South Dakota has jaw-dropping landscapes, with one being Badlands National Park. In one day, you can explore the beauty of this National Park through viewpoints and short hikes, all showing off stunning views. Here is an itinerary for exploring one day in Badlands National Park!
Looking for a full weekend exploring South Dakota’s beauty? Check out how to spend a weekend visiting The Badlands and The Black Hills.
How To Get To The Badlands
If you are coming from a nearby state, then you can get to the Badlands by doing a road trip. Otherwise, fly into Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP) and rent a car. From the airport to The Badlands, it is 55 miles and about an hour’s drive.
Where to Stay
The Badlands
There is one lodge in the park which is the Cedar Pass Lodge and there are two campgrounds in the park as well. Otherwise, you can stay in the town of Wall, just about 15 minutes from the park entrance. A few popular hotels include Best Western Plains Motel, America’s Best Value Inn, and the Days Inn. Do not expect anything fancy for these hotels but they are exactly what you need for staying the night.
When To Visit
The best time for exploring The Badlands in South Dakota is Spring-Fall (April-October). The Spring can include rain, with highs of 60-70 degrees (Fahrenheit) and lows of 30-40 degrees. July and August are the most popular and you can expect sun, heat, and increased crowds. Temperature highs will be around 80-90 degrees, with lows in the 60’s. The fall provides less crowds, but still warm temperatures.
I went in early September and I thought this was the best time to visit South Dakota! The weather was pleasant and the crowds were manageable. Mornings were cool so I wore sweatshirts/jackets to start, but then as it heated up I was wearing shorts and a tank top.
Tips Before You Go
Make sure to visit the National Park Website for The Badlands before your trip to get updated information regarding fees and closures.
One Day In Badlands National Park
While visiting The Badlands, you should visit the famous Wall Drug, a cowboy-themed mall, to see this unique attraction. If coming from the town of Wall, then stop here first and walk around the shops and have breakfast before heading to The Badlands.
It is time to explore The Badlands National Park! Just about 15 minutes from Wall, you will arrive at the entrance to the park. You will drive around the Badlands Loop Road (Highway 240) to explore The Badlands. The scenic drive is 30 miles with various viewpoints and short hikes to get out of the car and explore the beauty. Get out at any spot that looks intriguing to you! Although ALL provide spectacular views, if you need help, here are my recommendations.
Scenic Overlooks
Pinnacles Overlook: Spectacular panorama view of endless terrain.
Yellow Mounds Overlook: A unique viewpoint as it showcases the colors of the distinct formations.
Panorama Point Overlook: A top viewpoint, it provides a spectacular panorama view including views of the distant vista.
White River Valley Overlook: Breathtaking view of the rugged terrain. It is also a great place to watch the sunset.
Big Badlands Overlook: Amazing view of the unique formations of the park. This is especially incredible at sunrise.
Hikes
Notch Hike: This is the best hike in The Badlands! It is 1.4 miles round-trip and you can see incredible scenic views and unique formations up close. The best part of the hike is the tall log ladder you climb on!
Door and Window Trails: These are quick and easy hikes (0.5 miles and 0.3 miles, respectively) on boardwalks to explore the formations up close.
Fossil Exhibit Trail: This is an easy 0.3-mile walk on a boardwalk with informative signs and fossil replicas.
Castle Trail/Saddle Pass Trail/Medicine Root Trail: This is a 5-mile loop, starting at Saddle Pass Trailhead. There are incredible views on this route!
Seeing The Badlands at sunrise or sunset is spectacular, so if you can work this into your itinerary, I would highly recommend it.
This concludes your one day in Badlands National Park! With plenty of views and short hikes, The Badlands provide truly unique and incredible landscapes. If you want to extend your trip to South Dakota, then add on more days in The Black Hills using this weekend in South Dakota itinerary.
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