This Underrated U.S. National Park Has One of the Longest and Most Complex Caves in the World

"Below ground, you have one of the longest, most extensive cave systems in known existence. "It is also a geological wonder," says Carrie Gerlach, owner of Black Hills Adventure Tours. "There are formations in the cave that are specific to Wind Cave and cannot be found anywhere else in the world." More than 150 miles have been documented, but experts believe that's only a percentage of the cave's full scope."

"While Wind Cave became a national park in 1903, the area's story goes back much further. "Wind Cave has a significant history, as it is considered the creation spot for the Lakota," says Gerlach, referencing the " Emergence Story " that has been passed down through generations. "There are several interpretive signs that walk you through the story about the Native American creation story and history in the Black Hills and, specifically, Wind Cave," she adds."

Wind Cave National Park in southwest South Dakota offers both above-ground wildlife and hiking and an extensive subterranean cave system with unique geological formations. More than 150 miles of passages have been documented, yet the cave continues to be explored and mapped. The park contains rare boxwork mineral formations found specifically in Wind Cave. The area holds significant Lakota cultural importance as the creation spot referenced in the Emergence Story, and interpretive signs explain Native American history in the Black Hills. Wind Cave became a national park in 1903. Rapid City Regional Airport is the closest commercial airport, about an hour's drive.

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