Badlands National Park

Enjoy South Dakota's amazing landscapes and steep canyons.

Visitors love the beauty of the scenic hills and pinnacles which were formed over hundreds of years of erosion. There is a maze of buttes, several canyons, plus spires and pinnacles within the 244,000 rugged acres of land within the park. The sandstones feature several different colors, and it has the largest undisturbed mixed grass prairie in the United States. Be in awe of the 100 mile-long stretch featuring 100 foot-tall spires and cliffs in the canyon. Wildlife abounds in the region, including bison, bighorn sheep, prairie dogs, mule deer, and coyotes.

The Viewpoints Trails are short and have a boardwalk along a crushed rock surface, leading to a scenic view. Visitors may also enjoy Notch Trail, a 1.5-mile round-trip hike with dramatic views of the White River Valley and the dazzling sandstone formations. The Notch Trail has a log ladder and a ledge with drop-offs, so it is ideal for more experienced hikers. The Badlands Loop Road is another option for those who don't want to hike around during the heat of the day. Movies that feature parts of the Badlands National Park include Dances with Wolves (1990) and Thunderheart (1992). Explore the natural beauty of South Dakota at Badlands National Park with your friends and family.