wonderland caves

TravelinGirl321

Our entire trip was beset with disappointment because we found out upon our arrival in the Black Hills that 9 out of 10 attractions close their doors after Labor Day.After an afternoon full of closed doors, we were so excited see a billboard for Wonderland Cave with a big "OPEN" sign plastered across it. Score, right??We drove and drove and drove, following signs through twists and turns and forests and hills for miles.. Our trail ended at a locked gate on a dirt road and a little sign that said 'closed for the season.' I wish they had put that on even just one of their previous signs.

CraigC260

Our GPS for some unknown reason, ignored South Dakota when it updated. (The maker was made aware). As a result we had a tough time finding Nemo, (LOL), but we finally did, and the drive is worth it. This cave is touted as the only live, growing cave in the Black Hills. If you like caves, don't miss this one. The history of this cave is interesting and the cave itself is fascinating.There are many impressive formations to see. One note of caution, the cave has a very steep long stairway, and the physical demands of the climb back up require a lot of stamina. I wouldn't recommend it with a heart condition.Other wise, this cave is worth the time.

270KimM270

I enjoyed the tour, the cave itself and the little gift shop. Yes it is a bit of a drive (caves are where they are) but worth it for me (although I don't have anything else to compare it too). Really cool formations and piqued my interest to visit other caves in the future.

Dsche698

The signs for the cave need to be updated, they make it seem like the cave is just around the corner, when it is in fact still miles away, down gravel roads. There were a lot of cool formations inside the cave, but the tour guide talks about what the formations look like (giraffe, baseball bat, lawn gnome, etc.) more then any scientific knowledge about them. The cave is also filled with many mosses, ferns and algae, which are not natural to a cave, and without humans, would be in complete darkness and would not allow these plants to grow. Maybe they could do some cleaning up of these plants to make the cave look more natural and "pretty". Very nice people and gift shop, just not one of the better cave experiences that I've been on

KimH469

I found the tour guide to be very knowledgeable regarding all aspects of this cave. The staff were wonderful especially the guide and shop keeper who both had a wonderful sense of humour. The small gift shop was well stocked with all different kinds of rock carvings. The only thing I would recommend for people such as myself is to remember the air is quite thinner inside the cave as there is I believe 129 steep steps to climb up to get out. It was very difficult for me and had to stop twice to get oxygen into my lungs, but there again the guide was just awesome. I highly recommend this little attraction.

AmyP732

This was a bit out of the way but the tour was interesting. It wash't one of the most fascinating caves we visited but it was cool. If in the area it's worth the time.

C5692QNmichaela

Not a very long tour or interesting was not worth the time driving or the e nterance fee let along getting my truck all dirty on the long gravel road

nancyc181

Another geological wonder of the Black Hills! I've read people complaining of the stairs and how some experienced some difficulty climbing back up. People will find anything and everything to complain about. One has to look at the wonder and the magic of the Black Hills and this cave meets all expectations, probably more so than Wind Cave.Our guide, Amanda was on top of her game. Very educated and the children on our tour really took to her. She's just amazing. I am a local resident and I will return to the cave for another magical journey to its bottom. Just amazing! Along with Amanda, you'll meet Robert. Such a nice man. Before entering the cave, be sure to take a moment and take in all the views. As far as the eye can see. To put it simply: Just absolutely breathtaking. One more thing, it's not too expensive. This is most definitely a must see. Thanks Amanda and Robert for a most educational and beautiful experience!Nancy-Rapid City

Capnnak

This is a beautiful cave. The tour guide really helped make the experience fun with their observations and explanations. Yes, there are a lot of steps but it is worth it. You'll see all sorts of great geologic features - stalagmites and stalagtites, flowstone, etc. Make sure to bring a coat it was nice and cool on a hot day. It was a fun, unplanned stop. I would, if in the area, do this cave visit again.When leaving the road it seems a bit daunting, dusty/dirty and remote but just keep going. I did it on my motorcycle and it was okay.

mikaylav1

Really enjoyed it! Lots of fun too! Way up the mountain though. Little to expensive for what it is but still a great time!

strandini

Didn't like the drive out there, but we were determined to get there. The temp inside was good, I thought it would've been too cold. Bring a light sweater. The cave itself is very cool, our tour guide had a great sense of humor. The kids enjoyed it very much. I just wished there wasn't so many steps. I think it's like 270ft to the bottom. At the end of tour coming back up was sooo hard. Well only if you're really outta shape like I am. Lots of steep stairs. I was thinking I wasn't gonna make it. My legs were pretty sore the next couple of days. I guess that even if I knew this ahead of time, I would still do it. One tip, dress for the occasion. It was kinda wet and messy down there. The price is a little on the high side, but you have to do it once.

amybeth24

We did not know exactly where these caves were located and must admit that we probably would have opted out if we did. Turned out to be a happy time. We really enjoyed exploring these caves. The staff is very friendly and knowledgeable. Total walking is about a mile. There are many stairs (I believe they told is 126 one way- it definately felt like it!). Also, there are some crouch areas and low ceiling height. The guides are very good about adjusting the tour pace for guest ability and comfort. Ample time for pictures. There is a gift shop and an outhouse (meaning no plumbing).

Skeney57

Can't say more then Average as we didn't get all the way there ! Don't know if it was the Nav unit , the AAA Map or me ? We left from Sturgis down Vanocker Canyon and found the sign posting (or lack of !) terrible. The conditions didn't help at the time and we appeared to be the only car on the road. The photos show a bit of what it was like but it quickly got dark, stormy & nasty. One highlight was seeing some wildlife doing a runner. Next time I'll take a local as a guide !!

jodil537

The fresh water at the end of the tour is something you are going to want to bottle and enjoy!:) Nothing taste like fresh mountain water!:)

bruceyoung347

Good to finally get the kids out to a place where they could learn about nature. No cellular phones I told them. Amazing what mother nature can do on its own