Although it may seem strange, at times, wildlife have caused traffic jams along Highway 16 leading to the monument.
NPS Photo / Bradley Block
Where is the monument?
Jewel Cave National Monument is located about 13 miles west of Custer, South Dakota, and 24 miles east of Newcastle, Wyoming, along Highway 16. Driving times vary by the season, weather conditions, road construction, and additional travelers during the summer months. For planning purposes, it takes approximately 25 minutes to drive from Custer to the monument and about 40 minutes from Newcastle.
Do not rely on GPS directions to navigate to the monument. Vehicle navigation systems have often taken guests past the visitor center and sometimes routed individuals onto backcountry roads that may be impassable to some vehicles.
Shuttle Service
Although multiple buses and tour companies operate in the Black Hills, there are no formal shuttles or public transportation to and from the monument.
Plane
Rapid City Regional Airport is the largest airport in the region and is 63 miles away. It takes approximately one hour and 30 minutes to travel from the airport to the monument.
GPS / UTM Coordinates:
594270, 4842528 (UTM NAD 83)
Latitude / Longitude:
43 43' 46.6153" N
103 49' 46.6522" W
Last updated: January 9, 2024
Park footer
Contact Info
Mailing Address:
11149 U.S. Hwy. 16
Building B12
Custer,
SD
57730
Phone:
605 673-8300
The main phone line connects visitors with staff at the visitor center. Throughout the year, the phone line is monitored by staff on a daily basis, excluding holidays and days with limited visitor services. Please be advised that after-hours messages are not taken on the system; visitors are encouraged to call the visitor center during normal operations and speak with a park ranger for assistance.
