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Scenic drive across Badlands National Park
ADOBE STOCK
SOUTH DAKOTA
Revel in the Untamed Beauty of Badlands National Park
A mesmerizing blend of rugged landscapes, dramatic geology and ancient history.
By Stacey Zable
Discover the sci-fi-like world of 244,000-acre Badlands National Park. This striking landscape of canyons, buttes, rock pinnacles and spires is interpreted along the 39-mile Badlands Loop Scenic Byway. Stop along the way at all, or your choice, of 12 designated scenic overlooks. The first view from the east is the Big Badlands Overlook. Time your stop here with sunrise for an even more spectacular sight. Another must-visit is Pinnacles Overlook, the highest-elevation overlook. The Ben Reifel Visitor Center is also on this route. Inside, it provides information, maps, exhibits, a film about the park and the Fossil Preparation Lab. This working paleontology lab, open June through September, shows a selection of the approximately 75 different fossil species found in the park.
A family poses for a photo while visiting Badlands National Park.
TRAVEL SOUTH DAKOTA/CHAD COPPESS
If you want to explore out of the car, the three-quarter-mile Door Trail and the quarter-mile Window Trail are two easy choices among the park’s hiking trails, and they offer wonderful views. Whether driving or hiking, keep your eyes trained on the landscape to spot the Badlands’ native wildlife: antelope, bighorn sheep, bison, deer and plenty of birds.
Burrowing owls are frequently seen in Badlands National Park.
TRAVEL SOUTH DAKOTA
Badlands National Park
If you are planning a trip to Badlands National Park visit AAA.com/Travel for reservations.
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