Jewel Cave National Monument is not only the second-longest cave in the world (currently 150 miles and counting!), it is also one of its most structurally complex. Located just over an hour southwest of Rapid City, Jewel Cave is a regional gem tucked in the Black Hills of South Dakota. Exploration is ongoing in this pristine underground labyrinth, now the world's second longest cave. Visit chambers decorated with calcite, nailhead and dogtooth spar crystals and other speleothems such as draperies, flowstone and stalactites.

The monument's surface trails and facilities are open free of charge. A fee is required for cave tours, which are ranger-guided.

All cave programs are ranger-guided. Tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis at the Visitor Center or by phone. Cave Tours do sell out in advance; therefore waiting times could be up to hours. Visitors are encouraged to call ahead for tour availability and to reserve tickets. Visit www.nps.gov/jeca for more information.

One-half mile, 1 hour and 20 minute loop tour begins at the Jewel Cave Visitor Center with an elevator ride into the cave. You will follow a paved lighted path and climb up and down 723 stairs on a moderately strenuous cave tour.

Booking Instructions: This attraction requires a date and time specific reservation. Please select the number of adults and your date from the drop down box for your preferred tour time. "Add" to your itinerary. Then select the number of children, if applicable, for the same date and tour time. "Add" to your itinerary.