Posted in South Dakota Attractions, Explore, Natural Wonders, Nature July 30, 2022 by

The South Dakota Cave Tour In Wind Cave National Park That Belongs On Your Bucket List

Does the world have you wanting to escape to somewhere new and less crowded? While places like these are hard to come by, the Mount Rushmore State does have a few of these hidden places to add to your bucket list, such as the incredible Wind Cave National Park. Wind Cave National Park, a national park to visit in South Dakota, is worth checking out.

Located near Hot Springs, South Dakota, Wind Cave National Park is home to one of the most well-known caves in the Midwest. It also features a memorable cave tour.
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Established in 1903 by President Theodore Roosevelt, Wind Cave National Park is one of the first national parks in the country. It's also the first-ever national park to protect a cave system.
Flickr/Jim & Robin Kunze
Boasting nearly 34,000 acres, Wind Cave National Park houses a complex cave system that dates back millions of years, as well as a rich Native American history and ample wildlife. 
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Billed as being the 6th-longest cave in the world at 140 miles, Wind Cave is also considered to be the densest cave. It's also home to approximately 95% of the world's discovered boxwork formations.
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The next time you're near Hot Springs, South Dakota, consider stopping by Wind Cave National Park for an unforgettable cave tour. Keep in mind, you can also see the largest natural opening into Wind Cave without having to schedule a tour.
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To learn more about the incredible Wind Cave National Park, including reserving tours and other things to do around the area, please visit the National Park Service's website or call 605-745-4600.
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Have you ever taken a cave tour at Wind Cave National Park in South Dakota? If so, please share your experience with us in the comments below. Also, share with us some other reasons why Wind Cave National Park is a great national park to visit in South Dakota.

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Address: Wind Cave National Park, South Dakota, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center

national park to visit in south dakota

August 04, 2022
Jennifer Young

What are three of the best hiking trails in South Dakota?

There are several things to do outside in South Dakota, including hiking. If you enjoy hiking, you're in luck because there are many wonderful trails located throughout South Dakota that are perfect for a hike. Listed below are three of the best trails in South Dakota, and you'll certainly want to hike them all.

1. Notch Trail

South Dakota's Notch Trail is located within the scenic Badlands National Park. This is a 1.5-mile, out-and-back trail with a moderate level of difficulty rating, which means just about anyone is capable of hiking it. The best time of year to hike South Dakota's Notch Trail is from March through October.

2. Black Elk Peak Loop: South Dakota Highpoint

The Black Elk Peak Loop: South Dakota Highpoint Trail is located within South Dakota's Custer State Park. It's a 7.1-mile loop trail, so it's a bit longer than South Dakota's Notch Trail. However, it's so worth it! This scenic trail has a moderate level of difficulty rating, so just about anyone can hike it. In addition to hiking, horseback riding and birding are two other popular activities people enjoy on this trail. May through October is the best time of year to visit this trail.

3. Cathedral Spires Trail

The Cathedral Spires Trail is also located within South Dakota's Custer State Park. This 1.6-mile, out-and-back trail is a great place to hike April through October. Like the two previous trails, this trail also has a moderate level of difficulty rating. It's also a very popular trail, so you can expect to see several other hikers while there.

What's one of the best parks in South Dakota for a family day trip?

South Dakota is filled with many great parks. One of the best parks in South Dakota for a family day trip is Custer State Park. Located in Custer, South Dakota, Custer State Park covers approximately 71,000 acres and is an absolute must-visit for anyone who loves the outdoors. Visitors of this sprawling state park will thoroughly enjoy all of the gorgeous scenery it offers. If you've been wanting to take a day trip with your family, consider spending the day at Custer State Park. Because this park offers such a variety of activities, including hiking, fishing, swimming, wildlife viewing, and more, there's something for everyone.