South Dakota Vacation Guide 2011 - (Page 190)

black hills, badlands & lakes region Magical World (Continued from Page 189) passages and their mazelike interconnections. Formations range from massive to small and delicate. Some of the common formations are stalagmites, columns, spiraling helectites, flowstone, ribbon-like draperies, frostwork, boxwork and cave popcorn. Prevalent are translu- cent calcite crystals that line the walls, floors and ceilings. Most of these features were created by mineral-laden water seeping through cave channels. They are found in rooms, which are connected by underground canyons. Both Jewel Cave and Wind Cave offer their own distinct cave formations. There are some rare and unusual formations at Jewel Cave—hydromagnesite balloons—fragile silvery bubbles only an inch or so in diameter—and moonmilk, a powdery substance resembling cottage cheese. Each cave offers its own unique formations and a different perspective on the underground cavern system, so visit as many as you can while you’re here! Enjoy nature’s artistry, but please don’t touch — the formations are fragile and irreplaceable! Nature began her handiwork in the Black Hills’ caves 60 million years ago, and the process continues today. What took millions of years to create will take millions of years to reproduce. Temperatures down in the caves average about 50 degrees. A light jacket and low-heeled, rubber-soled shoes are recommended. n 190 http://www.bigthundermine.com http://www.bigthundermine.com http://www.bestwestern.com/fourpresidentslodge http://www.bestwestern.com/fourpresidentslodge

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of South Dakota Vacation Guide 2011

South Dakota Vacation Guide 2011
Contents
Overview
Getting Here, Getting Around
Information Centers
State Facts
Tourism Regions
Places of Interest
Public Campgrounds and Recreation Areas
Vacation Ideas
Southeast Region: A slice of South Dakota charm
Glacial Lakes & Prairies Region: Stories from the frontier
Great Lakes Region: Land of the mighty Missouri
Black Hills, Badlands & Lakes Region: Enchanting mountain getaway
Black Hills map
Index

South Dakota Vacation Guide 2011

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