by Custer, SD – South Dakota is best known for its breathtaking Black Hills, Mount Rushmore, and sweeping landscapes. But in 2025, one of its most popular destinations, Jewel Cave National Monument, has earned a spot on the list of the “Most Dangerous Tourist Attractions in the U.S.”
Despite its stunning beauty and geological wonders, this underground labyrinth presents risks that make it both an awe-inspiring and potentially hazardous experience for visitors.
The Allure of Jewel Cave
Located near Custer in the Black Hills region, Jewel Cave is the fifth-longest cave in the world, with more than 200 miles of mapped passages. It draws thousands of tourists each year who marvel at its glittering calcite crystals, delicate formations, and mysterious subterranean chambers.
Visitors can explore through a range of guided tours, including:
- The Scenic Tour – a well-lit journey highlighting the cave’s most impressive features.
- The Lantern Tour – an adventurous trek led by rangers dressed in 1930s-style clothing, where the only light comes from handheld lanterns.
According to The Wrangler, These immersive experiences give tourists a rare look into South Dakota’s hidden underground world—but not without significant risks.
Why Jewel Cave Is Considered Dangerous
While Jewel Cave offers unmatched natural beauty, its terrain and environment have led experts to rank it among the nation’s most dangerous attractions. The dangers stem largely from the cave’s:
- Narrow, twisting passages – which can cause visitors to become disoriented or claustrophobic.
- Steep and slippery trails – where falls and injuries are possible.
- Uneven terrain requiring climbing and crawling – posing challenges for anyone with limited mobility or medical conditions.
Cave environments also carry unique hazards, such as:
- Low oxygen levels that may affect breathing.
- Cold underground temperatures, even in summer months.
- Disorientation in the dark, making it critical to stay with a guide.
Because of these risks, tour guides strictly enforce safety protocols, and visitors must meet physical fitness requirements before attempting more strenuous tours.
Read Also: 10 Charming Connecticut Small Towns Tourists Often Miss in 2025
Other Risks in the Cave
Beyond physical safety, Jewel Cave presents environmental concerns that add to its fragility and danger:
- Delicate formations can be permanently damaged by touch, so strict “no-contact” rules are enforced.
- Bats living inside the cave play an essential role in its ecosystem but are at risk from disturbances and diseases such as white-nose syndrome.
Additionally, Jewel Cave’s remote location in the Black Hills means that emergency response times can be slower than in cities. Any injury or medical emergency could become more serious due to the time required for rescue teams to arrive.
Balancing Adventure and Safety
Despite these risks, Jewel Cave remains a treasured national monument and a highlight of South Dakota’s tourism. For many visitors, the chance to explore its glittering chambers and ancient rock formations is the adventure of a lifetime.
To ensure a safe visit, the National Park Service advises travelers to:
- Wear sturdy, non-slip footwear.
- Honestly assess their physical fitness before booking advanced tours.
- Follow all ranger instructions carefully.
- Be prepared for cold temperatures underground.
This balance of caution and adventure allows tourists to appreciate the cave’s beauty while respecting its dangers.
A Unique Yet Risky South Dakota Destination
As of 2025, Jewel Cave National Monument is both a marvel of natural history and a reminder of the risks involved in extreme exploration. It showcases South Dakota’s rugged beauty but demands respect and preparedness from everyone who steps inside.
For travelers drawn to the eerie silence of underground passages and the sparkle of calcite-covered walls, Jewel Cave is an unforgettable stop. But it’s also a place where safety and awareness must come first.
Have you ever visited Jewel Cave or another extreme tourist destination? Share your experience and thoughts in the comments at ibwhsmag.com.
