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Glittering calcite crystals covering the wall of Jewel Cave

National monument

Jewel Cave

Beneath the pine forest west of Custer lies one of the longest caves in the world. Jewel Cave takes its name from the calcite crystals that glitter on its walls in the light of a ranger’s lantern.

Why visit

Two brothers, Frank and Albert Michaud, found the cave in 1900 when they felt cold air blowing from a hole in the rock. Today more than 200 miles of passages have been mapped, and explorers are still finding more. Much of the cave is lined with crystals of calcite known as nailhead and dogtooth spar, which give Jewel Cave its sparkle.

Cave tours

  • The Scenic Tour: the main tour, reached by elevator, with several hundred stairs along paved passages.
  • The Historic Lantern Tour: by lantern light, through a less developed part of the cave, in summer.
  • The Wild Caving Tour: a strenuous crawl through tight passages for the adventurous.

Tours, schedules and how to get tickets change from year to year, and some tours can be reserved online. Popular summer tours sell out, so check the National Park Service website before you go.

Above ground

Short trails around the visitor center lead through the pine forest, including the Canyons Trail. They are a good way to fill time before your tour.

Tips

  • The cave stays at about 49°F (9°C) all year. Wear a warm layer and shoes with good grip.
  • Arrive early in summer to get a tour time.
  • Combine it with Wind Cave on a day of rain or heat.
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