Badlands National Park

Established hiking trails are short and of easy to moderate difficulty. There are several self-guiding nature walks, and off-trail hiking is permitted. If you're a backpacker or just like to travel cross-country, you're welcome to venture off-trail, but might want to discuss your route with a park ranger before starting out. She or he will probably know something that you don't, but wish you did.

Hiking Tips - Keep in Mind
Always carry water. Two quarts per person per two hour hike is recommended.

A hat and sunglasses are strongly recommended, as well as rain gear since weather conditions can change rapidly.

Keep your distance from all wildlife encountered during your hike. Any wildlife can be unpredictable. Keep a distance of at least 100 yards.

Remember that all park resources—fossils, plants, animals, artifacts, and rocks—are to remain as you find them. Each person is entitled to the same sense of discovery you experience when traveling the park trails.

If you find any artifacts or large or unusual fossils, please stop by the Ben Reifel Visitor Center and ask to complete a report. Be prepared to accurately describe the location and positioning of the find. Do not move or remove any resources. Thousands of fossils are scattered throughout the park. Your reports will be investigated as the park paleontology staff is available to see if another significant fossil bed has been discovered.

Go to:
Day Hiking Trails
Backpacking