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Badlands National Park
National park in South Dakota
Travel Tips
Plan on spending at least three hours, including time at viewpoints. 1
Stop at pull-offs for photo ops and visit the Ben Reifel Visitor Center to learn about the park's geology and wildlife. 2
Start early to enjoy the cool morning weather and less crowded viewpoints. 3
Plan at least three hours for stops and viewing. 4
Drive leisurely to enjoy the views, stopping often for photographs. The drive can be completed in a few hours, but taking your time allows for a fuller experience. 5
Stop at each viewpoint for the full experience. 6
Keep an eye out for native wildlife as you drive. 7
Keep your camera ready for stunning landscape shots and wildlife sightings. 8
Introduction
Scenic Drive
- ๐ฃ๏ธ Route: The Badlands Loop Road (SD 240) is a 39-mile loop that takes about one hour to drive without stops.
- ๐ธ Overlooks: There are 16 designated scenic overlooks, including Big Badlands Overlook, White River Valley Overlook, and Pinnacles Overlook.
- ๐ Accessibility: The road is suitable for all motor vehicles but includes several steep passes and sections with reduced speed limits.
- ๐ Stops: Use overlooks and pull-outs to stop for photos and enjoy the views.
- ๐บ๏ธ Directions: Access the Loop Road from Interstate 90 via Exit 110 (Wall) or Exit 131 (Interior).
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Wildlife
- ๐พ Bison: Over 1,000 bison roam freely in the park.
- ๐ Bighorn Sheep: Often seen near the Cedar Pass area.
- ๐ Prairie Dogs: Found in multiple locations, often near prairie dog towns.
- ๐ฆ Black-Footed Ferret: One of North Americaโs most endangered animals, occasionally spotted in the park.
- ๐ฆ Pronghorn Antelope: Frequently seen in association with prairie dog towns.
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Hiking Trails
- ๐ถ Door Trail: A 0.9-mile easy family-friendly walk with sweeping views of the Badlands.
- ๐ถ Window Trail: A quick 0.3-mile walk to rock formations that form a window to the Badlands.
- ๐ถ Notch Trail: A 1.5-mile roundtrip hike that includes climbing a ladder and offers stunning views.
- ๐ถ Saddle Pass Trail: A strenuous hike that provides a hands-on experience of the landscape.
- ๐ถ Fossil Exhibit Trail: A 0.4-mile boardwalk trek with exhibits displaying various fossils.
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Visitor Centers
- ๐๏ธ Ben Reifel Visitor Center: Located at the southeastern tip of the loop, offers information, maps, exhibits, and ranger-guided programs.
- ๐๏ธ Cedar Pass Lodge: Next to the Ben Reifel Visitor Center, open from spring to fall.
- ๐๏ธ White River Visitor Center: Provides additional information and maps.
- ๐บ๏ธ Maps: Available at entry booths, visitor centers, and online.
- ๐ฅ Park Film: Available at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center.
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Safety Tips
- ๐ Pull-Offs: Use designated pull-outs or overlooks to stop for photos.
- ๐พ Wildlife: Keep a minimum of 100-foot distance from any wildlife.
- โ ๏ธ Speed Limits: Follow all posted speed limits, especially near parking lots.
- ๐ง๏ธ Weather: Check the weather as conditions can change rapidly.
- ๐ฑ Cell Service: Cell phone service can be spotty; pick up a park map.
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Events and Festivals
- ๐ Badlands Astronomy Festival: Held in summer, offers night sky exploration with expert astronomers.
- ๐ฃ๏ธ Ranger-Led Programs: Guided hikes, night sky viewings, and educational talks.
- ๐ Cultural Celebrations: Interpretive programs and events about the native Oglala Lakota Nation.
- ๐ Year-Round: The Ben Reifel Visitor Center is open year-round.
- ๐๏ธ Special Events: Check the park's website for a calendar of events.
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| Travel Information |
|---|
| ๐ย ย ย Phone: (605) 433-5361 |
| ๐ย ย ย Website: https://www.nps.gov/badl/index.htm |
| ๐ย ย ย Hours: See hours |
| ๐ย ย ย Address: South Dakota |
๐ย ย ย Profiles:     |
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