Jonae Fredericks
The Badlands of South Dakota are home to the Lakota tribe, who refer to the area as "maco sica" because of its rugged landscape. The terrain is a picturesque masterpiece carved by millions of year's worth of erosion which has left behind spires, buttes and treacherously deep canyons. Amongst the jagged spikes of rock are colorful plains full of roaming bison, bighorn sheep, antelope and the elusive black footed ferret which is now a protected species. Loop Road provides spectacular views of the Badlands right from the window of your car and a combination of foot and bike trails will bring you face-to-face with the breathtaking features of the park.
Tips & Warnings
If you are interested in seeing the Badlands but prefer to stay off the beaten track, you may do so at your own risk. The Badlands offers approximately 64,000 acres of remote wilderness that can be taken on by the skilled hiker. But keep in mind that if you do choose to make your way into the park and travel the backwoods trails of the badlands for an extended period of time, you must camp within a half-mile of either a marked trail or road.
If you will be traveling by plane to the Badlands of South Dakota, you will need to fly into Rapid City, S.D. This is the closest airport to the park; however, you will need to obtain a vehicle to travel the 80 miles from the Rapid City airport to Badlands National Park.
There is an alternate route into the Badlands if you are traveling from the North. You may find it easier to take exit 131 off of I-90 depending on your location. Exit 131 takes you through the town of Cactus Flat, where you can catch State Road 240 south into Badlands National Park.
If you are interested in seeing the Badlands but prefer to stay off the beaten track, you may do so at your own risk. The Badlands offers approximately 64,000 acres of remote wilderness that can be taken on by the skilled hiker. But keep in mind that if you do choose to make your way into the park and travel the backwoods trails of the badlands for an extended period of time, you must camp within a half-mile of either a marked trail or road.
If you will be traveling by plane to the Badlands of South Dakota, you will need to fly into Rapid City, S.D. This is the closest airport to the park; however, you will need to obtain a vehicle to travel the 80 miles from the Rapid City airport to Badlands National Park.
There is an alternate route into the Badlands if you are traveling from the North. You may find it easier to take exit 131 off of I-90 depending on your location. Exit 131 takes you through the town of Cactus Flat, where you can catch State Road 240 south into Badlands National Park.
Do not make the mistake of traveling to Badlands National Park without a map or GPS. The Badlands are not the suburbs where you can stop and ask for directions if you get lost. Many areas of Badlands National Park are desolate, and if you get lost it can feel a bit unnerving. It is also a good idea to travel into the Badlands with a full tank of gas. If you run out of gas during your sightseeing adventure, it's a long walk back to the park gates.
If you will be traveling on foot, always carry a sufficient amount of water. Minimum amounts are two quarts of water for every two hours of a hike. Also remember to wear proper footwear to avoid snake bites as well as cuts and scrapes. A hat to protect you from the sun is also recommended. Remember to keep at least 100 yards from any wildlife that you encounter while hiking. Wildlife can be unpredictable and dangerous, so give them their space.
Do not make the mistake of traveling to Badlands National Park without a map or GPS. The Badlands are not the suburbs where you can stop and ask for directions if you get lost. Many areas of Badlands National Park are desolate, and if you get lost it can feel a bit unnerving. It is also a good idea to travel into the Badlands with a full tank of gas. If you run out of gas during your sightseeing adventure, it's a long walk back to the park gates.
If you will be traveling on foot, always carry a sufficient amount of water. Minimum amounts are two quarts of water for every two hours of a hike. Also remember to wear proper footwear to avoid snake bites as well as cuts and scrapes. A hat to protect you from the sun is also recommended. Remember to keep at least 100 yards from any wildlife that you encounter while hiking. Wildlife can be unpredictable and dangerous, so give them their space.
