Wind Cave National Park protects two very different worlds: the open prairie above and the intricate cave below. On clear nights a third world blankets both, the brilliant night sky over the southern Black Hills.
Join a park ranger who ties the majesty of the night sky to the story of the park, pointing out and explaining constellations and features through a high-power telescope provided by the Black Hills Parks and Forests Association.
Getting there: Programs are held at the first Highway 87 vehicle pull-off north from the Highway 385 junction (GPS 43.5739, -103.4876). Dress for the weather and bring a chair if you like.
Good to know: Free and open to all ages. Weather-dependent, and cancelled if skies are cloudy or conditions are poor. Remaining 2026 dates: July 25 (9:00 to 10:00 p.m.), August 29 (8:30 to 9:30 p.m.), and September 26 (8:30 to 9:30 p.m.).
