Badlands Hiking Trails
The Badlands offer a whole different hiking experience from what you will find in the nearby Black Hills. Visitors to the Badlands are amazed at the landscape of astonishing formations caused by centuries of erosion. Subtle color variations of yellows, pinks, grays and tans in various strata add to the beauty of the formations. Badlands National Park has developed a series of trails through the area, allowing visitors to explore and see for themselves the fantastic landscapes and view the abundance of wildlife in the area.
The Badlands offer a whole different hiking experience from what you will find in the nearby Black Hills. Visitors to the Badlands are amazed at the landscape of astonishing formations caused by centuries of erosion. Subtle color variations of yellows, pinks, grays and tans in various strata add to the beauty of the formations. Badlands National Park has developed a series of trails through the area, allowing visitors to explore and see for themselves the fantastic landscapes and view the abundance of wildlife in the area.
To visit the Badlands National Park official website, click here: Badlands National Park
To view or download Badlands National Park Maps, click here: Badlands National Park Maps
For Badlands Lodging or Camping options, click on this link: Badlands Cedar Pass Lodge & Camping
To view or download Badlands National Park Maps, click here: Badlands National Park Maps
For Badlands Lodging or Camping options, click on this link: Badlands Cedar Pass Lodge & Camping
Hope says: Though I must always wear protection for my eyes, others may find this a necessity as well; for even on a cloudy day in the Badlands any and all light bounces off the white rock made of sediment and fossil deposits.
Our favorite [Badlands trail] is the Notch Trail. I wear sturdy, ankle length hiking boots and use 2 hiking poles…and take my time. Though the canyon floor is not difficult, the terrain is a little rocky and when I wasn’t watching my feet…I stepped into small holes. Thankful for my two poles, I did not fall, but cannot caution enough to STOP for sightseeing and watch where you are walking where ever you may be hiking; especially if you are disabled by health or age in any way. (Not to mention the risk of rattlesnakes in areas such as the Badlands!!)
Needless to say, our stopping point was the beginning of the Notch Trail Ladder. It was still a beautiful hike and for those with the ability, as well as the courage (and a partner), I say go for the gusto and enjoy!
Our favorite [Badlands trail] is the Notch Trail. I wear sturdy, ankle length hiking boots and use 2 hiking poles…and take my time. Though the canyon floor is not difficult, the terrain is a little rocky and when I wasn’t watching my feet…I stepped into small holes. Thankful for my two poles, I did not fall, but cannot caution enough to STOP for sightseeing and watch where you are walking where ever you may be hiking; especially if you are disabled by health or age in any way. (Not to mention the risk of rattlesnakes in areas such as the Badlands!!)
Needless to say, our stopping point was the beginning of the Notch Trail Ladder. It was still a beautiful hike and for those with the ability, as well as the courage (and a partner), I say go for the gusto and enjoy!
Pictured below are the trailheads for Saddle Pass, the Castle Trail and the Door Trail. Trails are marked fairly well. Be sure to bring plenty of water, and keep an eye out for rattlesnakes! Please be aware of any restrictions posted at trailheads. For official information on all park hiking trails, plus a map, click on this link: Badlands National Park Hiking Trails & Map