Wind Cave National Park

Wind Cave National Park in southwestern South Dakota, was established in 1903 to protect a limestone cavern discovered in 1881 and rolling grasslands and woodlands of the Black Hills. Strong winds blow in and out of the mouth of the cave in response to changes in barometric pressure. Another unusual feature is the virtual absence of stalactites and stalagmites. Instead of these common cave formations, the limestone walls are adorned with needlelike crystals of sparkling aragonite and a lacy lattice of calcite called boxwork. A paved trail connects eight chambers, ending at an elevator that takes visitors back to the surface.