Frommer's National Parks of the American West - Don Laine [30]
Castle Trail
5 miles RT. Moderate. Access: Trailheads at Fossil Exhibit Trail and at Door Trail parking area.
Winding more than 5 miles through the mixed-grass prairie and badlands, this is the longest developed trail in the park and runs parallel to some interesting formations. The fairly level trail connects the Fossil Exhibit Trail and the Doors and Windows parking area. Just walking this trail a short distance from the Door Trail parking area brings the hiker close to outstanding formations. To make this a loop, follow the signs and turn off onto the well-marked Medicine Root Trail. The trail is not heavily used, making it an ideal spot to escape the crowds, but it can be treacherous during and just after a heavy rain.
Cliff Shelf Nature Trail
.5 mile RT. Moderate. Access: .5 miles north of Ben Reifel Visitor Center.
This popular trail takes you through a "slump" area where a good supply of water supports an oasis of green, which stands out in contrast to the stark badlands formations. A brochure describing a self-guided excursion can be purchased on the trail. The trail includes some steep sections and boardwalk stairs. Its parking lot cannot accommodate RVs towing other vehicles.
Door Trail
.6 mile RT. Moderate. Access: 2 miles northeast of Ben Reifel Visitor Center.
This trail winds through some of the "baddest" of the Badlands. The first 100 yards to a beautiful view at "The Door" are mostly downhill and accessible, with
assistance, to those in wheelchairs. The more rugged section takes off to the right of the viewing area; striped posts mark the way, indicating the safest route.
Fossil Exhibit Trail
.25 mile RT. Easy. Access: 5 miles northwest of Ben Reifel Visitor Center.
This easy boardwalk loop will give you an idea of what animal life was like 30 million years ago. Wheelchair accessible.
Notch Trail
1.5 miles RT. Moderate. Access: North end of Door Trail parking area.
This trail takes you up a wash between the buttes, then up a 45-degree angle wood-and-rope ladder, a climb that may rattle those afraid of heights. Follow the wash to the "Notch"; the payoff is a striking view overlooking the Cliff Shelf area and the White River Valley.
Saddle Pass Trail
.25 mile RT. Moderate to strenuous. Access: Branches off Castle Trail just west of intersection with Medicine Root Trail and leads to Badlands Loop Rd.
In less than .25 mile, this trail rises steeply 200 feet from the bottom of the Badlands Wall to the top, connecting with the Castle and Medicine Root trails. It's impassable after rains, so ask about trail conditions at the visitor center before you set out.
Window Trail
.25 mile RT. Easy to moderate. Access: Trailhead at center of Door Trail parking area.
A 100-yard boardwalk trail leads to a spectacular view through a "window," or opening, in the Badlands Wall. Wheelchair accessible.
Exploring the Backcountry
The park encompasses the largest prairie wilderness in the United States, where expansive grasslands make cross-country travel unique. Vast ranges of classic badlands provide rugged, challenging terrain for even skilled hikers. Wildlife is close and abundant. Best of all, it's never crowded; hikers often have hundreds of acres to themselves.
Unlike many national parks in the West, the Badlands has no formal system of backcountry permits or reservations. Let friends and relatives know when you depart and when you expect to return. Rangers at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center can assist in planning a safe, enjoyable excursion by offering directions, safety tips, maps, and information sheets.
When planning your backcountry hike, examine past, present, and forecasted weather carefully. With even a small amount of precipitation, some trails can become slick and impassable. Carry water if you think you could be out for as little as a half-hour. Cross-country hikers