2 Day Budget-Friendly Itinerary | Badlands National Park
Why Visit Badlands National Park?
It might just be me, but when I hear of national parks my first thought isn't the Badlands. However, after visiting South Dakota multiple times I can say that the Badlands are most definitely underrated. Not only is there all levels of hiking trails available, there is plenty wildlife to see. Not to mention you can't beat a South Dakota sunset over the rocks. One of the biggest benefits of this park is the accessibility. It is smaller in comparison to more well known national parks which means you can see everything in just a couple days while also beating massive crowds. It's the perfect spot for a long weekend getaway or tied into a roadtrip. This guide is made up of my favorite things to do and see while in the Badlands!
NOTE: There is a park access fee of $15.00 per day. Or you can buy an annual pass, good for any national park all year, for $55.00. These can be purchased online or at the park gate with a credit/ debit card
Where to stay:
If you're like me and looking to save some cash when traveling, I always recommend camping. Whether it's tent camping, car camping or simply sleeping out under the stars, lodging is a great way to save money while traveling. There are plenty of campgrounds available near national parks, but you can also find free places to stay like dispersed camp grounds. Using apps like compendium help you find free and paid sites with reviews on accessibility, phone service, and amenities.
The Key with dispersed campgrounds is getting there early to secure your spot. Most times there will still be spots available, but the earlier you get there the better views you will have. I recommend getting to camp by 5:00 pm to get a good spot and allow time to set up camp.
Day 1: Hiking The Badlands
Since the Badlands National Park is smaller in comparison to most, you can see most of what the park has to offer in one day. When entering the park don't forget your parks pass with a photo ID, or your day pass. Don't worry if you forgot to purchase it before your trip, they offer the passes at the gates as well. I recommend printing your pass ahead of time if you can, that way it saves you extra time to enjoy the park. Don't forget to take the maps they offer you as well! Sometimes service can go out, and it's easy to get lost on the back roads (or maybe I'm just bad with directions).
My first stop in any national park is the visitor center. They have information regarding the parks history and various souvenir options! My go to souvenirs are always post cards and a new sticker for my hiking water bottle. Once you've explored the visitor centers its time to head to the trail heads.
When driving to the trailheads, feel free to stop at the many overlooks for breathtaking photo opportunities. You will probably even get lucky and see some bison, prairie dogs, bighorn sheep and even prong horn! Remember to always keep your distance from the wildlife, as you are in their territory and they can be dangerous.
Now Let's Start Hiking--
Notch Trail ↠
One of my favorite hikes in the Badlands is Notch Trail. It is considered a moderate to easy hike, however it does involve some steep climbing and a long rope ladder up to the top of the trail. It begins on an easy path along the rock structures until they slowly surround you. Once you reach the top of the ladder it opens up to 360 views of massive colorful rocks! As you keep going farther into the trail, there are alcoves and smaller turn offs you can explore. Just be careful to remember where you are going and to stay close to the main trail as to not get lost. The end of the notch trail leads to a massive overlook of the prairies. I find that this hike is a good starting point to get your body moving and see the variety of landscapes the Badlands has to offer. Feel free to take your time and enjoy this hike. It has a lot to offer and is more enjoyable when taking things slow. This hike is 1.5 miles and with its popularity I find it best to get a head start and begin your day with it!
Castle Trail ↠
After finishing the Notch Trail, you'll probably be a bit hungry. Take a break and find one of the many pull offs with picnic tables to enjoy a snack or packed lunch with a view!
When you're ready to get back to it, I recommend one long hike to finish off the day. The castle trail takes you through majority of the park, allowing you to get the most out of your day trip. It may seem intimidating as it's 10.3 miles. However it takes an average of 3-4 hours to complete. If you're not up for the whole hike, you can always turn around and head back whenever you'd like.
Day 2: Wall Drug + Mount Rushmore
The infamous Wall Drug--
If you're driving into the Badlands, you'll know exactly what I'm talking about. About 100 miles out each way, dozens of billboards are plastered with the wall drug logo. What exactly is it, you ask? Well honestly I barely know how to describe it. It's one of those things you have to see for yourself. Wall drug started as a place known for travelers to get free water. It is now a historical and cultural site that has been frozen in time. You can spend quite some time wandering around shopping while experiencing a pretty cool historical site. It feels wrong to go to the Badlands, and not stop at Wall Drug. Swing by there in the morning for some coffee and breakfast, wander around and maybe even mail out some postcards at the cute post office in town.
Mount Rushmore, National Monument--
I don't know about you, but after learning about Mount Rushmore in elementary school I've always wanted to go. Simply for the fact I wanted to say I've seen it. Well, now I have and I can say it's worth seeing! Only 30 minute scenic drive away from the Badlands, is the massive monument. It will cost you $10.00 in parking once you're there but then you are free to go explore and walk to the edge view of the monument. Bring a camera if you can, it's worth documenting!
Other Must Sees in South Dakota
If have more time or want to plan a longer visit, check out some more gems of South Dakota!
Custer State Park--
Wind Cave National Park--
Black Hills National Forest--
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