Last updated: October 23, 2021
Place
Historic Entrance
NPS Photo
Quick Facts
Location:
A quarter mile walk from the parking lot of the Historic Area.
Significance:
The original entrance to Jewel Cave and currently the only known natural entrance.
Designation:
National Register of Historic Places
Amenities
10 listed
Benches/Seating, Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Information, Parking - Auto, Picnic Table, Scenic View/Photo Spot, Toilet - Vault/Composting, Trailhead, Trash/Litter Receptacles, Water - Drinking/Potable
In 1900, Frank and Albert Michaud found a small hole blowing cold air out in Hell Canyon. After enlarging the hole, the Michaud brothers discovered the beauty of what is now called Jewel Cave. The brothers developed the cave and began to offer tours to visitors. Word spread of this amazing find, and in 1908 Jewel Cave became a National Monument. It wasn't until the 1930s that Jewel Cave came under the management of the National Park Service, but it has been protected by various groups since it's discovery. Now, over 100 years later, visitors can still take a tour through the very opening enlarged by the Michaud brothers to follow their first footsteps into the darkness of Jewel Cave.