Wind Cave · January · South Dakota
Wind Cave National Park in January
January is a fair month for Wind Cave National Park, with some limitations. It is one of the quietest times to go. Highs average 36°F and lows 18°F, with about 0.55 inches of rain.
January is rated fair at Wind Cave. Consider May–Jun, Sep–Oct instead.
What to expect
Honest take: January is not the month for Wind Cave. Prairie wildlife is easy to spot in the snow, but cave tour schedules are limited.
Cave tours are by ticket only and can sell out in summer. Book ahead, and check that tours are running; they have been suspended at times for elevator work.
Good to know
- Best months overall: May–Jun, Sep–Oct.
- Closest airport: Rapid City (RAP), about 1.25 hours.
- Before you go: Check tour availability. Cave tours depend on the park's elevators. Check current conditions on nps.gov.
Questions
Is January a good time to visit Wind Cave National Park?
January is a fair month for Wind Cave National Park, with some limitations. It is one of the quietest times to go. Highs average 36°F and lows 18°F, with about 0.55 inches of rain.
What is the weather like in Wind Cave National Park in January?
Highs average 36°F and lows 18°F, with about 0.55 inches of rain. Conditions are fair this month, so check the month-by-month ratings before you commit.
How crowded is Wind Cave National Park in January?
January is one of the quietest months at Wind Cave National Park.