In short
- Bring a light jacket or fleece for the constant 54°F (12°C) cave.
- Wear sturdy, low-heeled walking shoes with closed toes for wet stairs.
- Do not wear gear previously worn in other caves to prevent White-Nose Syndrome.
In this article
Visiting Wind Cave requires two separate packing lists. You need warm layers for the long, cool cave tours and sun protection for the exposed surface trails. The park also enforces strict gear rules to protect the local bat population.
What is the temperature inside Wind Cave?
The cave maintains a constant temperature of 54°F (12°C) year-round.
Because you will be underground for 60 to 90 minutes, the chill will set in fast. Wear a light jacket, sweater, or fleece during your tour. Long pants are also better than shorts for this cool environment.
What kind of shoes do I need for cave tours?
You need sturdy, low-heeled walking shoes with closed toes.
Cave surfaces are often wet and uneven. Standard tours involve walking up to 2/3 of a mile and climbing between 150 and 450 stairs. Open-toed shoes, sandals, or high heels are not safe for these conditions.
What are the rules about White-Nose Syndrome (WNS)?
You must walk across a decontamination mat upon exiting the cave.
This helps protect the 9 species of bats in the park, including the threatened northern long-eared bat. Footwear, clothing, or gear worn in nearby Jewel Cave or any other cave is strictly prohibited on the Wild Cave and Candlelight tours.
What should I pack for the prairie trails?
Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, bug spray, and tick repellent.
The surface area covers 33,924 acres of open grasslands and pine forests. There is little shade on the prairie trails. Bring binoculars to safely view bison, elk, and prairie dogs from a distance.
Can I bring water or food inside?
Bring a reusable water bottle for the surface, but no water is available in the cave.
You will need water for above-ground hikes like the 3.6-mile Wind Cave Canyon Trail. Do not bring food or drinks into the cave, as it damages the ecosystem.
Do I need cash for the park?
No, Wind Cave National Park is completely cashless.
Bring a credit or debit card to pay for your cave tour tickets. Cave tour tickets are sold on recreation.gov; check there for current prices.
Questions travellers ask
Can I wear clothes I wore to Jewel Cave?
No. Footwear, clothing, or gear worn in Jewel Cave or any other cave is strictly prohibited on Wild Cave and Candlelight tours to stop the spread of White-Nose Syndrome.
Are the cave stairs slippery?
Yes, cave surfaces can be wet. This is why sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes with low heels are highly recommended for the 150 to 450 stairs on standard routes.
Is it cold in Wind Cave during the summer?
Yes. Regardless of the weather outside, the cave stays at 54°F (12°C). Always bring a sweater or light jacket for your tour.
