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

The Notch Trail in Badlands National Park offers one of the most thrilling and scenic hikes in the park, especially when experienced at sunset. This hiking trail winds through dramatic rock formations, but the real highlight is the ladder climb which adds an element of adventure and provides an exciting way to explore the park’s breathtaking views.

The Notch Trail is one of the most popular and thrilling hikes in Badlands National Park. This short 1.5-mile (2.4 km) round-trip hike packs in a lot of adventure, making it a must-do for anyone seeking an up-close and exhilarating experience in the Badlands.

The trail winds through a dramatic canyon, climbs a tall wooden ladder, and follows a narrow ledge along the Badlands Wall before ending at a spectacular overlook with sweeping views of the White River Valley and Pine Ridge Reservation.

While the distance is short, the terrain is extremely exciting! Expect uneven footing, moderate elevation gain, and a bit of a scramble in places. The ladder climb and cliff-side hike may be intimidating for those with a fear of heights, but it’s well worth the effort for the scenery at the end and unique perspective of the Badlands.

Whether you hike it under the midday sun or at golden hour when the rocks glow in rich pink and purple hues, the Notch Trail offers an unforgettable adventure!

Best time to hike the Notch Trail

The best time to hike the Notch Trail is either early in the morning or about an hour before sunset. These cooler parts of the day make the experience much more enjoyable—especially during the summer when midday heat can be intense.

Sunset hikes are particularly magical, as the surrounding rock formations light up in dreamy pink and purple hues that make this already thrilling hike even more memorable.

Spring and fall are ideal seasons for hiking the Notch Trail, offering mild temperatures and fewer crowds. If you do plan to hike near sunset, be sure to bring a flashlight or headlamp for the return trip—especially since parts of the trail like the cliff edge and ladder section require sure footing.

How to hike the Notch Trail

The Notch Trail begins on a long boardwalk that cuts through an open field of prairie grass, offering a gentle and scenic start to your adventure.

In spring, this area is likely more vibrant and green but when we visited in midsummer, the grass had turned a warm, wheat-colored hue that glowed beautifully at sunset.

Soon, the boardwalk gives way to a sandy trail leading toward a cluster of rugged rock formations. From a distance, they might not look particularly tall—but standing beneath them, you’ll quickly realize how massive these buttes really are.

It’s here that the trail becomes even more fun, winding through a maze of rocks and offering a bit of light scrambling as you make your way through the base of the Badlands Wall.

We lingered in this section completely mesmerized by the golden glow of sunset. The low light brought out incredible hues in the rocks—vivid shades of pink, red, and orange—and the sky above was a dreamy wash of color. It was one of those moments that made us slow down and just soak it all in.

Then comes the highlight of the hike, a tall wooden log ladder that climbs up the cliffside. This is what gives the Notch Trail its adventurous reputation.

While the ladder might look intimidating at first, it’s surprisingly stable and hugs the rock wall securely. Even those who are afraid of heights (like me) will likely feel comfortable giving it a go. And if you’re hiking with kids, this part is guaranteed to be a hit!

Once you reach the top, the trail follows a narrow ledge along the Badlands Wall. Take your time here, especially if the lighting is low (this section offers some of the most dramatic views of the hike).

At the end of the trail, you’ll arrive at a spectacular viewpoint that looks southwest over the Pine Ridge Reservation and all the way toward Nebraska.

The landscape here is vast and open, dotted with scattered rock formations, and feels completely different from the spire-filled canyons near the Door and Window viewpoints.

As the sun dips below the horizon, you’ll see distant lights begin to twinkle across the plains, though the surrounding area remains wonderfully wild and sparsely populated.

If you’re planning a sunset hike, I recommend starting about an hour before the sun goes down. We started ours right at sunset and wished we had begun just a bit earlier—the light was still beautiful, but we didn’t have quite enough time to capture the full range of colors before it got too dark for good photos.

Also, don’t forget to pack a flashlight or headlamp in your daypack. The trail, particularly the cliffside section, can be uneven and tricky to navigate once it gets dark. A bit of extra light will go a long way in helping you stay safe and confident on the way back.

Whether you’re looking for an adventurous trail with a unique payoff or simply want to witness the Badlands glowing in rich sunset colors, the Notch Trail is absolutely worth your time! Take it slow, enjoy the views, and let the magic of golden hour transform the landscape around you.

Tips for hiking the Notch Trail

Hike early or late in the day. The Badlands sun can be intense during summer. Mornings and evenings offer cooler temperatures and better lighting for photos.

Bring sun protection. There is no shade along the trail. Wear mineral sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to stay protected.

Bring plenty of water. There is no shade along the trail and South Dakota’s dry heat can be deceptively draining. If you’re in the market for a new water bottle, check out these sleek hydroflasks that will keep your drinks cold for hours!

Wear sturdy footwear. The trail includes uneven terrain, loose gravel, and rocky ledges. Hiking shoes or trail runners with good traction are recommended.

Be prepared for the ladder climb. The most famous feature of this hike is a steep wooden ladder you must climb to reach the next section of the trail. Take your time, use both hands, and wear shoes with good grip for safety.

Watch your step along the ledge. After the ladder, the trail follows a narrow ledge with steep drop-offs. While not overly difficult, those with a fear of heights should take caution.

Respect wildlife. Bighorn sheep and rattlesnakes are sometimes spotted along the trail. Keep a safe distance and stay alert, especially in rocky areas where snakes may be hiding.

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.

Check the weather. Rain makes the ladder and rocky sections slippery, and storms can develop quickly in the Badlands. It’s best to carry a rain jacket designed for hiking in downpours, and always check the weather forecast before heading out.

Discover more hidden gems near the Notch Trail

Cliff Shelf Nature Trail: This short but rewarding hike in Badlands National Park offers a unique perspective of the landscape, first winding through juniper-lined boardwalks then climbing a staircase to a scenic overlook with sweeping views of the South Dakota plains.

Wall Drug: Wall Drug is a famous roadside attraction in Wall, South Dakota, known for its free ice water, quirky billboards, and massive gift shop. Originally a small drugstore in the 1930s, it has since grown into a must-visit stop for travelers heading to Badlands National Park.

Rapid City: Rapid City, South Dakota, is the gateway to the Black Hills and a hub for exploring Mount Rushmore, Badlands National Park, and Custer State Park. Known as the “City of Presidents,” it features a downtown lined with life-sized statues of U.S. presidents, along with vibrant arts, dining, and outdoor attractions.

Where to stay near the Notch Trail

Cedar Pass Campground is located inside Badlands National Park and very close to The Notch Trail. This campground offers campsites for tent and RV camping. The campground is open from early April through mid-October.

Cedar Pass Lodge is the sole lodging facility within Badlands National Park, situated near the Ben Reifel Visitor Center along Highway 240. This lodge offers modern cabin accommodations and a full-service restaurant, providing visitors with comfortable amenities amidst the park’s striking geological formations.​

Best Western Plains Motel is within walking distance of the Wall Drugstore tourist attraction and only a short drive away from the west entrance of Badlands National Park. This affordable hotel features spacious rooms, free breakfast, and an indoor and outdoor swimming pool.

Where is the Notch Trailhead?

The Notch Trailhead is located in Badlands National Park, just off Badlands Loop Road (Highway 240) at the Door, Window, and Notch Trails parking area. This popular trailhead is about one mile east of the Ben Reifel Visitor Center and is well-marked with signs. The parking lot provides easy access to multiple trails, making it a great starting point for exploring the park.

Pin For Later!