The Best Hiking Trails in South Dakota

Second to the [Big Badlands Overlook](https://fatmap.com/routeid/1740692/), the Window Trail is one of the shortest overlook hikes in Badlands National Park. Accessed via boardwalks and level terrain, this brief trek climbs less than 10' and is perfect for any age or ability....

The Door Trail is a classic short hike in Badlands National Park and located near the Park's Northeast Entrance. Less than one mile round-trip, it quickly introduces hikers to the incredibly beautiful and rugged landscape that makes the Badlands one of the most coveted areas in South Dakota....

The Fossil Exhibit Trail in Badlands National Park is a short boardwalk loop with several displays highlighting the wildlife that used to roam the region. [This source](https://utahsadventurefamily.com/fossil-exhibit-trail-badlands/) describes it as more of "an outdoor Visitor's Center than a hike to see some fossils," though its family-friendly feel and wheelchair accessibility make it a must-do hike if you have the time....

Whether you're looking for a quick pit stop, or planning to tour Badlands National Park, the Big Badlands Overlook eagerly awaits at the park's Northeast Entrance. Though it is one of the shortest overlook hikes in Badlands, this 30-minute round-trip walk offers awe-inspiring views to the east, showcasing the majestic geological formations the Badlands are known for....

The Prairie Vista Trail is a short and easy hike touring the rolling grasslands behind the visitor center. Wildlife sightings are common, with deer, elk, bison, pronghorn, and prairie dogs frequently seen roaming the hillsides....

The Elk Mountain Nature Trail offers campground visitors an easy stroll through lush grasslands shouldered against towering ponderosa pine. Through September and October, the park notes how "elk may be heard bugling at dawn and dusk," while deer, prairie dogs, and countless birds can be observed year-round....

Rankin Ridge is a spectacular short hike to the highest point in Wind Cave NP. The park describes it as an excellent option for families, "or those with little time to explore," and a historic fire tower rests atop the hill, though it has since been closed to the public....

Following a former road to the park's eastern boundary, Wind Cave Canyon is one of the best trails for birdwatching in the park; [Cold Brook Canyon](https://fatmap.com/routeid/2740940/cold-brook-canyon-trail/) as another excellent option. According to the park, "Limestone cliffs provide nesting areas for cliff swallows, canyon wrens, and great horned owls," while woodpeckers chip away at the "snag trees," a term used to describe dead and decomposing trees that are still upright....

Of all the hikes in Badlands National Park, Cliff Shelf Nature Trail offers some of the best views for your efforts. Just a half-mile in length, "most hikers will fly through this short hike with soaring views," according to [hikespeak....

The Notch Trail is one of three classic hikes near the Northeastern Entrance to Badlands National Park. In contrast to the [Door Trail](https://fatmap.com/routeid/1740527/), this hike is entirely on dirt and offers impressive views of classic badlands formations and seemingly-endless prairies....

The Castle Trail is the showpiece hiking trail in Badlands National Park. It's the longest maintained trail and makes for an excellent shuttle or loop when paired with the Medicine Root Trail - seen here....

Just minutes south of the main visitor center, Cold Brook Canyon Trail wanders through a beautiful canyon shouldered by stands of ponderosa pine. Remnants of a controlled fire are evident through much of the hike, and the barren hillsides host an active prairie dog community....

The George S. Mickelson Trail is a famous rail-trail that spans approximately 109 miles through the heart of the Black Hills. Named after former Governor George S. Mickelson, this trail follows the route of an old railroad line and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, including forests, meadows, and rugged terrain....

The Castle Trail is the showpiece hiking trail within Badlands. It's the longest maintained trail and makes for an excellent shuttle or loop when paired with the Medicine Root Trail. Along the way you'll pass through vast open prairies, mud hills, and "through intricately carved buttes, sod tables, washes and gullies with useful perspective on the powerful erosive forces that shape the Badlands....