A need to assess the mechanical condition of the elevators at Jewel Cave National Monument in South Dakota will require a halt on cave tours from January 30 through February 10, according to park officials.

The elevator shafts and much of the related elevator system at Jewel Cave dates to the construction of the visitor center in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Over the past 50 years, the elevators have witnessed thousands of trips into the cave. Like any mechanical product, wear and tear has gradually occurred, and a proactive condition assessment is needed to ensure the best possible service for staff and guests, park officials said in announcing the maintenance check.

Elevator technicians and park staff will be assessing the elevator shaft and related components starting on January 30. The process is scheduled to conclude on February 10. During this entire time, cave tours will not be available. This will help to facilitate the most expedient inspection and reduce additional closures in the future.

“Although cave tours will not occur during the assessment process, the visitor center will be open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Staff will be available and will provide visitors with informal and spontaneous interpretive talks and guided hikes or snowshoe walks, depending on the weather,” said Superintendent Bonnie Schwartz.

This project is the first step toward determining whether a new elevator system is needed, or if updates to certain aspects of the system will provide long-term viability. The monument has had some intermittent elevator issues in past years, which at times has caused a delay in visitor services. Furthermore, new technology is available that may create a more efficient system, enhance safety features, and offer energy savings.

Beginning February 11, Jewel Cave plans to offer daily tours. A seven-day schedule in the offseason has not been available since 2012.

“We are fortunate to have some incredible volunteers this winter that have been trained to lead cave tours. Once the elevator assessment is complete, visitors will have even more opportunities for programs and cave access on a daily basis," said Superintendent Schwartz.