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The Best Things To Do In The Badlands National Park

Steve Jennifer
Updated: May 27, 2024

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A unique experience awaits hikers at Badlands National Park, a 244,000-acre wilderness that features a strikingly magnificent scenery. There is something for every adventurer on these trails, from stunning canyons to level grasslands.

The park offers a wide range of seasonal activities and is available all year round. Hiking is best done in April through September, but there are some interesting winter hikes in the area as well. Don't pass up the opportunity to travel these amazing paths through a region that hasn't altered much since the time of the dinosaurs.

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01. Fossil Exhibit Trail

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On the park's western side, the Fossil Exhibit Trail starts at an elevation of 3,100 feet and ascends to 3,300 feet, presenting stunning views of Chief’s Head Peak and Grapevine Canyon. This trail is manageable for beginners, featuring climbs over various intriguing rock formations. It’s a fantastic introduction to hiking in the Badlands, showcasing both the natural beauty and the geological history of the area.

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02. Cliff Shelf Nature Trail

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Located at the park’s southern edge, the Cliff Shelf Nature Trail climbs from 2,500 to 3,300 feet within just a mile, offering a robust hike with rewarding views. Along the way, you’ll encounter petrified wood formations, ancient artifacts, and dinosaur fossils dating back 80 million years. At the summit, take in the sweeping vistas of the surrounding prairie and distinctive rock formations that define this unique area.

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03. Window Trail

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The Window Trail offers an easy trek past three buttes and through a stretch of native grasslands, leading to one of the park’s most iconic rock formations, The Window. This trail is designed to be accessible, even in the summer heat, and is packed with interpretive signs that provide insights into the park’s rich geological and natural history. Be sure to wear sturdy boots, as the path can get muddy during the rainy season. This trail is not only a hiker’s delight but also a perfect spot for capturing that quintessential Badlands photo for your social media feeds.

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04. Castle Trail

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For those seeking a bit more of a challenge, the Castle Trail does not disappoint. With a 500-foot elevation gain, it offers more than just a physical workout, it provides panoramic views and passes by historical homesteader sites. This trail reaches the highest point in Badlands National Park and is renowned for its breathtaking vistas, especially from the Pinnacles Overlook. It’s an excellent option for a hearty day hike or as a connection to other scenic trails in the park.

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05. Medicine Root Trail

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Whether you're pressed for time or looking to push your limits, the Medicine Root Trail accommodates all. This moderate trek is dotted with highlights including breathtaking overlooks, dinosaur tracks, and remnants of petrified wood. You can opt for a quick half-mile loop or extend your hike beyond the refuge's boundaries to explore further. This trail is a perfect way to stretch both your legs and your horizons.

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06. Notch Trail

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Just a stone's throw from the Ben Reifel Visitor Center, the Notch Trail offers a plethora of visual rewards for hikers. This trail weaves through a landscape rich with geological wonders, including vibrant color shifts in the rock caused by mineral deposits, and deep canyons sculpted by ages of water erosion. Relatively easy for most hikers, this trail sits atop an ancient fault line known as a "graben" and winds through eroded hills dubbed "coulees."

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07. Saddle Pass Trail

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Saddle Pass Trail packs a punch with its steep climbs and sharp descents, offering a short but intense hike that rewards with incredible views of the White River Valley. Ideal for those who crave a bit of adrenaline, this trail challenges with its rugged terrain but assures immense rewards. It's the perfect opportunity to get your heart pumping and capture some of the most spectacular vistas that Badlands National Park has to offer.

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08. Door Trail

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Door Trail presents an accessible path that leads adventurers through a break in the Badlands Wall, known as "The Door," into a strikingly otherworldly landscape. This 0.75-mile trail is marked by a boardwalk that transitions to a rugged path, guiding hikers through a dramatic mixed terrain. With every step, the trail offers a new perspective on the park's ancient geological formations, making it an essential experience for every visitor. It's a journey that feels like stepping through a portal into another time.

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09. Sage Creek Rim Road

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For those who prefer their hikes with a side of wildlife, the Sage Creek Rim Road is a must-visit. This trail runs along the northern rim of Sage Creek Basin, offering easy access to expansive views and frequent sightings of bison, bighorn sheep, and prairie dogs. It's an ideal spot for wildlife photography and bird watching, blending hiking with the thrill of encountering nature's inhabitants up close. The trail itself is easy to navigate, making it perfect for families and casual hikers looking to enjoy a peaceful day in nature.

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10. Yellow Mounds Overlook Trail

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The Yellow Mounds Overlook Trail is renowned for its stunning display of brightly colored sedimentary rock, offering a vivid contrast to the typical rugged browns of the surrounding landscape. This easy trail provides panoramic views of the Yellow Mounds area, famous for its striking colors and geological significance. It's a visual feast for the eyes and a gentle trek suitable for all ages and skill levels, ensuring that anyone can enjoy the spectacular scenery that Badlands National Park is celebrated for.

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