7 Best Hikes in Badlands National Park We Go On Every Year!

Explore the 7 Best Hikes in Badlands National Park we love yearly! From The Notch to The Door Trail, embark on a journey of beauty and adventure.

Ready to lace up your hiking boots and immerse yourself in the unparalleled beauty of Badlands National Park? You’re in for a treat! We’ve been exploring these trails year after year, and we’re thrilled to share our top picks with you.

From the breathtaking vistas of The Notch Trail to the serene beauty of The Cliff Shelf Nature Trail, there’s a slice of paradise for everyone.

And it’s not just about the trails; it’s the unexpected encounters with wildlife, the mesmerizing play of light on ancient rock formations, and the sheer wonder of walking through geological history.

So whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, join us on a journey through the Badlands, where every step tells a story and every trail is a new adventure waiting to be discovered!

The Notch Trail

The Notch Trail is one of the most popular trails in Badlands National Park. It is a 1.5 mile out-and-back trail that starts at the Pinnacles Entrance Station and ends at the Notch Visitor Center. The trailhead is located just off of the main road, making it easily accessible for day hikers. 

The first half mile of the trail is relatively flat as it follows alongside a creek. The second half of the trail becomes much steeper as it ascends up to the Notch Visitor Center. At the top, hikers are treated to stunning views of the badlands formations and can see for miles in all directions.

This is an easy hike that can be completed by people of all ages and fitness levels. However, due to its popularity, it can become quite crowded during peak season. If you are looking for a less crowded hiking experience, try visiting during the shoulder seasons or weekday mornings.

The Castle Trail

The Castle Trail in Badlands National Park is one of the most popular trails in the park. The trailhead is located at the north end of the park, near the town of Interior. 

The trail winds its way through some of the most scenic and remote parts of the park, including the South Unit and North Unit. Along the way, hikers will be treated to stunning views of the badlands, as well as a variety of wildlife.

The Castle Trail is a moderate hike, with an elevation gain of approximately 500 feet. The trail is well-marked and there are several places along the way where hikers can rest and take in the views. The hike typically takes between 4-6 hours to complete, depending on your pace.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a novice, the Castle Trail is sure to impress. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your next hike today!

The Saddle Pass Hike 

Whether you’re a first-time hiker or an experienced trailblazer, hiking the Saddle Pass in Badlands National Park is an adventure you won’t soon forget. This popular trailhead offers stunning views of the surrounding badlands, as well as opportunities to see wildlife up close.

The Saddle Pass trail is located in the southwestern region of the park and is accessible from both the Pinnacles Entrance and the Interior Entrance. The trailhead is well-marked and easily visible from both entrances. From the Pinnacles Entrance, it’s a short 0.4 miles to the saddle, while from the Interior Entrance, it’s about 1.6 miles. The roundtrip hike is about 3 miles in total.

The trail itself is relatively flat and easy to follow. It winds its way through some of the most beautiful parts of the badlands landscape, including colorful canyons and towering buttes. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for bighorn sheep, pronghorn antelope, and other wildlife that call this place home.

Hiking the Saddle Pass in Badlands National Park is an unforgettable experience that should be on everyone’s bucket list. 

The Fossil Exhibit Trail

The Fossil Exhibit Trail is a great way to learn about the history of Badlands National Park. So don’t forget your camera—you’re sure to get some amazing photos along the way! 

Hiking the Fossil Exhibit Trail in Badlands National Park is a must for any nature lover. This easy, one-mile loop hike leads you past some of the most incredible fossilized remains in the world. You’ll see the remains of ancient creatures that lived millions of years ago, as well as the tracks they left behind.

The trail is well-marked and easy to follow. It starts at the Fossil Exhibit Area and winds through a beautiful landscape of hills and canyons. You’ll have stunning views of the White River Valley along the way. The trail ends back at the Fossil Exhibit Area, where you can learn more about the fossils you’ve just seen.

Hiking the Fossil Exhibit Trail is a great way to experience Badlands National Park. It’s an easy hike that’s perfect for all ages and abilities. And it’s a great way to learn about our planet’s fascinating history.

The Cliff Shelf Nature Trail

Badlands National Park is home to the Cliff Shelf Nature Trail, a 3.4-mile moderate hike that takes you through some of the most impressive views in the park. The trailhead is located near the overlook at the top of the Wall and from there, you’ll follow along the edge of the cliff for about a mile before descending into a canyon. 

You’ll then hike along a boardwalk through a marshy area before climbing back up to the top of the cliff. The entire hike should take you about 3-4 hours to complete.

The Cliff Shelf Nature Trail is one of the best ways to experience Badlands National Park. The views from atop the cliffs are absolutely breathtaking, and hiking down into the canyon gives you a completely different perspective of the landscape. This is a must-do hike when visiting Badlands National Park!

The Window Trail 

Badlands National Park is home to one of the most unique and breathtaking landscapes in the United States. The Window Trail is a must-see when visiting the park. The trailhead is located just south of the parking area for the Notch Visitor Center.

The Window Trail is a 1.5-mile roundtrip hike with moderate elevation gain. The trail takes you through a canyon and up to a viewpoints overlooking the White River Valley. Along the way, you’ll see colorful rock formations, including cliffs, pinnacles, and buttes.

The Window Trail is one of the most popular trails in Badlands National Park, so be prepared for crowds during peak season (May-September). If you can, visit during weekday morning hours to avoid the crowds. And be sure to bring plenty of water, as there is no water available along the trail.

The Door Trail

Badlands National Park is one of the most unique and beautiful places in the United States. The landscape is unlike anything else in the world, and the hiking trails are simply incredible. The Door Trail is one of the most popular trails in Badlands National Park, and for good reason. 

This trail takes you through some of the most stunning scenery in the park, including towering rock formations, colorful badlands, and expansive views. The trail is also relatively short, making it a great option for hikers of all levels.

The Door Trail starts off from the Door parking lot, where you’ll pick up a self-guiding brochure. This will help guide you along the trail and provide more insight into the landscape and geology of Badlands National Park. 

As you hike, you’ll pass through boulder-strewn canyons and eerie scenes created by centuries of erosion. After about 1 mile, you’ll reach the historic double arch known as “The Door”. This unique formation is a must-see on any visit to Badlands National Park.

After exploring The Door, continue on the trail for another 0.5 miles to reach the end at Big Foot Pass. From here, you can take in sweeping views of the surrounding badlands before heading back to your car. 

The entire loop is only around 2 miles long and should take no more than 2 hours to complete (depending on how often you stop). The terrain is relatively moderate in difficulty but be prepared for some elevation changes along the way.

Whether it’s sunny or cloudy outside, hiking the Door Trail in Badlands National Park is an unforgettable experience. With its stunning scenery and abundant wildlife, this trail provides something for everyone who loves to explore the outdoors.

Wildlife While Hiking in Badlands National Park

The rugged beauty of Badlands National Park is not only defined by its dramatic landscapes but also by the plethora of wildlife that calls it home.

Hiking through the park offers nature enthusiasts an intimate experience with the region’s diverse inhabitants.

1. Bison: One of the most iconic animals of the American plains, bison roam freely throughout the park. These majestic creatures, often seen grazing or lounging under the vast sky, embody the spirit of the wild Badlands. While they may appear calm, always remember to view them from a distance and never approach.
2. Bighorn Sheep: Often spotted on the rocky outcrops and cliffs, bighorn sheep are known for their curved horns and nimble climbing abilities. Their silhouettes against the setting sun can be a hiker’s dream capture!
3. Prairie Dogs: The prairie dog towns are a delightful stop in your hikes. Watch as these social animals chirp warnings, play, and go about their daily routines. Their burrow-filled colonies are a testament to their intricate community life.
4. Coyotes & Foxes: These elusive predators can sometimes be seen at dawn or dusk, silently prowling the terrain. Their graceful movement is a sight to behold, offering a glimpse into the circle of life in the park.
5. Birds: Badlands is a birder’s paradise. From golden eagles soaring overhead to the delicate meadowlarks singing atop the grasses, the skies and grounds are alive with avian activity. Don’t forget to pack your binoculars!
6. Reptiles & Amphibians: While they might be less visible, the park houses a variety of reptiles like rattlesnakes and amphibians like the chorus frog. Tread carefully, and you might come across these cold-blooded inhabitants.

A few reminders while encountering wildlife:

• Always maintain a safe distance. Wild animals are unpredictable, and for their safety and yours, it’s best to observe from afar.
• Refrain from feeding any wildlife. It’s essential for them to maintain their natural behaviors for a balanced ecosystem.
• Be cautious and respect their habitat. Remember, we are visitors in their home.

Trekking through Badlands National Park is more than just an exploration of its landscapes; it’s a journey into a thriving ecosystem. Each step brings the promise of a wildlife encounter, making the experience truly magical.

Also Read: 10 ANIMALS IN BADLANDS NATIONAL PARK SEEN ON HIKES (PHOTOS INCLUDED)

Guided tours to explore the Badlands National Park

There are few places on Earth as unique and mesmerizing as the Badlands National Park. Hiking through these strange and beautiful landscapes is an experience you’ll never forget.

Guided tours are a great way to explore the park and learn about its geology, plants, and animals. The park offers a variety of tours, ranging from short walks to multi-day treks. No matter what your fitness level or hiking experience is, there’s a tour that’s perfect for you.

Conclusion

Hiking the Badlands is an unforgettable experience that will take your breath away. With over 400 miles of trails to explore, you can enjoy the beautiful landscape and diverse wildlife all year long. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced hiker, these 7 spectacular trails have something for everyone. So if you’re looking for a picturesque escape, be sure to add The Badlands to your list!