A Tour of the Wind Cave National Park
Updated: Jul 16
Wind Cave National Park is located in the Black Hills of South Dakota and is home to one of the longest and most complex caves in the world. The cave has been known to Native Americans for centuries and was first explored by European settlers in 1881. The park was established in 1903 by President Theodore Roosevelt as the eighth national park in the United States. Wind Cave National Park is not only famous for its stunning underground formations but also for its diverse wildlife and beautiful prairies. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history of the American West and the natural wonders that can be found there. We had reservations for the Garden of Eden Tour that lasted an hour. There are a number of tours to choose from and you can get reservations here. This was just 1 destination on a summer road trip. To see the start of the trip click here.
The Garden of Eden Tour in Wind Cave National Park is a must-see attraction for any visitor interested in exploring the park's natural wonders. The tour takes you through a maze of beautiful cave formations, including delicate calcite crystals, intricate boxwork, and stunning flowstone. The cave's unique geology, combined with the knowledgeable park rangers who lead the tour, makes for an unforgettable experience. Along the way, you'll learn about the cave's formation and the role it played in Native American culture. The Garden of Eden Tour is a great way to experience the beauty and wonder of Wind Cave National Park.
It was a 31-mile drive from our campsite in Custer State Park to Mount Rushmore National Monument. Next: Mount Rushmore
Lorna's Tips and Lessons
Unfortunately, this cave is affected by bat disease and it's important to note that shoes worn in this cave should not be worn in any other caves or caverns. Also, remember that the temperature inside a cave can be significantly cooler than outside. I made the mistake of forgetting to bring a jacket and none of the options in the gift shop suited me. I ended up buying a long-sleeve shirt and layering it with other shirts I found in the backseat of the truck. The best option is to plan ahead and bring a packable jacket and layer your clothing.