Exploring Badlands -- Best Views, Trails, and Activities

Let’s take a trip to Badlands National Park!

In this episode of Exploring the National Parks, we are diving into all things Badlands so that you can plan your next trip to this amazing national park.

South Dakota is one of our favorite places to go on family vacations because there is so much for everyone to do no matter who you are or what you like. So we are so excited to take you along today as we explore Badlands!

Join us as we cover:

What Badlands actually is
Hikes in Badlands that you can’t miss
What it’s like to camp in Badlands and why you need to spend time looking at the stars
Stops to make while in this park
The open hike policy at Badlands
The best overlooks and viewpoints in this park
The effects of lighting on this park
The off-the-beaten-path stops you can make at Badlands
Why your trip isn’t complete without a trip to Wall Drug
The fascinating stop you’ll want to make in this area

If you’re ready to plan your trip to Badlands National Park and all South Dakota has to offer, get our itinerary!

Listen to the Full Podcast Episode:

Badlands National Park Overview

Exploring Badlands National Park and the Black Hills is like stumbling upon a hidden treasure trove of natural wonder. Often overshadowed by its more famous counterparts, this corner of the world offers an adventure-packed getaway waiting to be discovered. From the breathtaking rock formations to vast grasslands and quirky pit stops, let’s embark on a journey through this underrated National Park.

We were pleasantly surprised by how much we loved this grassland National Park compared to the more mountainous parks! We loved how far we could see over the open plains at Badlands National Park, especially at night when the stars were out.

Unveiling the Badlands through Our Favorite Trails

The adventure begins as you set off from Rapid City, cruising along Interstate 90 through the picturesque Buffalo Gap National Grassland. Prepare yourself for the Midwest’s flat and grassy expanses before being greeted by the unique landscape of the Badlands.

Our South Dakota National Parks itinerary will ensure you make the most of this scenic park, setting the stage for what’s ahead.

The Badlands are a geological marvel, with two distinct levels carving out stunning formations and displaying a palette of vibrant colors. Dive into the North Unit, home to the iconic Notch Trail, a favorite among many adventurers and often considered the best trail in the park.

The trail features a giant ladder (yes, really!), providing a thrill for those seeking a touch of adrenaline without the danger. Don’t let the initial intimidation sway you; it’s a family-friendly hike you and your kids will love. We loved this hike so much that it made our top-ranked National Park trails list.

While in the North Unit, the heart of the park, explore the Door Trail, an adventure akin to a scavenger hunt through the Badlands. Follow the markers and let the kids lead the way like we did; it’s an excellent interactive hike that keeps everyone engaged.

And just a stone’s throw away lies the Window Trail, offering a different perspective of this remarkable landscape. The Ben Reifel Visitor Center will be a hit with anyone who loves fossils and geology. Badlands National Park is best known for its paleontology, which you can watch in action at the visitor

Staying in the Park to Beat the Crowds

Camping at the Cedar Pass Campground near the Ben Reifel Visitor Center will offer you the best experience during your stay at Badlands National Park. Staying in the North Unit will keep you centrally located to all the hikes, drives, and viewpoints we recommend.

Unlike typical campgrounds with trees to provide shade, the Cedar Pass Campground has shelters to protect you from the unrelenting sun of the open prairie. Camping in the Badlands is a unique experience unlike any other we’ve experienced in a National Park. Alternatively, consider staying at the lodge, which has, in our opinion, very nice cabins renovated in 2013 available for reservation.

It’s common for visitors to the Badlands to stay in Rapid City rather than the park itself because there is so much to do in the Black Hills. When you stay at the Cedar Pass Campground or Lodge, the park feels like your private sanctuary during the quieter morning and evening hours.

Sunrise, Sunset, and All the Colors in Between

Speaking of evenings, the stars here are a spectacle worth witnessing. With minimal light pollution from Rapid City, it’s almost like the sky puts on a personal show just for you.

We were blown away by how far we could see across the horizon in the open grassland. It’s one point we’d give this park over the mountains. Stargazing at Badlands National Park became one of our favorite family memories.

The Badlands’ beauty is dynamic, shifting hues and shapes with the changing light. Timing is everything; catch the golden hour at sunrise or sunset to witness the landscape transform from orange and pink hues to soft whites and grays.

We highly recommend visiting Panorama Point Overlook, Pinnacles Overlook, Yellow Mounds Overlook, and Hay Butte Overlook, all of which are along the Badlands Loop Road. Watching the colors come to life in the evenings and mornings was like seeing the Wizard of Oz in real life when Dorothy left Kansas and landed in Oz.

If you find yourself wondering about how these breathtaking rock formations came to be, make sure to read our post on Badlands Fun Facts.

You might even spot some wildlife during these off-peak hours. While exploring, watch for Bighorn Sheep and even Buffalo dotting the landscape. We have never seen so many Bighorn Sheep in a National Park as we did at Badlands!

Off the beaten path, the Sage Creek Rim Road leads to the serene Hay Butte Overlook, a peaceful escape away from the crowds. Out here in the quiet, you’ll hear the squeaks of Prairie Dog Town as the furry cuties play in the grassland.

Visiting the World Famous Wall Drug and Historical Minuteman Missile Site

No Badlands trip is complete without a stop at Wall Drug, a place that perfectly encapsulates the Wild West’s charm. Indulge in their famed donuts and hot beef sandwiches while immersing yourself in the allure of the Old West.

Wall Drug started as a resting place for travelers to get free ice water, a luxury in times before gas stations existed as frequently as they do now. We enjoyed eating our donuts and drinking our free water as we wandered this Buffalo Bill-style mini-mall.

For a dose of history, visit the Minuteman Missile Site, where you’ll learn about the Cold War era when these missiles were operated 24/7, 365 days a year so they could launch missiles in a minute or less. The National Park Service also owns this site, so you can join the Junior Ranger program. It’s an eye-opening experience delving into a part of American history that’s both fascinating and impactful.

Visit this Underrated National Park

With its unique trails, breathtaking vistas, and intriguing history, Badlands National Park is a destination that promises adventure and surprises at every turn. Check out our list of 8 Things You Can’t Miss On Your First Visit to Badlands to ensure you hit all the highlights.

Pack your bags, embark on this lesser-known escapade, and uncover the wonders of the Badlands National Park and the Black Hills region. We know you’ll be delighted by this underrated National Park.

Links mentioned in this episode:

Are you hoping to visit all of the national parks? Sign up for your FREE NATIONAL PARKS CHECKLIST so you can easily see where you’ve been and where you still need to go!

Don’t Miss the Next Episode of the Exploring the National Parks Podcast

Join in the fun weekly! We are always sharing new stories and fun facts about the incredible national parks. Please subscribe on your favorite platform:

and more

If you enjoy the podcast, we would be so grateful if you could leave us a rating or review wherever you listen to the podcast!

Connect with Ash and John

YouTube

Instagram

Facebook

Looking for more podcast episodes? Click here to browse all episodes of the Exploring the National Parks podcast.