Jewel Cave National Monument in South Dakota is all about the cave, so there are only two hiking trails in this park, along with a trail in Black Hills National Forest.
A couple of hiking trails at Jewel Cave National Monument / NPS - Mike Hittle
Hike Featured In The Traveler
Canyons Trail
Finding myself with several hours to kill before my tour of Jewel Cave, I took a hike. It's something you might keep in mind when you visit Jewel Cave National Monument in South Dakota.
To read more of this hike, head to this page.
Other Trails Suggested By Jewel Cave Staff
Roof Trail
Length: ¼ mile (0.4 km) Loop
Hiking Time: 30-45 minutes
Trail Head: The trail begins on the south side of the visitor center, along a sidewalk from the main patio.
Terrain: Moderate inclines. Not accessible for wheelchairs or strollers.
Difficulty: Easy
Features: This trail meanders through a ponderosa pine forest, circling the visitor center and returning to the parking lot. It displays a number of wildflowers during the spring, summer, and fall seasons, as well as offers wildlife viewing opportunities at random times.
Hell Canyon Trail (in Black Hills National Forest)
Length: 5.3 miles (8.9 km) Loop
Hiking Time: 2-4 hours
Trail Head: The trail begins approximately one mile west of the visitor center along Hwy 16; a parking lot is located on the north side of the highway.
Terrain: Moderate to steep inclines. Not accessible for wheelchairs or strollers.
Difficulty: Moderate
Features: This trail ascends a steep incline for about one-half mile, then follows a limestone cliff overlooking Hell Canyon and the surrounding area.
Before you get out on the trail, here are a few tips to ensure an enjoyable hike:
- Never hike alone.
- Alert others to your whereabouts and hiking times.
- Stay on marked trails
- Do not take any flowers, rocks, or artifacts from the monument.
- Pack plenty of water and wear (or bring) appropriate clothes.
- Carry a map of the hiking area.
- Watch for poison ivy, loose rocks, wildlife, and other hazards along the trail.
- Check your body and clothing frequently for ticks. You might even want to spray your clothing with permethrin, an effective repellant against ticks. Sawyer Permethrin Fabric Treatment spray may be purchased at places like REI, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Amazon.
- Pay close attention to the weather and be aware of any inclement weather forecasts.
- Report any suspicious behavior and/or safety issues to a park ranger.
