The Hidden Wonders of Jewel Cave National Monument

• HelloHau
  [how]
• GoodbyeWopila
  [woh-pee-lah]
• YesHehan
  [heh-hahn]
• NoHina
  [hee-nah]
• Please/You're welcomeAho
  [ah-hoh]
• Thank youPilamaya
  [pee-lah-mah-yah]
• Excuse me/SorryWokan
  [woh-kahn]
• How are you?Ate wasté?
  [ah-tay wah-stay]
• Fine. And you?Ate wasté kiŋ
  [ah-tay wah-stay keen]
• Do you speak English?Iyéčheča yelo?
  [ee-yay-chay-chah yell-oh]
• I don't understandWíyayakel čhaŋté
  [wee-yah-yah-kel chahn-tay]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMenušničuŋ t'áŋka uŋspéyaŋ
  [men-oo-shnee-chuen tahng-kah oong-shpay-yahng]
• I don't eat meatWíyayakel tȟokáta
  [wee-yah-yah-kel thoh-kah-tah]
• Cheers!Skál!
  [skahl]
• I would like to pay, pleaseT'áŋka uŋspéyaŋ
  [tahng-kah oong-shpay-yahng]

• Help!Wíčhaša!
  [wee-chah-shah]
• Go away!Iyá
  [ee-yah]
• Call the Police!Oyášič'iya!
  [oh-yah-shee-ch'ee-yah]
• Call a doctor!Iyá wóuŋglu
  [ee-yah woh-oon-gloo]
• I'm lostWóuŋglu
  [woh-oon-gloo]
• I'm illIyá wóuŋglu
  [ee-yah woh-oon-gloo]

• I'd like to buy...Wóiyušničuŋ...
  [woh-yee-yoo-shnee-chuen]
• I'm just lookingWóiyušničuŋya
  [woh-yee-yoo-shnee-chuen-yah]
• How much is it?Hehan kiŋ
  [heh-hahn keen]
• That's too expensiveǨíčhíŋ glí
  [kee-chee-ching glee]
• Can you lower the price?Kiŋ wóiyušničuŋ šni
  [keeng woh-yee-yoo-shnee-chuen shnee]

• What time is it?Wíčeča tȟáŋka kiŋ
  [wee-chay-chah thahn-kah keen]
• It's one o'clockKiŋ hupé tȟáŋka
  [keeng hoo-pay thahn-kah]
• Half past (10)Núŋ tȟáŋka kiŋ
  [noong thahn-kah keen]
• MorningWíyukčaŋ
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• AfternoonOwówaŋži
  [oh-woh-wahng-zhee]
• EveningWíčhaša
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• YesterdayHéhaŋká
  [hay-hahn-kah]
• TodayHéhaŋká kiŋ
  [hay-hahn-kah keen]
• TomorrowHéhaŋká t'ȟáŋka
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• 1Hupé
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• 2Núŋ
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• 3Yamní
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• 4Tȟáŋka
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• 5Zapké
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• 6Šákpe
  [shah-kpay]
• 7Šní
  [shnee]
• 8Yúha
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• 9Naží
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• 10Wašté
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• Where's a/the...?Hehan kiŋ...
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• What's the address?Hehan tȟáŋka kiŋ
  [heh-hahn thahn-kah keen]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Kiŋ nuŋp'é šni
  [keeng noong-pay shnee]
• When's the next (bus)?Hehan tȟéča kiŋ
  [heh-hahn thay-chah keen]
• A ticket (to ....)Uŋspéyaŋ šni
  [oong-shpay-yahng shnee]

Jewel Cave was discovered in 1900 by Frank and Albert Michaud, ranchers who were attracted by a mysterious hole in a canyon. They noticed a strong wind blowing out of the hole, and upon further exploration, they found glittering calcite crystals that resembled jewels, hence giving the cave its name.

After its discovery, the Michaud brothers began exploring and developing the cave, opening it to the public by 1901. They built primitive wooden ladders and created trails within the cave. However, the lack of proper infrastructure limited the number of visitors and the extent of exploration.

In 1908, President Theodore Roosevelt recognized the significance of Jewel Cave and designated it as a National Monument under the Antiquities Act. This designation helped to protect and preserve the cave's natural beauty and unique formations.

Throughout the 20th century, numerous expeditions were conducted to map and explore Jewel Cave. Notable explorations include the work of the National Park Service and various caving organizations, which significantly expanded the known length and depth of the cave. By the 1970s, the cave was recognized as one of the longest in the world.

Jewel Cave continues to be a site of exploration and discovery. In recent years, new passages and chambers have been mapped, increasing the known length of the cave system. Ongoing research and exploration efforts are supported by advancements in technology and caving techniques, further unveiling the cave's secrets.

Jewel Cave holds cultural significance for the Native American tribes in the region, including the Lakota Sioux. The cave and surrounding area are considered sacred and are part of the tribes' cultural heritage. Efforts have been made to respect and preserve these cultural connections while promoting the cave as a natural wonder.

The National Park Service, along with various conservation organizations, has worked tirelessly to preserve Jewel Cave's delicate ecosystem. Measures have been implemented to protect the cave's formations from damage and pollution, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy and study this natural wonder.

Jewel Cave National Monument is located in the Black Hills of South Dakota, approximately 13 miles west of Custer. The nearest major airport is Rapid City Regional Airport, about 53 miles away. From Rapid City, you can rent a car and drive via US-16 W and US-385 S, which takes around an hour. Alternatively, you can also take a scenic drive from Denver, Colorado, which is approximately 6 hours away by car.

The best way to explore Jewel Cave National Monument and its surrounding areas is by car. Car rentals are available at Rapid City Regional Airport and in other nearby towns. There are no public transportation options directly to the monument, so having a car is essential. Once at the monument, there are well-maintained parking facilities available. Some guided tours may offer transportation options, but these are limited.

The official currency in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted at the visitor center, gift shop, and nearby restaurants. It is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases or in case you visit more remote areas where card payments may not be accepted. ATMs are available in Custer and other nearby towns.

Jewel Cave National Monument is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it is important to take standard precautions. Keep your belongings secure and avoid leaving valuables in your car. The surrounding areas and neighborhoods do not have high crime rates specifically targeting tourists, but it's always best to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The visitor center at Jewel Cave has trained staff who can assist with minor injuries and provide first aid. The closest hospital is in Custer, approximately 13 miles away. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in Custer where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable and sturdy footwear suitable for hiking and cave tours. Layers are recommended as temperatures inside the cave can be cool. Avoid wearing flip-flops or sandals. Religion: There are no specific religious customs to be aware of at Jewel Cave, but always show respect to other visitors. Public Transport: As there is no public transport directly to the monument, ensure you have reliable transportation. Don't rely on ride-sharing services as they may not be readily available. Greetings: A simple greeting such as 'Hello' or 'Hi' is customary. Be polite and respectful to park staff and other visitors. Eating & Drinking: Do bring water and snacks, especially if you plan on hiking. Don't litter; always use designated trash bins and recycling stations.

To experience Jewel Cave National Monument like a local, consider visiting during the off-peak seasons (spring and fall) to avoid crowds and enjoy a more tranquil experience. Join a guided tour to learn about the cave's history, geology, and unique formations from knowledgeable rangers. Explore the hiking trails around the monument, such as the Canyons Trail and the Hell Canyon Trail, for stunning views and a chance to spot local wildlife. Don't miss the opportunity to explore nearby attractions like Custer State Park and the Crazy Horse Memorial.