Badlands Loop Road SD 240
Explore the dramatic, eroded landscapes of Badlands National Park via the scenic SD 240 Loop Road. Witness unique geology, abundant wildlife, and brea...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds
Badlands Loop Road SD 240
Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the dramatic, eroded landscapes of Badlands National Park via the scenic SD 240 Loop Road. Witness unique geology, abundant wildlife, and breathtaking vistas.
"The Badlands Loop Scenic Drive is a fantastic experience with 'other worldly' views and the opportunity for hikes that bring you close to the landscape."
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Only visitor center has refills. Stay hydrated, especially on trails with no shade.
🥾 Hike with Caution
Trails have no shade. Wear sun protection and be mindful of the rugged terrain.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Notch Trail Adventure
Near Pinnacles Entrance
Hike this unique 1.2-mile trail with a thrilling ladder climb for stunning panoramic views. Not for the faint of heart!
Golden Hour Panoramas
Various Overlooks
Witness the Badlands transform at sunrise and sunset. Big Badlands Overlook and Burns Basin Overlook are prime spots for breathtaking light.
Prairie Dog Towns
Near Ben Reifel Visitor Center
Observe vast colonies of prairie dogs bustling about their unique underground cities. A fascinating glimpse into local wildlife.
Otherworldly Landscapes
Throughout the Loop Road
Drive the 30-mile loop and marvel at the dramatic, eroded buttes and spires that resemble an alien planet.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Slow Pace
Winter Wonders & Wildlife
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Only visitor center has refills. Stay hydrated, especially on trails with no shade.
🥾 Hike with Caution
Trails have no shade. Wear sun protection and be mindful of the rugged terrain.
📸 Capture the Golden Hour
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photos. +1
🚗 Drive Slowly & Stop Often
The speed limit is low. Enjoy the numerous pull-offs and observation points.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Only visitor center has refills. Stay hydrated, especially on trails with no shade.
🥾 Hike with Caution
Trails have no shade. Wear sun protection and be mindful of the rugged terrain.
📸 Capture the Golden Hour
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photos. +1
🚗 Drive Slowly & Stop Often
The speed limit is low. Enjoy the numerous pull-offs and observation points.
🦬 Look for Wildlife
Keep an eye out for bison, pronghorn, and prairie dogs.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the 'otherworldly' and 'alien planet' landscapes, calling the Badlands Loop Road a 'fantastic experience' and 'absolutely gorgeous.' The opportunity for unique hikes and wildlife viewing, like prairie dogs and bison, are major highlights. Some note that the park is best enjoyed at a slower pace, advising against rushing through.
"The Badlands Loop Scenic Drive is a fantastic experience with "other worldly" views and the opportunity for hikes that bring you close to the landscape. This drive is best suited for those who are willing to slow down and enjoy their time in the Badlands. If you are in a hurry, it might be best to skip the Badlands on your trip.
There are a couple of routes you can take through the park. Depending on the route you take and the experiences you choose, it can take anywhere from half a day to a full day to drive through the park. If you want to do some extended hikes, then schedule multiple days here.
The speed is limited through most of the park. The amount of traffic and numerous pull outs and observation points will only lengthen your time in the park.
Bring plenty of liquids, as the only place to refill your water is at the visitor center located on the southern loop of the park.
Note that there is no shade on most of the trails. Follow safety guidelines and bring plenty of wayer. And wear sun protective gear when out for any extended time."
Dawn J
"Awesome Nature and wildlife. looks like an alien planet. Must visit for sure"
Sarah Phenia
"Very awesome national park."
Ashley Stanley
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Badlands Loop Road, also known as SD 240, is accessible from I-90. The Northeast Entrance is near Wall, SD, and the Pinnacles Entrance is on the southern side. Many visitors enter from the Northeast and exit via the Pinnacles, or vice versa, to experience the full scenic drive.
No, Badlands National Park has an entrance fee. However, free camping is available on Buffalo Gap National Grassland, which overlooks the badlands.
Yes, the Badlands Loop Road (SD 240) is a scenic drive that allows you to experience the park's unique geology and wildlife from your vehicle, with numerous pull-offs for viewing.
If you're heading towards the Black Hills, exiting via the Pinnacles Entrance and taking Sage Creek Rim Road west might be an option, or you can exit near Wall and connect to I-90. Consider your final destination when choosing your exit route.
Absolutely! The Badlands Loop Road is perfect for a road trip, offering stunning vistas and opportunities for short hikes. It's a memorable part of any South Dakota adventure. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entrance fees apply to Badlands National Park. Check the official NPS website for current pricing. Consider purchasing an America the Beautiful Pass if you plan to visit multiple national parks.
Yes, the America the Beautiful Pass, an annual national parks pass, covers entrance fees to Badlands National Park and many other federal recreation sites.
Badlands National Park is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, visitor centers have specific operating hours, which vary by season.
No, you do not need to book tickets in advance for the Badlands Loop Road itself. Entrance fees are paid upon arrival at the park.
There is no separate parking fee within Badlands National Park beyond the standard entrance fee. Parking is available at various overlooks and trailheads.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the Notch Trail for an adventurous hike, various overlooks for sunrise/sunset views like Big Badlands Overlook, and the prairie dog towns. The entire loop offers 'otherworldly' scenery. +1
The Notch Trail is a popular, unique hike with a ladder. Other options include the Door Trail, Window Trail, and Fossil Exhibit Trail, offering different perspectives of the landscape. +1
The scenic drive itself is about 30 miles if you include the I-90 stretch. However, with stops at overlooks and short hikes, it can take anywhere from half a day to a full day.
Yes, you can often see bison, pronghorn, bighorn sheep, and thousands of prairie dogs. Wildlife is more active in the cooler parts of the day.
Golden hour, during sunrise and sunset, provides the most dramatic lighting and colors for photography. The unique geological formations are stunning in the soft light. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants within Badlands National Park. The Ben Reifel Visitor Center may have limited snack options, but it's best to bring your own food and drinks.
The town of Wall, South Dakota, located near the Northeast Entrance, offers several dining options, including the famous Wall Drug Store.
Yes, picnicking is allowed in Badlands National Park. There are designated picnic areas, and you can also find scenic spots to stop and enjoy your meal. Remember to pack out all trash.
Pack plenty of water, snacks, and a packed lunch. Given the lack of services and the potential for heat, it's crucial to be self-sufficient.
Typically, there are no food trucks or mobile vendors operating within Badlands National Park. Plan to bring all your provisions with you.
📸 📸 Photography
Any overlook along the Loop Road offers incredible photographic opportunities. Key spots include Big Badlands Overlook, Burns Basin Overlook, and the views from the Notch Trail. +1
While beautiful year-round, autumn and spring offer softer light and fewer crowds. Winter provides a stark, dramatic landscape. Summer's harsh light can be challenging but still offers unique opportunities.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions and long exposures.
Experiment with different angles and compositions. Look for patterns in the erosion. Capture the scale by including a person or vehicle in your shots.
Yes, the Badlands are home to bison, pronghorn, and prairie dogs. Maintain a safe distance and use a telephoto lens for close-ups.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as services are limited. The dramatic, almost alien landscape provides endless opportunities for imaginative play and discovery. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) to avoid extreme summer heat and larger crowds, making the experience more enjoyable for everyone.
🚗 Road Trippers & Van Lifers
Plan for at least half a day to truly appreciate the park. The unique landscapes are perfect for capturing memorable photos and videos. Remember to be self-sufficient with food and water, as amenities are scarce within the park itself. The dramatic vistas make it a prime location for van life content creators.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
Don't overlook the Notch Trail for adventurous shots, or the prairie dog towns for wildlife photography. A wide-angle lens is essential for capturing the vastness, while a telephoto lens is useful for wildlife. Consider visiting during winter for a stark, less crowded photographic experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Badlands Loop Road (SD 240)
Travelers can enter the park from the Northeast Entrance near Wall, SD, or the Pinnacles Entrance on the south side. The speed limit is generally low, encouraging visitors to take their time and enjoy the views. Many visitors choose to drive the entire loop, stopping frequently for short walks and photo opportunities. The Ben Reifel Visitor Center, located on the southern loop, is a key point for information and water refills.
Consider your onward journey when deciding which direction to drive. If heading towards the Black Hills, exiting via the Pinnacles Entrance might be more convenient. Conversely, if coming from the Black Hills, entering via the Northeast Entrance near Wall is common. The road is paved and well-maintained, making it accessible for most vehicles.
Hiking Adventures in the Badlands
For shorter, more accessible hikes, the Door Trail and Window Trail are excellent choices. The Door Trail leads you onto the badlands floor through a natural opening in the rock formations, while the Window Trail offers views through 'windows' carved into the cliffs. The Fossil Exhibit Trail is a paved, accessible path that highlights the park's paleontological significance. Remember that most trails offer little to no shade, so always carry ample water, wear sun protection, and be prepared for rugged terrain.
When planning your hikes, check the weather conditions and your own fitness level. The park's dramatic beauty is best experienced up close, but safety should always be the top priority. The unique geology means trails can be steep and uneven, so sturdy footwear is essential.
Wildlife Encounters in the Badlands
One of the most charming inhabitants is the prairie dog. The park is home to extensive prairie dog towns, where you can observe these social creatures darting in and out of their burrows. The area near the Ben Reifel Visitor Center is particularly known for its large prairie dog colonies. Other wildlife you might encounter includes bighorn sheep, coyotes, and various bird species.
Wildlife is generally most active during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning and late afternoon. Dusk and dawn are also excellent times for photography. Remember to be patient and observant, and always respect the animals' space. Binoculars can enhance your viewing experience.
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