Historic Area
Jewel Cave National Monument
The Historic Area has a picnic area, the Historic Cabin built in 1935 by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), and the Historic Entrance to Jewel Cave. While there is no access to the cave except on a guided tours, visitors are encouraged to complete the .25 mile (.4 km) walk down to see the Historic Entrance used by the Michaud brothers and park rangers to enter the cave since 1900.
Visit the Historic Area to see the Historic Cabin, built in 1935 by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), which served as the first Park Headquarters. The Historic Entrance to Jewel Cave can be seen with a .25 mile (.4 km) walk down a concrete path from the Historic Cabin. A word of warning, the path has 50 stone stairs built by the CCC that are somewhat uneven, watch your step! When you've finished your walk, enjoy a peaceful picnic in the shade of the Ponderosa Pines nestled in the parking area of the Historic Area.
Tags
HikingAnimalsArchitecture and BuildingCaves, Caverns and KarstFireConiferous ForestsGeologyGreat DepressionScenic ViewsTrailsBlack Hillshistoric buildingCivilian Conservation Corpscccthings to dohikingCavingMidwest
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Details
Fees Apply
No
Seasons
Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall
Time of Day
Day
Accessibility
At the Historic Area, there is a 4 foot (1.2 m) wide steep gravel path to the Historic Cabin and 50 stone stairs with a railing leading down to the Historic Entrance to Jewel Cave. The Canyons Trail is not accessible. While pets are prohibited on all trails, service animals are welcome to accompany their handlers along the trails and within the Historic Cabin.
Pets
No — Pets are allowed in the picnic area and in the parking lots. Pets are not allowed on the trails or in the Historic Cabin.
Reservations
No