About
Length (round trip)0.6 mi
ShapeOut-and-Back
DifficultyModerate
Elevation gain200 ft up
Typical time15 min
TrailheadWind Cave Visitor Center
Surface300 stairs, mostly descending, on a lit paved route
Best seasonThe cave is 54F year round. Surface trails are best May to October; prairie wildflowers peak in June and the bison rut is in August.
DogsLeashed / limited stretches
PermitRequired
AccessibilityVisitors using wheelchairs are able to view the natural entrance. During business hours, it can be accessed via a ramp and paved sidewalk leaving from the visitor center. The natural entrance is approximately 225 yards from the building. After hours, a wide gravel path with a fairly level grade at the picnic area leads to the natural entrance. The natural entrance is approximately 150 yards from the picnic area.
What you'll see 🕳️ Cave or arch

Wind Cave holds more than 95 percent of the world's known boxwork - thin calcite fins projecting from the walls in a honeycomb. The natural entrance is a hole about ten inches across through which air rushes in or out depending on barometric pressure, which is how the cave got its name.

Tips
All tours are ticketed and must be booked in advance. Around 300 stairs, mostly down. The cave is 54F with high humidity year round. Never bring in gear worn in another cave without decontaminating it.
Location

Wind Cave Visitor Center

Other Hikers
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Trail data: USGS National Map / PAD-US, the National Park Service, state agencies, and © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL). Access and conditions change — check with the managing agency before you go.