Rushmore Cave, Show cave near Mount Rushmore, South Dakota, US
Rushmore Cave is a show cave in South Dakota featuring over 3,600 feet of underground passages with diverse limestone formations including stalactites, stalagmites, columns, and crystalline mineral formations. The cave extends through several chambers, each displaying different natural features and rock structures.
The cave was discovered in 1876 by local miners when a broken water system diverted water into a small hillside opening. This accidental discovery led to regular exploration and eventually to opening the site for visitors.
The Post Office room displays carved initials left by early explorers on the rock walls, showing how people first ventured into these underground passages.
The cave maintains steady temperatures year-round, so bring a light jacket and wear sturdy shoes for walking underground. The guided tour takes about one hour and requires moderate activity level to navigate the passages.
The Floral Room contains rare helictite formations, crystalline structures that grow in natural patterns resembling leaves and flowers. These delicate formations develop under special conditions and are seldom found in this region.
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