Epic Badlands National Park: Breathtaking Landscapes, Wildlife & the Thrilling Notch Trail, SD

On June 5, 2022, we left our Airbnb in Rapid City early in the morning and headed toward Badlands National Park. We soon realized we had entered the wrong route and ended up near Pine Ridge Reservation before correcting our course. What could have been a frustrating detour turned into one of the most scenic drives of our trip. The landscape outside my passenger window was so mesmerizing that I didn’t mind the extra time on the road. Rolling green meadows stretched toward the horizon, interrupted by dramatic rock formations, jagged canyons, and endless prairie. I filmed many of the videos from the moving car, trying to capture the incredible scenery.

Along the way, we spotted prairie dogs, bison, deer, and countless cattle grazing peacefully across the expansive grasslands. Eventually, we reached the park and made a quick stop at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center before continuing to the trailhead. The parking lot was already quite crowded, a sign that we weren’t the only ones eager to explore this extraordinary landscape.

We hiked the Notch Trail, stopping along the way to take in the Window Trail overlook. At only about 1.5 miles, the Notch Trail is relatively short, but don’t let the distance fool you. It is rated moderate because of a steep wooden ladder and sections with unguarded drop-offs. The challenge was well worth it. The trail wound through the rugged formations, eventually opening to spectacular views across the Badlands. Walking among the towering formations and deeply eroded canyons felt almost surreal—as if we had stepped into another world.

The landscape is not only beautiful but also rich in history and geology. The area was proposed as a national park in 1922, and the Lakota people referred to this rugged terrain as “bad lands” because its geography made it difficult to travel through and survive, particularly during rainy conditions. Evidence suggests the area was used seasonally for hunting rather than as a permanent settlement. The park’s remarkable geological formations were shaped over millions of years, and the exposed layers of sediment tell the story of the landscape’s long history.

Our visit left me wanting to experience the Badlands in an entirely different way. I would love to return for an astrophotography tour. With the park’s remote location and dark skies, I can only imagine how spectacular these dramatic formations must look beneath a sky filled with stars.

If You Go

Location: Badlands National Park, South Dakota
Best time to visit: Spring through fall generally offers the most accessible conditions, though each season provides a different experience.
Notch Trail: Approximately 1.5 miles and rated moderate.
Trail challenge: Be prepared for a steep ladder and exposed sections with unguarded drop-offs.
Visitor Center: Stop at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center for information, exhibits, and current park conditions.
Wildlife: Keep an eye out for bison, prairie dogs, deer, and other wildlife. Never approach or feed animals.
Photography: Bring a wide-angle lens if possible. The colorful rock formations, canyons, and expansive prairie provide incredible photo opportunities.
Driving tip: Pay close attention to your route and park entrances. The Badlands are larger and more spread out than you might expect.
Stargazing: Stay after dark if conditions allow. The park is an excellent destination for night-sky photography.
What to bring: Plenty of water, sun protection, sturdy hiking shoes, and layers. Weather can change quickly on the open prairie.