. Pick up a sparkling geode, a salt lamp, or a unique piece of jewelry.

  Location

  1020 Mt Rushmore Rd, Custer, SD 57730

• South Dakota Outdoor Shop

  If you forgot a piece of clothing, camping equipment, or outdoor adventure gear, you'll find it at the South Dakota Outdoor Shop. This friendly spot also rents bikes and stand-up paddleboards.

  Location

  757 Mt Rushmore Rd, Custer, SD 57730

• Dakota Broasted

  When you're in the mood for broasted chicken, you'll love Dakota Broasted. The menu is simple — choose a cut of chicken and pair it with sides such as beans, potato wedges, and coleslaw.

  Location

  86 Centennial Dr, Custer, SD 57730

• The Custer Beacon

  Listen to live music while you eat at The Custer Beacon. With its high-ceilinged dining room, excellent beer selection, and global-inspired pub menu, this restaurant is a great place to relax. Try the banh mi sandwich or the curry poutine.

  Location

  351 Washington St, Custer, SD 57730

• Skogen Kitchen

  Skogen Kitchen serves upscale dishes in a casual, Scandi-inspired environment. The food is beautifully plated and filling. Whet your appetite with the prosciutto di Parma and finish with the braised beef cheeks or mushroom risotto.

  Location

  29 N 5th St, Custer, SD 57730

How To Get To Jewel Cave National Monument

Jewel Cave National Monument is located in western South Dakota between the town of Custer and the Wyoming border on Highway 16. From Custer, head west on US-16. If you're coming from Mount Rushmore, take SD-244 west to US-385 south to reach Custer.

Address

11149 U.S. Hwy. 16, Building B12, Custer, SD 57730

Fee: Entry fee Adult Tour $12.0

Fee: Entry fee Youth Tour (ages 6-16) $0

Fee: Entry fee Child Tour (ages 5 and under) $0

Fee: Entry fee Discovery Talk (adult) $4.0

Fee: Entry fee Discovery Talk (youth and child) $0

Fee: Entry fee Wild Caving Tour (ages 16+) $31.0

With more than 200 miles of mapped caves, Jewel Cave National Monument is a fascinating spot for geology buffs and adventurers alike. Make the most of your South Dakota adventure by coming in an RV. An RV provides a warm, comfortable home base for your travels to nearby attractions such as Mount Rushmore, the Black Hills, and Custer State Park.