Hiking

Hike through the Land of Stone and Light!

Badlands National Park has a variety of hiking trails for guests of all experience levels. All trails are within a few miles of the Ben Reifel Visitor Center.

Hiking Tips and Information:

Be Weather Aware - Sun gear and rain gear are recommended as weather conditions can change quickly. Badlands National Park variable temperature extremes can be as high as 116° F and as low as -40° F
Hydration - It is recommended that you carry at least one gallon of water per person, per day
Sturdy boots and shoes are recommended to protect yourself from cactus spines and snake bites
Always give at least 100 feet of distance from all wildlife
All park resources are to remain where they are such as fossils, plants, animals, artifacts and rocks
No Pets Allowed
Guests must be 3 years old or older to explore the hiking trails

Badlands Hiking Trails

Easy Hikes | Moderate Hikes | Strenuous Hikes

Easy Hikes

Hike	Distance	Features	Notes
Door Trail	0.75-miles roundtrip	Walk through the break in the Badlands Wall known as the “Door” for incredible views of the Badlands	Watch for drop offs
Window Trail	0.25-miles roundtrip	Venture through the natural window in the Badlands Wall for views of the eroded canyon	Please stay on the trail
Fossil Exhibit Trail	0.25-miles roundtrip	Boardwalk trail with access to fossil replicas and exhibits

Moderate Hikes

Hike	Distance	Features	Notes
Castle Trail	10-miles roundtrip	The longest trail in the park passing through many badlands formations
Cliff Shelf	0.5-miles roundtrip	Loop trail through juniper forest along the Badlands Wall. Occasionally, wildlife will roam this trail	About 200ft in elevation gain. Please stay on the trail.
Medicine Root Loop	4-miles roundtrip	Explore the mixed grass prairies

Strenuous Hikes

Hike	Distance	Features	Notes
Notch Trail	1.5-miles roundtrip	See the dramatic views of the White River Valley	Not recommended for those who have a fear of heights. The trail is treacherous during or after rainfall.
Saddle Pass	0.25-miles	Climb up the Badlands Wall for views over the White River Valley

Open Hiking Policy

Badlands National Park has an open hiking policy. Please visit Hiking the Badlands (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov) for more information or speak with a Park Ranger at Ben Reifel Visitor Center.

Accessibility Information

Some trails have accessible options for guests. Please visit Hiking the Badlands (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov) for more information or speak with a Park Ranger at Ben Reifel Visitor Center.