Jewel Cave is the second longest cave in the world. It is covered with calcite crystals and other wonders which give it a name Jewel Cave National Monument. It is located in south-western South Dakota (in the southern Black Hills) 13 miles West of Custer South Dakota.
The temperature in the cave is 49 degrees F with something like 98% humidity year round. It is advisable to wear a light jacket or sweater and low heeled, rubber-soled shoes who are planning to tour the cave.
Frank and Albert Michaud the two brothers discovered the jewel cave in 1900. This happened when they felt cold air blowing out of a small hole in a canyon. Both of them enlarged the entrance of the cave with the help of dynamite, they founded a cavern filled with calcite crystals, which inspired them to name it Jewel Cave. Both of them wanted to be benefitted from the discovery, so they widened the opening, they build the walk ways, and they finally open it for tourist. But finally the news of this treasure reached Washington and then the President Theodore Roosevelt issues orders to claim this Jewel Cave as the National Monument in 1908.
The Jewel Cave Soth Dakota is opened the year round with the exception of Thanksgiving Day, December 25th and January 1. There are guided tours organised such as Scenic Tours, Candlelight Tour and Spelunking Tour etc. Provisions of accommodations are made near Custer, South Dakota, Custer State Park and in Newcastle, Wyoming. There are Camp ground facilities also available.
The name of the hotels near by Jewel Cave are: