Wind Cave National Park, South Dakota

Wind Cave has what you'd expect - plenty of wind. But there's much more you can experience in this area of the country. Above ground enjoy rolling prairies, cool rock formations, and gorgeous pine forests.

Wind Cave National Park is where you'll find native wildlife including bison, elk, pronghorn, mule deer, coyotes, and prairie dogs.

Another attraction is the 70-mile maze of passageways in the famous Wind Cave. The cave is full of crystals, underground formations and chambers, and geologic features such as the "Garden of Eden" and the "Dungeon." You can take one of five guided tours that last between 45 minutes and 4 hours. They cover between a quarter of a mile and half a mile. But be ready to enjoy the hike by electric light, candlelight, or headlamp.

Hiking is another activity to enjoy in this park. There are 30 miles of maintained trails from 1.4 miles to 8.6 miles. The Wind Cave Canyon Trail is perfect for bird-watching, while the East Bison Flats Trail and Lookout Point Trail offer magnificent views. Highland Creek Trail is the longest and most interesting trail, while the Rankin Ridge Trail and Elk Mountain Trail are popular with all kinds of hikers. The Rankin Ridge Trail reaches the highest point in the park.

In the early 1900s bison, pronghorn, and elk were introduced into the park to live in the prairie habitat. Because of this preserve, today the bison population has grown so much that there must be yearly roundups and transportation of the animals to other parks in the country.

If you want to see the park on wheels, there are three strips of well-maintained road available to visitors. Wildlife Loop Road, Iron Mountain Road, and Needles Highway travel through the backcountry so you can view pine-spruce forests, beautiful meadows, and rocky mountains. For a trip you won't forget, visit Wind Cave National Park with your family. The wildlife, natural beauty, and fresh air make for memorable trips for all ages.