Badlands National Park is truly one of South Dakota’s most precious gems. The 242,756-acre park is filled with all kinds of natural wonders, from its iconic, layered rock formations to the fossils of plants and animals that inhabited this place millions of years ago. Take a stroll on this fairytale boardwalk to see and learn about some of the fossils in the park.
Visitors to Badlands National Park can witness plenty of stunning scenery right from their cars, but to truly explore this beautiful place, it’s best to get out and see it up close on the eight hiking trails here.
santosh kamble/Google
The Fossil Exhibit Trail is one of several boardwalk trails at the park. It’s ADA-accessible, and perfect for visitors of all ages and abilities.
S.A.Shivram/Google You’ll find the trail in the southeastern part of the park, just a few miles from the Ben Reifel Visitor Center. There’s a parking lot for visitors right at the trail head.
Before you head down the trail, stop at the little shelter at the trailhead, where you’ll find an interactive exhibit that tells you about the history of this place and its fossils.
S.A.Shivram/Google
This trail looks like it stretches on forever, but in reality, it’s just a half mile long, out and back.
Joel H/Google Make sure that you have some sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water with you - it can get very hot out there during summer months, and there’s no shade.
The boardwalk is nice and level, and wide enough to accommodate a wheelchair or stroller easily.
Scott D/Tripadvisor If you hike it in the late afternoon or early morning, the sun casts light on the rock formations that’s simply magical.
All along the trail, you’ll find little displays that tell you about the fossils that have been found here, along with a cast-bronze display that you can touch.
S.A.Shivram/Google
The trail meanders through rock formations, over the rugged landscape.
S.A.Shivram/Google Make sure to stay on the boardwalk throughout your journey, both to protect the landscape and to avoid the rattlesnakes that are common here.
The Fossil Exhibit Trail is beautiful year-round and should take you only about 30-45 minutes to explore. Put it on your list of things to see the next time you’re at Badlands National Park.
Peter Stoeger/Google
Visit the Badlands National Park’s website for more information about all the park’s trails, and follow its Facebook page to see gorgeous photos of the park.
santosh kamble/Google
S.A.Shivram/Google
You’ll find the trail in the southeastern part of the park, just a few miles from the Ben Reifel Visitor Center. There’s a parking lot for visitors right at the trail head.
Joel H/Google
Make sure that you have some sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water with you - it can get very hot out there during summer months, and there’s no shade.
Scott D/Tripadvisor
If you hike it in the late afternoon or early morning, the sun casts light on the rock formations that’s simply magical.
Make sure to stay on the boardwalk throughout your journey, both to protect the landscape and to avoid the rattlesnakes that are common here.
Peter Stoeger/Google
Looking for another great trail to explore at Badlands National Park? Check out this beautiful boardwalk trail.
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