Badlands National Park is located in South Dakota, US. It is one the most unique and beautiful national parks in the US. The park contains one of the world’s richest fossil beds. The park provides endless opportunities for hikes and climbers. Badlands is the perfect destination for adventure seekers. The park features buttes, pinnacles, rock formations that are surrounded by grasslands. Here we have mentioned the top places to visit at Badlands National Park.
Notch Trail
Notch Trail is a 1.5 mile trail located near Interior, South Dakota. The trail features a river and a steep wooden ladder. The trail ends with a cliff’s edge offering a stunning view. If you are an adventure seeker, Notch Trail is a must try.
The trail offers an adventurous hike through the canyon. It is also the most hiked trail in the park. The trail begins at the south end of the Door and Window parking area. The trail is best used from March until October. The trail is not recommended if you have fear of heights.
Big Badlands Overlook
Big Badlands Overlook is a 0.3 kilometer trail located near Interior, South Dakota. The Big Badlands Overlook is the first view that you can see as you enter Badlands from the east. The short broadwalk takes you to a stunning 360° view. You also get to view the eastern portion of the Badlands wall.
Big Badlands Overlook is the perfect spot in the park for stargazing. You even get a chance to see wildlife and it is suitable for all skill levels. The short trail is perfect for families.
Yellow Mounds Overlook
Yellow Mounds Overlook is a 2.0 mile trail. The trail is easy to hike and good for all levels. It takes about 1 to 2 hours to complete the trail. The Yellow Mounds are created as the water level dropped and the sea floor became land depositing their sediments.
The overlook is the most colorful spot of badlands. You get to see the Yellow, gray, purple, and reddish striped beds. The overlook is called Yellow Mounds for its mustard-like color. To reach Yellow Mounds, from the Pinnacles Entrance Station, drive on highway 240 E for 4.1 miles.
Saddle Pass Trailhead
Saddle Pass is one of the Badlands’ shortest but difficult trails. The trail is 0.7 miles with 300 feet of elevation change. The trail climbs up the Badlands Wall offering the view of White River Valley. The rock formation is colorful with red, pink and deep purple. The trail rewards you with an amazing 360° view. The trail is not recommended to hike during or after rainstorms.
Pinnacles Overlook
Pinnacles Overlook is a 0.6 kilometer trail located near Wall, South Dakota. The overlook offers breathtaking views and is suitable for all skill levels. It is also one of the most photographed areas in the park.
The view from Pinnacles displays the Sage Creek Wilderness area. It is one of the best places in the park to view wildlife like Bison and Bighorn sheep. The best time to hike to Pinnacles is on clear days when you can see the better view of the Black Hills.