Jewel Cave National Monument

Photo

by Murray Foubister

/ CC BY-SA 2.0

Jewel Cave National Monument in South Dakota is a fascinating subterranean wonder, renowned for its extensive and intricate cave system. Discovered in 1900, it is the third-longest cave in the world, boasting over 200 miles of mapped passages. The cave is adorned with a variety of speleothems, including delicate calcite crystals that resemble jewels, hence its name. Above ground, the monument features scenic hiking trails through the Black Hills, offering diverse habitats and wildlife.

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