Natural Entrance Tour (Fee Free Days)
Tour sold out? Additional tickets are available for same-day purchase at the park visitor center. Visit the Guided Tours page of the park website for a current schedule.
NOTE: Fees are waived for this tour only on these Fee Free Days in 2023: August 4, September 23. Wind Cave’s largest natural opening is the reason for the cave’s namesake wind and has attracted visitors since time immemorial. Learn about the opening’s sacred connection in Lakota culture and view abundant boxwork formations along the tour route. This 1.25-hour tour enters via a walk-in entrance and encounters 300 stairs before exiting via elevator. The 0.6-mile (1 km) tour is considered moderate due to the many flights of steep stairs upon entering the cave. Suitable for most families with young children.
Select a date to see a list of times
Need to Know
- Claiming Reserved Tickets
Tickets must be picked up 30 minutes prior to tour time. No refunds for late arrivals or missed tours. All tours begin at the Visitor Center. Allow extra travel time to the park for road work, reduced speeds, wildlife on roads, and parking. A print or electronic confirmation is suitable for claiming tickets at the park.
- Covid-19
Check at the visitor center for current Covid-related safety precautions. Face coverings may be required during periods of high infection rates.
- Cave Conditions
Tour includes paved surfaces that may be uneven, wet, or slippery, and are wheelchair-accessible with assistance. Passages are dimly-lit and narrow; low ceilings require frequent ducking. Wind Cave is 54°F (12°C) year-round.
- Health Considerations
Cave tours are moderately strenuous and not recommended for those with heart problems, breathing difficulty, knee, neck, or back pain, or claustrophobia. Even downward flights of stairs may be difficult for those with bad joints or limited stamina.
- Prohibited Items
Please don’t bring any of these items into the cave:
- Food, candy, or gum
- Water or other drinks
- Tobacco products
- Firearms or weapons of any kind
- Bags, purses, strollers, backpacks – including baby backpack carriers (front carriers allowed)
- Walking sticks, tripods, monopods, or selfie sticks
- Pets or comfort animals
- What to Wear
Sturdy shoes or hiking boots and a light jacket or sweater are recommended. Sandals and flip-flops are NOT recommended.
- Photography
Flash photography is allowed. Photographers must keep up with the group. No tripods, monopods, or selfie sticks.
