8 Must-Do Hikes in Badlands National Park

Looking for the best hikes in Badlands National Park? This guide covers eight must-do trails that highlight the park’s stunning landscapes, from easy boardwalk strolls to adventurous cliff climbing escapades — perfect for all ages and skill levels!

With its rugged rock formations, expansive prairies, and sweeping views, Badlands National Park is a dream destination for hikers and adventurers.

Whether you’re looking for an easy stroll with stunning scenery or a more challenging trek across dramatic landscapes, the Badlands offer a variety of trails that showcase the park’s otherworldly beauty.

The good news? Nearly all of the hikes in Badlands National Park are under two miles! Most of the hikes here are short, easy, and accessible — perfect for those who don’t want to commit to long treks or are limited on time visiting the park.

Want more good news? Unlike many other national parks, Badlands encourages off-trail exploration. If you spot an area you’d like to wander through, feel free to pull over, get out, and blaze your own trail! Badlands is all about choosing your own adventure.

In this guide to the must-do hikes in Badlands National Park, you’ll find the recommended hiking trails listed from shorter to longer hikes.

These hikes are suitable for all ages and fitness levels because they have very little elevation gain, making it easy for everyone to experience the incredible, otherworldly beauty of the Badlands. Lace up your boots and get ready to explore one of America’s most unique landscapes!

Best Hikes in Badlands National Park

1. Fossil Exhibit Trail

The Fossil Exhibit Trail is a short hike along a boardwalk that offers a fascinating glimpse into the ancient past of Badlands National Park.

Winding through layered rock formations that hold millions of years of Earth’s history, this 0.25-mile loop passes through an area known for having one of the most concentrated mammal fossil beds in the world!

Along the trail, a series of well-designed interpretive panels explain the geologic history of the region and introduce visitors to some of the incredible animals that once roamed the area—ranging from three-toed horses and ancient camels to giant marine reptiles.

The trail is fully wheelchair-accessible and perfect for families, offering both education and scenic views without the need for strenuous hiking.

Whether you’re a fossil enthusiast or just curious about the Badlands’ prehistoric past, this trail is a must-stop for visitors of all ages!

2. Saddle Pass Trail

The Saddle Pass Trail is a short but steep hike that delivers big rewards! This 0.25-mile trail climbs sharply up the side of the Badlands Wall, offering a challenging scramble over loose gravel and rugged terrain.

Though the distance is brief, the ascent is strenuous and can be slippery—proper footwear and caution are essential.

Once at the top, hikers are treated to panoramic views of the surrounding badlands and prairie below. From here, you can simply enjoy the vistas or continue on by connecting to the Castle Trail or Medicine Root Trail for a longer backcountry adventure.

This hiking trail is a great option for anyone seeking a more challenging adventure and a chance to experience the dramatic terrain of the Badlands up close. Avoid this trail when wet, as the clay-like soil becomes slick and treacherous.

3. Cliff Shelf Trail

The Cliff Shelf Nature Trail is a short, scenic loop that offers a unique glimpse into the contrasting ecosystems of Badlands National Park. This 0.5-mile trail winds through a juniper-lined hillside nestled beneath the towering formations of the Badlands Wall.

At the beginning of the hike, elevated boardwalks and gravel paths will guide you through a surprising pocket of greenery fed by a natural spring—an oasis compared to the arid badlands that surround it.

Interpretive signs along the way highlight the area’s geology, plant life, and wildlife, making it a great educational stop for families and nature lovers.

Next, a dramatic wooden staircase climbs 200 feet to an observation deck, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views over Badlands National Park. From the upper portion of the trail, sweeping panoramas of the White River Valley and the park’s jagged rock formations stretch as far as the eye can see.

With moderate elevation gain, a few stairs, and plenty of shade along parts of the route, the Cliff Shelf Nature Trail provides a refreshing change of pace and perspective.

>>Read: Cliff Shelf Nature Trail: A Scenic Hike in Badlands National Park

4. Door Trail

The Door Trail is a short but memorable hike that offers a perfect introduction to the dramatic landscapes of Badlands National Park. This 0.75-mile round-trip trail begins along a boardwalk that will lead you through striking prairie terrain to a natural break in the Badlands Wall—an opening known as “The Door.”

Once you pass through this gap, you’ll suddenly be immersed in a surreal world of eroded buttes, jagged spires, and colorful layered rock formations that stretch into the distance like a scene from another planet!

Beyond the boardwalk, you’re free to wander across the rugged terrain along a marked path of yellow posts, giving you the chance to explore the unique textures and contours of the landscape up close.

Despite its short length and minimal elevation gain, the Door Trail provides big views and a real sense of adventure, making it a must-do for first-time visitors to Badlands National Park.

5. Notch Trail

The Notch Trail is one of the most popular and adventurous hikes in Badlands National Park, offering a thrilling experience through dramatic scenery!

This 1.5-mile round-trip trail begins with a gentle walk through a canyon flanked by rugged rock walls, then quickly ramps up the excitement with a steep climb up a wooden log ladder bolted into the side of a cliff.

While the Notch Trail isn’t long, it’s best suited for hikers who are comfortable with heights and navigating uneven terrain. Avoid this trail during or after rain, as the route can become slippery and hazardous.

>>Read: Hike the Notch Trail at Sunset: See the Badlands Glow in Pink and Purple Hues!

6. Window Trail

The Window Trail is a quick and easy stroll that delivers a big visual reward in very little time. This 0.25-mile round-trip walk follows a flat boardwalk through arid landscape to a natural opening in the Badlands Wall known as “The Window.”

Framed by craggy rocks, the viewpoint looks out over a dramatic eroded canyon filled with sculpted pinnacles, deep gullies, and colorful sediment layers that reveal the park’s geologic history.

Although the trail is short and accessible, the view it offers is expansive and iconic! Especially at sunrise or sunset when the soft light brings out the textures and warm hues of the rock formations.

The Window Trail is a great stop for all visitors, including families and those with limited time or mobility. It is easily combined with hiking the Door Trail and Notch Trail since the trailheads for all three hikes are the same.

7. Medicine Root Trail

The Medicine Root Trail offers a quieter, more contemplative hike through the heart of Badlands prairie country. This 4 mile round-trip trail branches off the popular Castle Trail and winds through wide-open grasslands, providing a different perspective of the park’s landscape.

Along the way, you might spot wildflowers in season, fossil fragments embedded in the earth, and wildlife such as prairie dogs or mule deer. The terrain is mostly flat, making it a relatively easy walk, though sun exposure and strong winds can be factors to consider.

This hike highlights the subtle beauty of the mixed-grass prairie rather than the dramatic spires and cliffs found elsewhere in the park. While the trail may not be as visually striking as the park’s more rugged hikes, it offers a peaceful escape into Badlands backcountry and a chance to experience the region’s quieter side.

You can hike the Medicine Root Trail as an out-and-back or combine it with sections of the Castle Trail to create a scenic loop.

8. Castle Trail

The Castle Trail is the longest hiking trail in Badlands National Park, stretching 10 miles round-trip through some of the park’s most scenic and varied terrain.

Despite its length, the trail is mostly flat and suitable for hikers of all levels, offering an immersive journey through the park’s rugged backcountry.

Along the way, you’ll pass beneath towering spires and eroded buttes, traverse open grasslands, and walk through strikingly desolate landscapes shaped by wind and time. Wildlife sightings are possible too—keep an eye out for Bighorn sheep, Pronghorn antelope, and even rattlesnakes sunning along the path.

The trail can be accessed from either the Fossil Exhibit Trailhead on the west end or from the Door, Window, and Notch Trail parking area on the east end.

While it’s an out-and-back route, many hikers choose to add variety by incorporating the Medicine Root Trail, which connects to the Castle Trail and allows for a scenic loop through the prairie.

Be prepared with water, sun protection, and sturdy shoes, as there’s little shade and the trail can feel longer in the heat.

For those seeking solitude and a deeper connection to the vastness of the Badlands, the Castle Trail is a must-do hike.

Tips for hiking in Badlands National Park

Start Early or Late: To avoid the midday heat in summer, plan to hike early in the morning or later in the evening. Sunrise and sunset are also the most beautiful times for photography.

Protect Yourself from the Sun: All of the hiking trails in Badlands National Park are exposed. Mineral sunscreen, sunglasses, and protective clothing are must-haves.

Bring Plenty of Water: The Badlands can get extremely hot and dry during summer. Pack more water than you think you’ll need. If you’re in the market for a new water bottle, check out these sleek hydroflasks that will keep your drinks cold for hours!

Watch Your Step: The rugged terrain can be uneven and crumbly. Stay on marked trails when possible, and be cautious when exploring the backcountry.

Stay Safe Around Wildlife: Keep your distance from animals like bison, bighorn sheep, and rattlesnakes. Never approach or feed wildlife.

Bring Binoculars: If you’re into wildlife spotting, don’t forget your binoculars! We recommend these lightweight, highly-rated binoculars that are perfect for spotting bighorn sheep and prairie dogs in the distance.

Prepare for Rapid Weather Changes: The weather in the Badlands can shift quickly, and the area is prone to violent thunderstorms in summer. Snowstorms are even possible throughout the year 😲 It’s best to carry a rain jacket designed for hiking in downpours, and always check the weather forecast before heading out.