Things To Know Before You Come

All cave tours are considered moderate to very strenuous. The Discovery Tour is the only cave tour that is wheelchair accessible.

1. All cave tours are ranger guided.

2. The cave temperature is a constant 49 degrees Fahrenheit (9 degrees Celsius). A light jacket or sweatshirt, and low-heeled rubber-soled, closed-toe walking shoes or hiking boots are recommended for all tours.

3. Cave tours are not recommended for anyone with claustrophobia, heart or respiratory conditions, recent surgeries or illnesses, or other physical limitations.

4. Food, drink, candy, gum, tobacco products, large purses, handbags, backpacks, large camera bags and walking sticks are not permitted on any cave tour.

5. Flash photography is allowed on the Scenic Tour and Discovery Tour, but tripods are not. Cameras are not permitted on the Historic Lantern Tour or the Wild Caving Tour.

6. There are no restroom facilities in the cave.

7. Large items such as walkers, canes, crutches, and Oxygen tanks are allowed on the Discovery Tour only.

8. No pets are allowed in the cave, with the exception of certified service dogs on the Discovery and Scenic Tours only.

9. Children of all ages are welcome on the Scenic and Discovery Tours only. If you are traveling with small children, bear in mind that most two and three year olds cannot walk the entire Scenic tour route. Carrying children on the tour is not recommended because it's important to have your hands free to grip the handrails.

10. Baby backpacks are not permitted in the cave.

11. Cell phone reception is poor at best in the Black Hills and almost non-existent at Jewel Cave National Monument.