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Badlands National Park sits in southwestern South Dakota, just off I-90 along Highway 240. The park is known for its dramatic eroded buttes, sharp pinnacles, and colorful sediment layers that date back millions of years. Wildlife is everywhere, you might see bison, bighorn sheep, pronghorn, prairie dogs, and even the occasional turkey. There are several hiking trails that take you right into the heart of the Badlands, and Highway 240 offers plenty of pull-offs to view the unique scenery. The park ranks around 25th in visitation among all national parks.
They really are Bad Lands
Door Trail
Notch Trail
We recommend getting out early if you plan to hike. Our favorite trails were Window, Door, Notch, and the Castle to Medicine Root Trail. Join a ranger-led geology walk if you can—it is a great way to learn about the rock layers and how the Badlands were formed. Just be sure to bring plenty of water; there is almost no shade out there.
Sunset at Yellow Mounds Overlook
Full Moon a Rising
Do not skip golden hour. As the day cools off, the animals start moving again, and the cliffs shift into soft yellows and pinks. When the sun drops, the sky turns all kinds of orange—it is one of the best times to be out in the Badlands
Highway 240
Highway 240
Wild Turkeys
Bison
Be sure to drive Highway 240, the park’s most popular road, to take in all the classic Badlands views.
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