Nestled in the heart of South Dakota, Badlands National Park is a sanctuary for some of the most striking badland landscapes in the United States. While this park is renowned for its badlands, these arid, rocky terrains aren’t exclusive to this region; similar formations can be found in places like North Dakota’s Theodore Roosevelt National Park and Arizona’s Petrified Forest National Park. Badlands are characterized by their dry, eroded terrain that isn’t conducive to water retention, agriculture, or habitation, making them truly unique geological wonders.
Badlands National Park offers a plethora of remarkable spots to explore, from scenic overlooks to invigorating hikes. Here, we’ll guide you to some of the best trails and sights the park has to offer, helping you make the most of your visit. Remember to bring ample water, as the dry conditions can be challenging.
Top Hikes in Badlands National Park
Here are some of the best hikes, ranging in difficulty and length, to suit all adventurers.
Door Trail
Distance: 1 mile | Type: Out & Back | Difficulty: Easy | Average Time: 30 minutes | Trailhead Location
Starting with an accessible boardwalk, this easy trail soon transforms into a rugged path showcasing the breathtaking badlands. Ideal for all ages and abilities, this short trail provides a quick but immersive experience.
Window Trail
Distance: 0.3 miles | Type: Out & Back | Difficulty: Easy | Average Time: 5-10 minutes | Trailhead Location
A brief but rewarding trail, the Window Trail offers wheelchair-accessible boardwalks leading to stunning views over the canyon. Perfect for families with young children or those looking for a quick adventure.
Cliff Shelf Nature Trail
Distance: 0.5 miles | Type: Loop | Difficulty: Easy | Average Time: 15 minutes | Trailhead Location
This popular trail winds through mixed-grass prairies and offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Featuring a combination of boardwalks, cement walkways, and stairs, it’s a manageable hike near the Interior entrance.
Notch Trail
Distance: 1.5 miles | Type: Out & Back | Difficulty: Moderate | Average Time: 45 mins – 1 hr. | Trailhead Location
One of the park’s most exciting trails, Notch Trail takes you through a stunning desert canyon and features a wooden log bridge—safe but thrilling. This trail offers sweeping views and a bit of a challenge.
Saddle Pass Trail
Distance: 0.7 miles | Type: Out & Back | Difficulty: Moderate | Average Time: 30 mins | Trailhead Location
Though short, this moderate trail climbs up the Badlands Wall, revealing spectacular views of the White River Valley. Wear sturdy footwear as the path is uneven and steep.
Medicine Root Trail
Distance: 4 miles | Type: Out & Back or Loop | Difficulty: Moderate | Average Time: 1.5 hrs | Trailhead Location
This trail can be extended by including parts of the Castle Trail. It meanders through mixed-grasslands and the rugged terrain of the badlands, offering a moderate challenge.
Fossil Exhibit Trail
Distance: 0.4 miles | Type: Out & Back | Difficulty: Easy | Average Time: 10 mins | Trailhead Location
Short and educational, this trail features boardwalks and exhibits about the rich fossil history of the area. It’s a quick stop but well worth it.
Scenic Overlooks in Badlands National Park
Along the main loop road (Route 240), numerous overlooks provide breathtaking views. Even if you’re short on time, these stops are must-sees.
Pinnacles Overlook
This is the highest point in the north unit, offering exceptional views of the jagged formations and a prime spot for sunset viewing. Bighorn sheep sightings are common here.
Yellow Mounds Overlook
Known for its vibrant ground colors, this overlook along Route 240 showcases some of the park’s most colorful formations.
Big Badlands Overlook
Located near the Northeast Entrance, this spot offers up-close views of the layered formations. It’s a perfect first or last stop on your park journey.
Panorama Point
True to its name, Panorama Point provides expansive and breathtaking views of the badlands.
Optimal Times to Visit
The park is open year-round. Summers are hot and winters are cold, making spring and fall ideal for visits, with fall being particularly pleasant due to cooler temperatures. Visitor services are more limited outside of summer.
Visitor Centers
Visitors can start at either the Ben Reifel Visitor Center or the White River Visitor Center for maps, exhibits, and ranger-led activities. Each offers unique insights and amenities to enhance your park experience.
Ben Reifel Visitor Center
– Hours vary by season:
Summer: 7 am – 7 pm
Fall/Spring: 8 am – 5 pm
Winter: 9 am – 4 pm
This center is open year-round and offers a wealth of resources, including a fossil preparation lab.
White River Visitor Center
– Open seasonally during the summer (May 30 – August 21)
Managed in collaboration with the Oglala Lakota Tribe, this center features exhibits and information about the park.
Entrance Fee
Entry to the park requires a fee:
– Private Vehicle: $30
– Motorcycle: $25
– Individual (walk-in, bike, etc.): $15
– Badlands Annual Pass: $55
Frequent visitors might consider the Annual America the Beautiful Pass for the best value.
Nearby Attractions
Badlands National Park is surrounded by other fascinating sites worth exploring during your visit.
Mount Rushmore: Iconic and larger-than-life, this monument offers a unique experience.
Wall Drug: A quirky, must-see Americana stop with shops, restaurants, and more.
Minuteman Missile National Historic Site: Learn about Cold War history and tour decommissioned missile silos.
Wind Cave National Park: Known for its stunning underground boxwork formations and above-ground bison herds.
Custer State Park: Home to pure bison herds, vast landscapes, and rich wildlife.
Whether you’re in it for the hikes, history, or sheer natural beauty, Badlands National Park and its surroundings offer an unforgettable experience.