Wind Cave National Park Feature

About three-quarters of the park is grasslands. The rest is forested, mostly by the ponderosa pine. Poison ivy and poison oak are common in wetter, shadier areas, so wear long pants and boots when hiking.

The convergence of forest and prairies makes an attractive home for bison, elk, coyotes, pronghorn antelope, prairie dogs, and mule deer. Wild turkey and squirrels are less obvious, but commonly seen by the observant hiker.

Mountain lions also live in the park; although usually shy, they will attack if surprised or threatened. Make noise while hiking to prevent chance encounters.

Bison appear docile but can be dangerous. The largest land mammal in North America, they weigh up to a ton and run at speeds in excess of 35 mph.