Explore the Wonders of Wind Cave National Park
Discover the natural beauty and geological wonders of Wind Cave National Park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers in South Dakota.
Wind Cave National Park in South Dakota is a breathtaking natural wonder, renowned for its unique geological formations and diverse wildlife. This national park offers tourists an unforgettable experience of exploring one of the longest caves in the world, rich with calcite formations and a stunning array of surface landscapes. With hiking trails, guided cave tours, and opportunities for wildlife viewing, Wind Cave is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
A brief summary to Wind Cave National Park
- South Dakota, US
- +1605-745-4600
- Visit website
Local tips
- Plan your visit in the early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and better wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Bring a light jacket for cave tours, as temperatures inside can be significantly cooler than outside.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots and carry plenty of water when exploring the trails.
- Check the park's website for current trail conditions and any seasonal events or ranger-led programs.
Getting There
-
Car
From any location in Northeast South Dakota, head south on SD-34 W or US-281 S toward the town of Huron. If starting near Aberdeen, take US-12 W to get to SD-34 W. Continue on SD-34 W until you reach I-90 W. Merge onto I-90 W and continue for about 50 miles. Take exit 59 for SD-79 S toward Hot Springs. Follow SD-79 S for approximately 20 miles until you reach Wind Cave National Park. The entrance is well marked, and you will find parking upon arrival.
-
Public Transportation
Public transportation options are limited in this area. However, you can take a bus from Aberdeen or Sioux Falls to Rapid City, which is the nearest major city to Wind Cave National Park. Once in Rapid City, you can rent a car or use rideshare services to reach Wind Cave National Park. The drive from Rapid City to the park is about 60 miles south via US-385 S.
-
Bicycle
For the adventurous traveler, biking from Rapid City to Wind Cave National Park is an option. From Rapid City, take US-385 S. The route is approximately 60 miles and offers scenic views of the Black Hills. Make sure to carry plenty of water and snacks, and plan for rest stops along the way as the route involves some elevation changes.
Discover more about Wind Cave National Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
FlatIron Historic Sandstone Inn
15.4 km
Discover the unique blend of history and comfort at FlatIron Historic Sandstone Inn in Hot Springs, South Dakota, your gateway to the Black Hills.
Battle Mountain Sanitarium
15.4 km
Explore the rich history and serene landscapes at Battle Mountain Sanitarium in South Dakota's Black Hills, a unique destination for every traveler.
Hazelrodt Picnic Area
16.8 km
Discover the tranquility of Hazelrodt Picnic Area in Custer, SD, where nature meets relaxation for an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Custer State Park Mt Coolidge
19.4 km
Experience breathtaking views and diverse wildlife at Custer State Park Mt Coolidge, a must-visit destination for nature lovers in South Dakota.
Mount Coolidge Lookout and Fire Tower
19.4 km
Discover the awe-inspiring views of the Black Hills from Mount Coolidge Lookout and Fire Tower, a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Badger Hole Historical Site
20.6 km
Discover the poetic legacy of Badger Clark at the tranquil Badger Hole Historical Site in Custer, South Dakota, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
Glen Erin School Historic Site
21.5 km
Explore the Glen Erin School Historic Site in Custer, South Dakota, a charming glimpse into the educational past surrounded by stunning Black Hills scenery.
Buffalo Safari Jeep Tours
21.7 km
Discover the untamed beauty of Custer State Park with Buffalo Safari Jeep Tours, the ultimate adventure for wildlife lovers.
Custer State Park Visitor Center
21.9 km
Discover the beauty and adventure of Custer State Park at the Visitor Center, your gateway to exploring South Dakota's wild landscapes.
Custer State Park Resort
21.9 km
Explore Custer State Park Resort – a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation in South Dakota's breathtaking Black Hills.
Gordon Stockade Historical Landmark
23.1 km
Uncover the rich history and natural beauty of Gordon Stockade, a must-visit historical landmark and state park in Custer, South Dakota.
Dakota Dream Bed & Breakfast & Horse Hotel
23.6 km
Experience the Ultimate Comfort at Dakota Dream Bed & Breakfast in Custer, SD – Your Gateway to the Scenic Black Hills and Outdoor Adventures.
Welcome to Custer State Park Sign
23.7 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife of Custer State Park, a must-visit destination in South Dakota's Black Hills region.
Big Rock Park
24.5 km
Explore the stunning landscapes of Big Rock Park in Custer, South Dakota, where nature, adventure, and tranquility await every visitor.
Custer Lighted Sign
24.5 km
Discover the nostalgic charm of the Custer Lighted Sign, a historical landmark that beautifully captures the essence of Custer, South Dakota.
Unmissable attractions to see
Wind Cave Canyon
2.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Wind Cave Canyon in Hot Springs, SD, a hiking paradise surrounded by unique geological wonders and abundant wildlife.
Wind Cave National Park Visitor Center
3.4 km
Explore the stunning Wind Cave National Park Visitor Center - your gateway to unique geological wonders and diverse wildlife in South Dakota's natural beauty.
Lookout Point Trail
3.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Lookout Point Trail in Custer, South Dakota, a must-visit hiking destination for all nature lovers.
Exposing The Past
4.6 km
Experience the history and culture of Native Americans at the Crazy Horse Memorial, a breathtaking tribute in South Dakota's Black Hills.
Boland Ridge
5.3 km
Explore the breathtaking views and rich natural beauty of Boland Ridge, a premier hiking area in South Dakota's Black Hills region.
Cold Brook Canyon Trail
6.1 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Cold Brook Canyon Trail in Hot Springs, SD, a must-visit for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Rankin Ridge Trail
6.6 km
Discover the breathtaking vistas and serene landscapes of Rankin Ridge Trail, a must-visit hiking destination in Custer, South Dakota.
Sanctuary Trail
7.9 km
Explore the breathtaking trails of Sanctuary Trail, a serene hiking paradise nestled in the stunning landscapes of Custer, South Dakota.
Bison Center
10.3 km
Discover the Bison Center in Fairburn, SD, where immersive exhibits meet the breathtaking beauty of America's iconic bison in their natural habitat.
Wildlife Loop Road
11.9 km
Experience the breathtaking Wildlife Loop Road in South Dakota, a scenic drive through Custer State Park showcasing stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife.
Wildlife Loop Rd
11.9 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Wildlife Loop Road in Custer State Park, South Dakota, a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
Wildlife Station Visitor Center
12.3 km
Discover the beauty and wildlife of Custer State Park at the Wildlife Station Visitor Center, your gateway to nature's wonders in South Dakota.
Prairie Dog Town
12.6 km
Explore the lively ecosystem of Prairie Dog Town in Custer, SD, and enjoy a unique wildlife experience amidst stunning Black Hills scenery.
Bicycle Sculpture
12.8 km
Experience the whimsical Bicycle Sculpture in Pringle, SD—a unique artistic landmark perfect for memorable photos and outdoor fun.
Upper Chautauqua Park
14.8 km
Discover the serene charm of Upper Chautauqua Park in Hot Springs, South Dakota – a perfect family-friendly destination for relaxation and outdoor activities.
Essential places to dine
Dairy Queen Grill & Chill
16.8 km
Experience the ultimate comfort food at Dairy Queen Grill & Chill in Hot Springs - where delicious fast food meets delightful ice cream treats.
Taco John's
16.8 km
Experience delicious Tex-Mex flavors at Taco John's in Hot Springs - perfect for breakfast or lunch on your travels.
Dockside Grill
21.1 km
Experience authentic American cuisine in Custer's scenic beauty at Dockside Grill – where every meal is a celebration of flavor and nature.
State Game Lodge Restaurant Custer State Park
21.9 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine in the heart of Custer State Park at the State Game Lodge Restaurant—where nature meets culinary delight.
Subway
24.9 km
Discover deliciously fresh sandwiches at Subway in Custer—your perfect pit stop during South Dakota adventures.
The Custer Beacon
25.0 km
Discover delicious dining at The Custer Beacon - where great food meets live music in scenic South Dakota.
The Custer Wolf - Food & Drink
25.0 km
Experience the best of American cuisine and vibrant bar culture at The Custer Wolf in South Dakota's scenic town of Custer.
Dakota Broasted, LLC
25.0 km
Experience mouthwatering broasted chicken and local flavors at Dakota Broasted in Custer, SD – a must-visit for food lovers!
The Hills Finest
25.0 km
Discover The Hills Finest: A wine bar and art café offering exquisite wines, delicious food, and vibrant live music in charming Custer.
Hot Dog Man
25.0 km
Experience gourmet hot dogs at Hot Dog Man in Custer - perfect for tourists seeking delicious bites amidst stunning Black Hills scenery.
Sage Creek Grille - Closed for the Season - Reopening Spring 2024
25.0 km
Experience delightful American cuisine at Sage Creek Grille in Custer, SD – where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Sage Creek Grille - Now Open!
25.0 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Sage Creek Grille in Custer, South Dakota – where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Maria's Mexican Restaurant
25.0 km
Savor authentic Mexican flavors at Maria's Mexican Restaurant in Custer – where every meal is a festive celebration!
Baker's Bakery & Cafe
25.1 km
Experience the delightful flavors of Baker's Bakery & Cafe in Custer – where fresh ingredients meet warm hospitality.
Begging Burro Mexican Bistro
25.1 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Begging Burro Mexican Bistro in Custer - a perfect blend of flavor and culture awaits!
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Wanda's Finds
13.0 km
Explore a unique collection of antiques and vintage treasures at Wanda's Finds in Hot Springs, South Dakota, where history comes alive.
Buffalo Gap Trading Post
13.7 km
Discover local crafts and unique souvenirs at Buffalo Gap Trading Post, a charming variety store in the heart of South Dakota.
Chautauqua Artisans Market
15.5 km
Explore the Chautauqua Artisans Market in Hot Springs, SD for unique craftsmanship, local artistry, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
Many Moons Trading
15.8 km
Explore Many Moons Trading, the ultimate consignment shop in Hot Springs, SD, filled with unique treasures and local charm.
Lucy and The Green Wolf
15.9 km
Explore Lucy and The Green Wolf, a charming gift shop in Hot Springs, SD, offering unique handmade crafts, organic goods, and delightful children's items.
Red Dirt & Pearls Boutique
15.9 km
Explore Red Dirt & Pearls Boutique in Hot Springs, SD for unique fashion and local artistry that embodies the spirit of South Dakota.
River Street Emporium
16.0 km
Explore the unique treasures of River Street Emporium, where local artistry meets heartfelt gifts in Hot Springs, South Dakota.
Hot Springs Maker’s Market
16.0 km
Explore the Hot Springs Maker’s Market for unique gifts, local art, and delicious baked goods in the heart of South Dakota.
SucculentSD
16.0 km
Discover unique gifts and vibrant succulents at SucculentSD - a must-visit gift shop for nature lovers and tourists alike!
Blue Bell General Store
16.4 km
Explore the essence of South Dakota at Blue Bell General Store, where local charm meets adventure in Custer State Park.
Bomgaars
16.7 km
Explore Bomgaars in Hot Springs for a diverse selection of clothing, pet supplies, and outdoor gear, making your trip to South Dakota unforgettable.
Stone Décor & Supply (Rock Shop)
17.4 km
Explore the artistic treasures of Stone Décor & Supply, a unique shop in Hot Springs, SD, featuring stunning crystals and handcrafted furniture.
Legion Lake Convenience Store
21.1 km
Discover local goods and snacks at Legion Lake Convenience Store, your gateway to exploring the beautiful Black Hills and Custer State Park.
Coolidge General Store
21.9 km
Explore Coolidge General Store in Custer, SD, for unique local goods, souvenirs, and a delightful shopping experience in the heart of the Black Hills.
Needles View Emporium
23.5 km
Explore unique clothing, antiques, and costume jewelry at Needles View Emporium in Custer, South Dakota, a treasure trove for every tourist.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Hitchrail Bar & Restaurant
12.8 km
Experience the best of American cuisine in a cozy atmosphere at The Hitchrail Bar & Restaurant in Pringle, South Dakota.
LAST CHANCE SALOON
13.8 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Last Chance Saloon in Buffalo Gap, a historic bar offering local brews and live music in a charming Wild West setting.
Buffalo Steakhouse
15.2 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Buffalo Steakhouse, a cozy steakhouse in Hot Springs, SD, offering mouthwatering meals in a welcoming atmosphere.
Smokehouse Sports Bar & Grill
15.4 km
Experience a unique blend of barbecue and Mexican fusion at Smokehouse Sports Bar & Grill in Hot Springs, SD, where flavor meets fun.
Smokin Mexican
15.4 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of authentic Mexican cuisine at Smokin Mexican in Hot Springs, South Dakota, perfect for every food lover.
Springs Lodge & Cafe (Cafe)
15.6 km
Experience the charm of Springs Lodge & Cafe, where delicious breakfasts and freshly brewed coffee await in Hot Springs, South Dakota.
Mornin' Sunshine Coffee House & Catering
15.7 km
Discover the charm of Mornin' Sunshine Coffee House & Catering, where delightful coffee and homemade treats await in Hot Springs, SD.
“The Merc” Southern Hills Mercantile & Taproom
15.7 km
Experience the best of local flavors at The Merc, a gastropub and bar offering a diverse menu and extensive craft beer selection in Hot Springs, SD.
Art House Black Hills
15.7 km
Explore the creative heart of Hot Springs at Art House Black Hills, a unique bar and art gallery blending local culture with vibrant social experiences.
309 General Restaurant & Bar
15.8 km
Experience the warm hospitality and delicious cuisine at 309 General Restaurant & Bar in Hot Springs, South Dakota, where local flavors meet a cozy atmosphere.
Open air seating
15.8 km
Enjoy delightful outdoor dining with breathtaking views at this charming restaurant in Hot Springs, South Dakota.
Two Cows Creamery and Bistro
15.8 km
Experience the best of local flavors at Two Cows Creamery and Bistro in Hot Springs, SD – a delightful farm-to-table dining destination.
Silk Road Experience Restaurant
15.9 km
Discover the authentic tastes of Pakistan at Silk Road Experience Restaurant in Hot Springs, SD, where every dish tells a story.
Wandering Bison Coffee
15.9 km
Discover the charm of Wandering Bison Coffee, a cozy cafe in Hot Springs, SD, offering delicious coffee, pastries, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
the kitchen ink
15.9 km
Experience authentic American cuisine in the heart of Hot Springs, South Dakota, at The Kitchen Ink, where every meal feels like home.
