Badlands National Park
Badlands National Park is a treasure trove of natural wonders, featuring unique geological formations, diverse biodiversity, and numerous outdoor recreational opportunities. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, wildlife lover, or adventure seeker, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this iconic American destination.
Overview
The Badlands have some of the most mysterious landscapes in the national park system, from fossil beds to towering pyramidal formations.
Located on the edge of the Great Plains in southwestern South Dakota, Badlands National Park spans 244,000 acres of land. Heavily eroded peaks and spires are interspersed with the largest protected mixed grassland in the United States.
Within Badlands National Park lie the richest fossil beds on the planet, giving scientists invaluable insight into the evolutionary history of mammals such as horses, rhinoceroses and toothed cats sword. The Badlands are home to many species of mammals, reptiles, amphibians, birds and butterflies. From tiny shrews to giant 2,000-pound bison.
Best Things to Do in Badlands National Park
Make the most of your Badlands adventure with these popular recreational activities.
Drive the Badlands National Park Loop Road
Well-paved and easy to follow, driving the Loop Road is one of the best things to do in Badlands National Park if you want to cover lots of ground.
Running between the Pinnacles Entrance in the north to the Ben Reifel Visitor Center, you’ll get ample opportunity to stop at trailheads, viewpoints, and vistas along the way.
Be sure to stop off at Pinnacles Overlook for the incredible views, visit Bigfoot Pass Overlook, and stop by for a packed lunch or explore Burns Basin Overlook. All are beautiful.
Hop on the Notch Trail
If you want to hike, the Notch Trail is about 3-4 miles long and absolutely gorgeous.
Not only that, the area around the trail is also very beautiful for those who love sunsets. The entire White River Valley is bathed in orange.
Just watch out for rattlesnakes in the area.
Explore the Cliff Shelf Nature Trail
The Cliff Shelf Nature Trail provides a leisurely stroll perfect for families, offering a gentle path to enjoy. For a delightful experience, explore the Saddle Pass Trail, renowned for its breathtaking scenery.
Spanning just 0.5 miles round trip, this trail treats hikers to spectacular vistas of Badlands National Park in South Dakota, without the challenge of strenuous terrain.
Moreover, the viewpoints along the way are simply awe-inspiring!
Follow the Fossil Exhibit Trail
The Fossil Exhibit Trail, a boardwalk trail fully accessible to all, showcases fossil replicas and exhibits of prehistoric creatures that inhabited Badlands National Park.
Exploring this boardwalk trail is truly fascinating, offering insight into the animals called this area home many millions of years ago. It’s an experience suitable!
Hike the Door Trail
The Door Trail boasts a clearly marked path, making it an easy 25-minute hike or stroll.
However, be mindful that there is minimal shade along the route, so it’s advisable to apply sunscreen and bring water. South Dakota’s terrain and weather can present challenges at times.
Visit the Ben Reifel Visitor Center
Nestled within the breathtaking terrain of Badlands National Park in South Dakota stands the Ben Reifel Visitor Center – a hub of exploration and learning.
This center embodies the park’s commitment to preserving both natural history and cultural heritage. Boasting a range of activities and exhibits suitable for visitors of all ages and interests. The Ben Reifel Visitor Center provides an ideal launchpad for discovering the wonders of this distinctive landscape.
Explore Homestead Overlook
Homestead Overlook is truly a hidden treasure worth experiencing! This vantage point offers panoramic views of the vibrant ridges of the Badlands and the sprawling prairie, which I found utterly captivating. The hues of the rock formations are simply stunning, providing ample opportunities for photography and pure enjoyment.
See Colored Rocks At Yellow Mounds
Yellow Mounds is situated in the most visually striking section of Badlands geology. Layers of yellow, purple, gray, and striped reddish beds showcase the sequence of geological formations, including the Yellow Mounds, Interior Paleosol, Chadron, and Brule formations, arranged from bottom to top.
Places to Stay
Choose accommodation that is comfortable and suits your personal preferences when coming to Badlands National Park because it offers a variety of accommodations for you.
Camping
In Badlands National Park, camping options abound, ranging from paid to free sites, with campgrounds that require reservations alongside those available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
For an unforgettable overnight experience, choose between Cedar Pass Campground and Sage Creek Campground, both offering stunning vistas of sunsets, night skies filled with stars, and awe-inspiring sunrises, all from the cozy confines of your tent.
Weather in the park can be diverse, with summers often hot and dry, occasionally punctuated by thunderstorms, while winter brings an average of 12 to 24 inches of snow. The prime camping season typically extends from late summer to early fall, offering cool but comfortable temperatures. However, it’s worth noting that June tends to be the wettest month of the year.
Hotel and Resort
Best Western Plains Motel (3-star)
Seasonal outdoor and indoor pools, both heated, are featured at this motel in Wall. The Minuteman Missile Historic Site is 9 minutes’ drive away. Free WiFi is available.
Address: 712 Glenn Street, Wall, SD 57790
Price Range: From $105
Badlands Frontier Cabins (3-star)
Badlands Frontier Cabins is located in Wall. This 3-star hotel has a 24-hour front desk. The hotel also offers free Wi-Fi and free private parking.
Address: 1011 Glenn Street, Wall, SD 57790
Price Range: From AU$248 per night
Days Inn by Wyndham Wall (3-star)
Located 10 minutes’ drive from Badlands National Park, this Wall, South Dakota motel serves a daily continental breakfast to all guests.
Address: 212 10th Avenue, Wall, SD 57790
Price Range: From $74
Dining
The sole food vendor within Badlands National Park is Cedar Pass Lodge, conveniently situated near the Ben Reifel Visitor Center. At Cedar Pass Lodge restaurant, visitors can indulge in full meals or grab snacks to fuel their adventures.
Cedar Pass Lodge Restaurant
Address: 20861 SD Hwy 240, Badlands National Park, SD 57750
Cedar Pass Restaurant provides a variety of locally and regionally sourced dishes for our guests for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Hours of Operation (Open April – October)
Breakfast: 8:00am – 10:00am
Lunch & Dinner: 11:00am – 6:00pm
Prices: Breakfast and lunch $5–$10; Dinner $8–$20
Planning Your Trip
Don’t forget to fully enjoy your trip by planning ahead. Refer to the information we provide below.
Visiting Time
The optimal times to explore Badlands National Park are during the spring or fall seasons, offering prime conditions for outdoor activities. April and May, as well as September and October, typically provide the most favorable weather and overall experience.
If summer is your only available time to visit, fret not; a Badlands adventure is still feasible. However, be mindful of the scorching daytime temperatures, often reaching up to 100 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s advisable to schedule hikes and exploration for the early mornings or evenings to avoid the peak heat.
Additionally, sudden thunderstorms are common occurrences, so staying updated on weather forecasts is essential for a safe and enjoyable trip.
Transportation
There are two primary routes to reach Badlands National Park:
- You can fly into Rapid City, located approximately an hour’s drive from Badlands.
- You can fly into Sioux Falls and embark on a scenic 4-hour road trip through South Dakota to reach Badlands.
Gates of the Badlands National Park Map
Conclusion
In conclusion, Badlands National Park offers visitors a truly unforgettable experience amidst its breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity. Whether you’re exploring its scenic trails, marveling at its geological wonders, or simply soaking in the beauty of its expansive vistas, you’re sure to create memories that will last a lifetime. Plan your visit today and discover the magic of Badlands National Park for yourself.
Q&A of Badlands National Park
Yes, Badlands National Park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring and fall months when temperatures are mild and wildlife is more active. Summer can be hot, and winter can bring cold temperatures and snow, so plan accordingly for weather conditions.
Yes, the park offers ranger-led programs and guided tours seasonally, including hikes, talks, and educational programs. Check the park’s website or visitor center for the latest schedule and availability.
Families with children can enjoy a variety of activities at Badlands National Park, including Junior Ranger programs, wildlife viewing, and easy hikes suitable for all ages. The park also offers interactive exhibits and educational opportunities for young visitors to learn about the area’s natural and cultural history.
Pets are allowed in designated areas of Badlands National Park, including campgrounds and developed areas, but they must be kept on a leash at all times and are not permitted on hiking trails or in the backcountry for their safety and the protection of wildlife.