The dramatic pinnacles and buttes of Badlands National Park provide a stark contrast to the surrounding prairie. Scenic drives, trails, and campsites give visitors many ways to take in this unique landscape and to spot bison, pronghorn, and bighorn sheep. The park also contains one of the world’s richest fossil beds.
This was a fully customized tour based on my interests, which made the whole experience unforgettable. Really knowledgeable and experienced tour guide! Highly recommend booking with My XO Adventures
Daniel is a knowledgeable guide, entertaining and informative about the Badlands and the Black Hills region. We also enjoyed hiking and visiting the Badlands and enjoyed learning more about the Delta 9 museum and video. The picnic presentation was really well done using a nice western table covering with real utensils, real food, and real fruit. It was really well done. Thanks again. You were awesome. I highly recommend the tour.
People Also AskQ:How many days do you need at Badlands National Park?
A:A weekend is enough for a leisurely drive through Badland National, but those hoping to tack on some outdoor adventures should plan for three days or more. This allows time to soak up the beauty of the Badlands at sunset, camp under the stars, and embark on a short backpacking trip.
Q:What is the best month to visit Badlands National Park?
A:September or October are the best months to experience ideal weather at Badlands National Park. In fall, temperatures are cooler and the crowds are thinner than in summer, allowing you to get unobstructed views of this picturesque location.
Q:How long does it take to drive around Badlands National Park?
A:You can drive the 39-mile (63-kilometer) Scenic Byway in Badlands National Park—including photo stops—in a couple of hours. However, if you're interested in hiking the trails further into the terrain, you may need to add a day or two to fully experience the area and its beauty.
Q:Is Badlands National Park worth it?
A:Yes, Badlands National Park is worth a visit. It offers postcard-worthy landscapes with unique rock formations, canyons, and a diverse range of wildlife in the grasslands. It’s a must-see for nature lovers and photographers visiting South Dakota, with activities including hiking, stargazing, and scenic drives.
Q:What should you not miss at Badlands National Park?
A:For an overview of South Dakota's Badlands National Park, drive the Scenic Bypass Loop—a self-driving loop that passes through some of the best parts of the park. Stop at the Pinnacles Overlook and Yellow Mounds Overlook for dramatic views of jagged rocks, then head off on the Notch Trail hike, famous for its log ladder.
Q:What do I need to know before going to Badlands National Park?
A:Be prepared for extreme weather, especially in summer and winter. Badlands National Park has a harsh desert climate, so pack seasonally appropriate layers and gear and bring enough water. Also, keep your eyes peeled for the park's unique wildlife, including bison, bighorn sheep, and coyotes—especially early in the morning.