2019-01-18 01:17:42
Experience some of the world’s most exotic and unusual underground cave formations. Visitors can explore two worlds at Wind Cave National Park — 147 miles of known underground passages and 28,295 acres of above-ground wilderness and wildlife to explore. Currently the sixthlongest cave in the world, the park was established by Theodore Roosevelt in 1903. It was the eighth national park to be designated and the fist one to protect a cave. Named for barometric winds at its entrance, Wind Cave is a maze of passages adorned with boxwork — a unique formation rarely found elsewhere. The mixed-grass prairie that visitors see in the park today is one of few remaining in the nation. The grasslands are home to native wildlife such as bison, elk, pronghorn, mule deer, coyotes and prairie dogs. In 1911, the American Bison Society sought locations to establish free roaming bison herds. They selected Wind Cave National Park as one of the fist areas where these animals would be returned to the wild. The herd is believed to be one of only four free-roaming herds on public lands in North America with no evidence of cattle genes in their DNA. Above ground, Wind Cave offers incredible hiking opportunities on over 30 miles of trails. Be sure to carry plenty of water with you, and always be prepared to come across large wildlife. Stay a minimum of 25 yards away from bison and elk at all times. Located 11 miles north of Hot Springs, just west of Highway 385, the Visitor Center is open year-round and features interactive exhibits, an educational film, a park tore and a snack area. The Visitor Center also offers year-round ranger-guided tours, lasting from 60 to 90 minutes. Most tours cost $10 to $12 for adults and $5 to $6 for children/seniors. Children under the age of fie are free. Reservations are required for the two special summer tours — a two-hour candlelight excursion (must be at least 8 years old) and a separate half-day cave crawling tour (must be at least 16 years old). During the summer, evening programs about the park’s history, geology, wildlife and the prairie ecosystem are presented at Elk Mountain Campground amphitheater. For more information, inquire at the Visitor Center or visit nps.gov/wica.
©South-Dakota. View All Articles.