News Release

Elk bugling programs offered this fall at Wind Cave National Park

Rangers at Wind Cave National Park will be offering programs Tuesday nights from September 8 to October 13 to listen for elk bugling.

NPS Photo

News Release Date: August 27, 2020

Contact: Tom Farrell, 605-745-1130

WIND CAVE NATIONAL PARK, SD – Rangers at Wind Cave National Park will be leading programs this fall to listen for the bugle of the Rocky Mountain elk. The elk high-pitched whistle heralds the arrival of fall and the elk mating season.

This weekly program will be offered Tuesday evenings beginning September 8 and run through October 13. Rangers will start the program in front of the visitor center at 7 p.m. and give a brief introductory program about elk before leading a caravan to a nearby pullout to listen for elk and sounds of the night. Participants are encouraged to bring a flashlight, a camp chair or blanket to sit on, and to dress warmly.

“These programs are a great way to enjoy an outdoor experience in a national park while maintaining social distancing,” said Acting Park Superintendent Michelle Wheatley. “Listening to an elk bugling is one of the sounds of the season and a real touch of the wildness of the Black Hills.”

For more information, call the park at [phone] or visit the park’s Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/WindCaveNPS. In case of inclement weather, the program might be canceled.