Top Activities and Attractions in Badlands National Park

Things to do in Badlands National Park

When picturing national parks in the United States, places like Yosemite, Zion, and Yellowstone often spring to mind. However, Badlands National Park in South Dakota is a hidden gem that is absolutely breathtaking. Although we had previously explored the Alberta Badlands, the South Dakota Badlands take the experience to an entirely new level. In this article, we’ll uncover all the must-see lookouts and activities to maximize your trip to this stunning destination.

Covering 244,000 acres, there is a wealth of area to explore. With bighorn sheep, prairie dogs, and bison roaming the mixed-grass prairie landscape, Badlands National Park is a must-visit on any South Dakota itinerary. From wildlife watching to picturesque lookouts, the park also offers an array of hiking options. While many visitors choose to hike, the park can easily be explored by car as well.

• Suggested Hotel in Wall: Cedar Pass Lodge – This lodge offers comfortable cabins, equipped with refrigerators, coffee makers, and microwaves.
• Best Hotel for Exploring Badlands NP: Circle View Guest Ranch – Located in the countryside, this guest ranch provides an authentic experience with ranch tours and evening bonfires.
• For a Road Trip: Rent a car in Rapid City to explore Badlands National Park. You can compare car rental prices at CarRentals.com.
• No Car? Consider: a private tour from Rapid City. This tour includes visits to Wall Drugs and the ghost town of Scenic, along with the Minuteman Missile National Historic Site.

Situated in a unique area known as mixed-grass prairie, which lies between tallgrass prairie to the east and shortgrass to the west, Badlands is the largest mixed-grass prairie in the United States.

Badlands National Park consists of two sections. The North is the more popular area, managed by the National Parks Service. It features the Badlands Loop Scenic Byway and the top hiking trails. Conversely, the South is managed by the Lakota Sioux People and lacks hiking trails and park services, offering a more rugged experience with unpaved roads.

1. Drive the Badlands Loop Road – Badlands Wall

Embark on your journey by driving the Badlands Loop Road. This scenic route provides stunning views of the Badlands Wall, a striking formation characterized by rugged rock pinnacles. Along this 39-mile route, there are 16 designated scenic overlooks. While it can be driven in an hour, the breathtaking views will likely entice you to stop frequently and spend an entire day soaking in the splendor.

2. Ben Reifel Visitors Center

At the Ben Reifel Visitors Center, you’ll find the trailheads for some of the best hikes in Badlands National Park. This is a great spot to pick up maps and gather all the necessary information to enhance your exploration.

For those with limited time, several easy hikes can be tackled in Badlands National Park, ranging from a few minutes to a few hours. Here are a few popular trails to consider:

3. Notch Trail

The Notch Trail, at just 1.5 miles (2.1 km) long, is a popular choice. This fun hike includes a scramble down a ladder and follows a high ridge, providing stunning vistas of the White River Valley. You can access it by driving to the Door and Window Parking area.

4. Fossil Exhibit Area

If you’re pressed for time, the Fossil Exhibit Area features a 0.25-mile boardwalk that showcases fossils and interactive displays. It’s an accessible area ideal for a quick visit.

5. Castle Trail

Looking for a more challenging adventure? The Castle Trail is the longest hike in Badlands National Park, spanning 10 miles (16 km) round trip. Starting from the Fossil Exhibit Area, this trail takes approximately 6 hours to complete, offering views of the prairies and pinnacles along the way. Be prepared for a long day of hiking.

Several trail connections exist for the Castle Trail, allowing you to navigate shorter routes or combine them for a custom hike.

6. Cliff Shelf Trail

The Cliff Shelf Trail is another short loop in Badlands NP, featuring a boardwalk with stairs (making it less accessible). This 0.5-mile (0.8 km) trail guides you through a juniper forest and may allow for Bighorn Sheep sightings near the pond.

7. Sage Creek Wilderness Area

If you’re seeking solitude, consider hiking the 22-mile loop in the Sage Creek Wilderness Area. If you’re camping at Sage Creek Campground, this provides an excellent entry point where unmarked trails veer off into the wilderness, easily navigable for adventurous souls.

8. Pinnacles Overlook

A visit to Badlands National Park isn’t complete without stopping at Pinnacles Overlook. This popular spot provides breathtaking views over the Sage Creek Area, showcasing the diverse layers of rock formations that have emerged over time. At just 0.2 miles (0.32 km) in length, this overlook is easily accessible via a set of wooden steps.

9. Yellow Mounds Overlook

At the Yellow Mounds Overlook, you will encounter one of Badlands National Park’s most distinctive features: rolling mounds of paleosols, or fossilized soil. The yellow hills are the result of layers of weathered soil, forming a unique and picturesque landscape.

10. Stop at Wall Drug Store

Located near Badlands National Park is the quirky stop known as Wall Drug, which originally attracted travelers by offering free ice water. Since opening in 1931, it has evolved into a bustling tourist attraction with around 2 million visitors each year. This family-run business provides a delightful place to grab a meal and explore its playful displays and shops, just 7 miles (12 km) from the park.

11. Roberts Prairie Dog Town and Wildlife

Numerous prairie dogs scurry about in Badlands National Park, and at Roberts Prairie Dog Town, you can observe them up close. As you approach, dozens of little heads peek out from the sand, providing a charming sight.

Additionally, visitors might spot buffalo, bighorn sheep, and even coyotes. This lively area of the park is reminiscent of classic cartoons and promises a memorable experience.

Tips for Hiking Badlands National Park

The entrance fee for Badlands National Park is $30 per vehicle, valid for 7 days. The park is open 365 days a year, 24 hours a day.

For outdoor enthusiasts planning extended visits, consider purchasing an annual National Parks Pass for access to Badlands and other national parks.

Both the Ben Reifel Visitor’s Center and the White River Visitor’s Center are available for your convenience.

When hiking, be sure to wear sturdy boots to navigate the uneven terrain, and pack sunscreen and plenty of water, as temperatures can vary significantly throughout the day. If visiting during May or June, layering is recommended due to potential rain.

The Cedar Pass Restaurant is the park’s sole dining option for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Make sure to bring snacks and additional water, or procure provisions at Wall Drug before entering the park.

For pop culture enthusiasts, remember that both “Dances with Wolves” and “Thunderheart” were partially filmed in this remarkable landscape.

Experiencing both sunrise and sunset in Badlands National Park provides an extraordinary opportunity to capture the enchanting shadows and textures of the natural formations.

Facts About Badlands National Park

Situated in the Black Hills region of South Dakota, this captivating area was designated as a national park on November 10, 1978, primarily to protect its stunning natural scenery. With its rich concentration of fossils, unique spires, and pinnacles, the park has had national monument status since 1929.

Interestingly, the name “Badlands” is derived from the Lakota People, who referred to it as “mako sica,” meaning “land that is bad.” This nomenclature stems from its arid conditions and extreme terrain, which made traversing the area challenging.

Ultimately, it is this dramatic landscape that draws visitors from far and wide, who come for fossil spotting (please leave fossils where you found them), hiking opportunities, and breathtaking photography.

Where to Stay Near Badlands National Park

Camping can enhance your appreciation of the park’s beauty, but if road-tripping, various hotel options can provide comfort after your adventures.

Wall, South Dakota

Although luxury hotels are scarce near Badlands, the town of Wall features staple roadside motels perfect for a National Park visit.

• Cedar Pass Lodge – Offers cabins equipped with essential amenities for a cozy stay.
• Best Western Plains Motel – A well-appointed hotel conveniently located near the park entrance, with pet-friendly options available.

Rapid City

If you plan on taking day trips from Rapid City, you’ll be pleased to know that Badlands National Park is only an hour away. With the 7-day pass, you can enjoy multiple visits to the park.

• Rushmore Hotel and Suites – Located in downtown Rapid City, this hotel is within walking distance to popular attractions.
• Canyon Lake Resort – Nestled in the Black Hills foothills, this resort offers a peaceful retreat away from the urban hustle.

This comprehensive guide covers everything needed for a visit to Badlands National Park in South Dakota. Are you planning a road trip this summer? Where are you headed?