Posted in South Dakota Hiking, Natural Wonders, Nature December 14, 2022 by Marla S.

There’s A South Dakota Trail That Leads To A Cave The Entire Family Will Love

Canyons Trail is a looped hike based within Jewel Cave National Monument in Custer, South Dakota. Since you’ll encounter a forest, cave, and river along this hike, there’s something for everyone on this family-friendly trail in South Dakota. If this sounds like a fun way to enjoy nature with your loved ones, read on to learn more about everything you’ll experience when you spend the day at Canyon Trail and Jewel Cave National Monument in South Dakota.

To get started on hiking this family-friendly trail in South Dakota, take US-16 West if you're driving from Rapid City.

If you'd like to avoid the hot sun, mornings are the best time of day to hike Canyons Trail. Along with being cooler, you're more likely to see wildlife at this time of day.

Part of the fun of this 3.5-mile hike is following the trail leading through different landscapes. This includes a forest and interesting rock formations.

Remember to have a flashlight on hand so you can sneak a peek inside the historical entrance to Jewel Cave.

Since the highest elevation on this fairly peaceful trail is just over 400 feet, wear good hiking shoes and bring plenty of water.

In addition to being able to appreciate the views from this vantage point, this outlook is also an ideal spot to birdwatch.

As part of your visit, feel free to opt for a guided tour of Jewel Cave Monument too.

Have you hiked Canyons Trail in South Dakota? Feel free to share your experience in the following comment section. And, if you’d like to take a tour through Jewel Cave Monument after hiking Canyons Trail, visit here to book your tickets ahead of time. Keep in mind that there’s no guarantee to get tickets on the day of your visit.

Address: Jewel Cave National Monument, 11149 US-16 B-12, Custer, SD 57730, USA

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