Are you looking to explore the trails in Theodore Roosevelt National Park? With more than 90 miles of hiking trails across the park’s North Unit and South Unit, there is a trail for nearly every skill level. From short scenic walks to challenging backcountry adventures, hiking is one of the best ways to experience the colorful badlands, wildlife, and unique landscapes of this North Dakota hidden gem.
If you are planning a longer adventure, our Ultimate South Dakota and North Dakota Road Trip: 15 Unforgettable Stops includes Theodore Roosevelt National Park as one of the highlights. For everything you need to know before your visit, check out our Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota: Visitor Guide & Hidden Gem.
After spending a week exploring the park, these are the hiking trails we recommend most. Whether you’re looking for an easy scenic walk, a challenging butte climb, or the chance to spot wildlife, these trails showcase some of the park’s most spectacular scenery.
The park’s rugged badlands are a striking mix of tan and gray layered buttes, deep canyon ravines, rolling prairie grasslands, and pockets of dense green trees clinging to the hillsides. As you hike, you’ll wander through sagebrush terraces, pass bustling prairie dog towns, climb to panoramic overlooks, and experience one of North Dakota’s most beautiful landscapes from every angle.
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Table of Contents
Getting To Theodore Roosevelt National Park
If you’re planning on hiking in Theodore Roosevelt National Park, it’s easy to add the park to a larger western road trip. We combined our visit with Badlands National Park, Custer State Park, Mount Rushmore National Memorial, and other Black Hills attractions in South Dakota. Theodore Roosevelt National Park also pairs well with Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks, each about a day’s drive away.
North Unit Access
We reached the North Unit by starting at the junction of I-94 and ND-22 in Dickinson, North Dakota. From there, travel west on I-94 for approximately 19 miles to US-85 near Belfield. Turn right onto US-85 and continue north for about 51 miles to the North Unit entrance. If you’re coming from Watford City, the North Unit entrance is about 15 miles south of town.
South Unit Access
The South Unit is the park’s most visited area and is easily reached from Interstate 94 near Medora, North Dakota.. It’s about 133 miles west of Bismarck and 27 miles east of the Montana state line. Use exits 24 or 27 for Medora, or exit 32 to reach the Painted Canyon Visitor Center, located about 7 miles east of Medora.
Visitor Centers
Before hitting the trails, stop by a visitor center to pick up maps, check trail conditions, and get the latest information from park rangers. The North Unit Visitor Center and South Unit Visitor Center are the most useful stops for hikers planning their routes.
Hiking the Painted Canyon Nature Trail
The Painted Canyon Nature Trail offers one of the most spectacular introductions to the badlands landscape of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Located just off I-94 at the Painted Canyon Visitor Center, this overlook is one of the park’s most photographed viewpoints and a fantastic place to watch the sunrise.
The view from the overlook is unforgettable. Colorful badlands formations stretch across the landscape, with rugged hills, winding valleys, and pockets of lush green vegetation creating one of the most dramatic scenes in the park. Before starting your hike, take time to enjoy the overlook and soak in the unique landscape that makes this area so special.
Painted Canyon Nature Trail Details
The Painted Canyon Nature Trail is a 1.1-mile moderate loop that descends from the overlook into the valley below. The trailhead is located to the right of the Painted Canyon Visitor Center near the picnic shelter.
The descent into the canyon is steep in sections, and some areas can become slippery depending on conditions. Keep in mind that the return trip requires climbing back up the same elevation you lost on the way down.
During our hike, we spotted plenty of wildlife, including bison, pronghorn, deer, rabbits, and a lone coyote. The trail was also filled with bird activity and colorful wildflowers during the early spring, including pea flowers, gumbo lilies, nodding chickweed, hookspur violet, wild penstemon, and milk vetch.
Without stopping for photos, the loop takes about 45 minutes to complete. If you are looking for a longer adventure, the trail connects with additional routes that can extend your hike to approximately 4.2 miles round trip.
Trail Guide to Theodore Roosevelt National Park South Unit
The South Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park offers some of the best hiking opportunities in the park, with trails ranging from short scenic walks to longer backcountry adventures. Whether you are looking for an easy overlook, a wildlife-viewing trail, or a challenging hike through the badlands, there are options for nearly every fitness level.
The landscape changes constantly as you explore the South Unit, with colorful badlands formations, open prairie grasslands, wooded valleys, and dramatic overlooks along the way. Many hiking trails are conveniently located just off the scenic loop drive, making them easy to access with nearby parking areas.
Best Hikes Along the Theodore Roosevelt National Park South Unit Scenic Loop Drive
The South Unit Scenic Loop Drive is one of the best ways to experience Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Many of the park’s best hiking trails are located directly along the 36-mile loop, making it easy to combine scenic overlooks with short hikes throughout the day.
A portion of the scenic drive may occasionally close due to road conditions, weather, or maintenance. Check current conditions before your visit. When the entire loop is open, reaching the final viewpoints can take several hours when you include stops for overlooks, wildlife viewing, and hiking.
Bison jams are also common along the scenic drive. These massive animals often cross or gather near the road, and patience is essential. Give them plenty of space and enjoy the opportunity to watch one of the park’s most iconic residents.
One of the best ways to experience Theodore Roosevelt National Park is to stop at the overlooks and explore the trails along the way. Some hikes are only a few minutes long, while others allow you to venture deeper into the badlands.
Skyline Vista Trail
Distance: 0.3 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Best for: Prairie dog viewing and a quick scenic stop
The first overlook on the scenic road lies just past the visitor’s center. The Skyline Vista Trail is a short 0.3 mile walk on a level dirt path. Close to the prairie dog metropolis. Remember to bring binoculars to get a better view. The labyrinth of prairie dog mounds reminded me of a whack a mole game. I could hear everywhere the warning chirps and squeaks.
Peaceful Valley Ranch: Wildlife and Historic Trails
The ranch is one of the most unique stops along the South Unit Scenic Loop Drive, combining Theodore Roosevelt National Park history with some of the best opportunities to see the park’s famous feral horses.
A short dirt road leads to the historic ranch area, where a few remaining buildings and the original ranch house still stand. The ranch once served as the park’s headquarters when Theodore Roosevelt National Park was established in 1947. Later, the area became a popular horseback riding concession that operated from 1918 to 2014. Today, visitors can explore the historic site, walk toward the Little Missouri River, and often spot the free-roaming horses that call this area home.
Watching the Feral Horses at Peaceful Valley Ranch
We arrived in the mid-morning and were excited to find the feral horses grazing in the meadow and wooded areas along the Little Missouri River. Following the pathway toward the shoreline, we found most of the herd near the tree line, while a few horses wandered into the open paddock to feed on fresh grasses and wildflowers.
With the fence between us and the horses, we were able to capture some great photographs while maintaining a safe distance. The two social groups we observed that day included one young foal among them, making the encounter even more memorable.
Approximately 170 horses roam the 47,000 acres of the South Unit. Originally left behind by ranchers, the horses avoided early roundups in 1959. Although efforts were made to remove the herd in the early 1970s, the horses’ historical significance was recognized, and park officials chose to manage the population rather than eliminate it.
Trailheads at Peaceful Valley Ranch
Peaceful Valley Ranch also serves as a starting point for several longer hikes in the South Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. From here, hikers can access a variety of trails ranging from moderate walks to longer backcountry routes.
Trail options from the Peaceful Valley Ranch area include:
- Ekblom Trail: A scenic route that explores the badlands landscape near the Little Missouri River.
- Big Plateau Trail: 5.4 miles through the rugged terrain of the South Unit.
- Lone Tree Loop Trail: 9.2 miles for hikers looking for a longer adventure.
- CCC Trail: Connects with the Jones Creek Trail and Lower Paddock Creek Trail, allowing hikers to extend their route.
The CCC Trail gets its name from the Civilian Conservation Corps camp that occupied the Jones Creek area from 1939 to 1941. Although the camp was later dismantled, hikers may still notice occasional foundation stones and reminders of the workers who helped develop the park.
Amazing Views on the Wind Canyon Trail
Distance: 0.4-mile loop
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Best for: Sunset views and Little Missouri River overlooks
An easy trail along the wind-sculpted canyon overlooking the Little Missouri River, this 0.4-mile loop offers panoramic views of the river. The hike from the parking lot is short and moderate. We climbed to the top of the ridge, taking in the river’s sandy eroded cliffs. From the observation platform, we could see the prairie dog town below an excellent perspective on the grasslands of North Dakota. Despite a slightly cloudy day, the 360-degree views were spectacular.
An eagle flew directly over our heads. In the distance, we watched it land on a deadfall before making its way downstream. It would have been great if we could have taken a picture. Sadly, it happened so quickly. I considered this one of the prime spots to watch the sunset. Turning around, the loop trail descends back to the parking lot. If you’re visiting the South Unit, stop here to see the Little Missouri.
Boicourt Overlook Trail
Distance: 0.2 miles
Difficulty: Easy, accessible
Best for: Sunset and panoramic badlands views
This paved 0.2 mile paved trail is one of our favorite for sunsets. The accessible trail is level and flat. A dirt path continues if you want to get better views. With the rainy overcast day, we could smell the coal seam fire started in 2018, burning a few miles distant. Benches near the end of the paved path make this a great place to reflect. From this vantage point, the views of the badlands seem endless. The interpretive sign states that the badlands are 100-miles long and average 15-miles wide. You can see for miles, including Sentinel Butte, Camels Hump Butte, and West & East Buttes, all approximately 20 miles distant.
Coal Vein Trail Loop
Distance: 0.8-mile loop
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Time: 30–45 minutes
Best For: Geology, wildflowers, and a unique badlands landscape
This is a great hike for all ages. Nothing too strenuous. There is an inner loop (0.6-miles) and an outer loop (0.8-miles). We picked up a free self-guided Nature Guide at the trailhead (please remember to return it afterwards). The trek wanders through a landscape where a coal vein caught on fire in 1951and continued burning for 26 years. The parking lot was full when we arrived. However, the rain kept most people off the trail. The downpour did not deter us from hiking the loop.
What do the Colored Layers Mean?
The scenery is interesting looking at the different layer colors. Each layer signifies a particular rock type. Clinker is the bright red rock that comes after the coal burns and hardens. We could see the bluish-grey layers of bentonite clay made of volcanic ash. Those dense black layers are coal that has been compacted and hardened from ancient plant remains. You can also see the lighter tan/brown layer of sandstone washed down from the distant Rocky Mountains.
The trail passes through a gigantic artifact of clinker just after the wooden bridge. Most coal vein fires are started by lightning. Currently, one of these coal fires is within feet of the scenic drive, just east of the parking area for Upper Jones Creek Trail. Recently, park staff determined that this fire had the potential to burn under and damage the road and took preventative action. These fires are incredibly difficult to extinguish and may burn for many years.
Climb the 2nd Highest Point Buck Hill
Buck Hill Trail
Distance: 0.4 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate (steep climb)
Best for: 360-degree views
A short 1.0-mile dirt trek offshoot from the paved scenic drive leads to a roundabout parking area. This is where the trail starts. A steep grade this 0.4-mile out-and-back trail leads to breathtaking 360-degree view of the painted canyon and the dramatic badlands landscapes beyond. It is the second highest point in the park, climbing this 2,855-foot tall hill. A popular spot. This is the only place we really came upon many people. On a clear day, the badlands colors are simply amazing. The trail continues across a level top. A grouping of boulders is a great place to sit and admire the view. Just watch for rattlesnakes. The valley below was incredibly green from the spring rains. With binoculars, you may spot pronghorn, bison, or coyotes on the valley floor. You can start the Painted Canyon Trail here.
Stretch Your Legs Hiking the Lower Paddock Creek Trail
Distance: 4.5 miles one way (lower section) / 11.4 miles round trip when combined with the Upper Paddock Creek Trail
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Trail Type: Out and back
Best For: Solitude, wildlife viewing, and exploring deeper into the badlands
Trailhead: South Unit Scenic Loop Drive
The Lower Paddock Creek Trail is part of a longer 11.4-mile out-and-back route when combined with the Upper Paddock Creek Trail. The scenic loop road divides the two sections, with the lower portion stretching approximately 4.5 miles and the upper section adding another 6.8 miles.
The trail follows a narrow dirt path through the badlands and can be difficult to follow in some areas. During our visit, we completed about the first two miles of the Lower Paddock Creek Trail before turning back because of high water levels in the creek. The park had received heavy rainfall earlier in the spring, leaving the trail muddy and slippery, with several log bridges difficult or impossible to cross.
Trail conditions can vary greatly depending on recent weather. After heavy rain, hikers should be prepared for wet, muddy sections and possible creek crossings.
Badlands Spur Trail Along Paddock Creek
Distance: 1.7 miles
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Trail Type: Out and back
Best For: Wildlife viewing and extending your South Unit hike
The Badlands Spur Trail is a short out-and-back trail that provides another way to explore the Paddock Creek area. The trailhead is located on the right after turning off the Coal Vein Trail in the South Unit.
Since we could not complete the Lower Paddock Creek Trail due to the high water conditions, we added the Badlands Spur Trail to our hike. The trail eventually reaches the Lower Talkington Trail junction, where hikers can extend their adventure.
For those looking for a longer route, the Badlands Spur Trail can be combined with the Upper Paddock Trail and Talkington Trail to create a larger loop. I would love to return during the summer months when creek levels are lower and explore more of this area.
Wildlife is common along these trails, and we encountered plenty of bison during our hike. As always, we gave them plenty of space and observed them from a safe distance.
Historic Old East Entrance Trail
Distance: 0.9 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Trail Type: Out and back
Best For: Prairie dog viewing, history, and a relaxing walk through the grasslands
The Historic Old East Entrance Trail is an easy, mostly flat hike that leads to the original entrance station of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. The trail winds through a large prairie dog town, making it a fun stop for wildlife viewing along the South Unit Scenic Loop.
During our walk, we heard plenty of prairie dog yips and squeaks as these curious little animals popped in and out of their burrows. Many seemed unfazed by our presence, making this a great location for photography. We even spotted young prairie dogs emerging from their dens.
The trail also showed plenty of signs of the wildlife that call the park home. We had to navigate around quite a few bison patties along the way, although fortunately, we did not encounter any bison on the trail during our visit.
One interesting piece of history we learned is that early pioneers traveling across the prairie sometimes collected dried bison patties to use as fuel for fires. With few trees available on the open plains, these dried grasses and manure provided an important source of fuel for wagon trains.
What Are the Best Long Hikes in Theodore Roosevelt National Park South Unit?
While many of the South Unit trails are short walks from scenic overlooks, hikers looking for a bigger adventure will find several longer routes that explore deeper into the badlands. These hikes offer more solitude, dramatic landscapes, and opportunities to experience areas many visitors never see.
Don’t Miss the Petrified Forest Loop
Distance: 10.2-mile loop
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Trail Type: Loop
Best For: Fossilized trees, solitude, and exploring remote badlands terrain
The Petrified Forest Loop is one of the most rewarding longer hikes in Theodore Roosevelt National Park. We started early, taking the West River Road Exit 23 off I-94 to the well-maintained dirt road (Forest Road 730) that leads to the trailhead. The drive takes about 30 minutes, but signs make the route easy to follow.
When we arrived, the parking lot was empty, and we had the trail almost completely to ourselves. Be sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and sun protection because there is little to no shade along the route.
After about 0.6 miles, the trail reaches a fork where we chose the left path. About three-quarters of a mile later, the landscape suddenly transforms into something that feels like stepping back in time. Scattered throughout the area are impressive petrified tree stumps, with some of the larger specimens reaching around six feet tall.
Exploring the Petrified Forest
It is incredible to see these massive petrified tree stumps scattered throughout the badlands. Remember, it is illegal to remove fossils, rocks, petrified wood, or any other natural resources from a national park. Leave everything where you find it and practice Leave No Trace principles.
Millions of years ago, this landscape looked very different. Much of present-day North Dakota was once covered by a vast inland swamp, a strange environment compared to the dry badlands we see today. In many ways, these ancient wetlands were a completely different world, similar to how the Everglades today showcase a unique wetland ecosystem unlike the surrounding landscapes. The trees and vegetation that once grew here eventually became preserved as petrified wood. The transformation from swamp to badlands is a fascinating reminder of how dramatically landscapes can change over time.
Trail Conditions and Our Experience
Because rain was moving in during our visit, we only completed a few miles of the trail before returning to the parking area. This is a hike where weather conditions and preparation can make a big difference. With little shade and a remote location, hikers should plan ahead and be prepared before starting this longer South Unit adventure.
Alternative Route to Petrified Forest Loop
During the summer months, hikers can also access the Petrified Forest area from Peaceful Valley Ranch. This route follows the Ekblom Trail and Big Plateau Trail, including a crossing of the Little Missouri River.
The first several miles travel through flat grasslands before reaching the river crossing. Unfortunately, during our June visit, recent rain caused the river levels and current to be too high for a safe crossing.
Up for an Even Longer Adventure? Hike the Maah Daah Hey Trail
For experienced hikers looking for a true backcountry adventure, the Maah Daah Hey Trail is one of North Dakota’s premier long-distance trails.
The 144-mile trail connects the three units of Theodore Roosevelt National Park with the surrounding Little Missouri National Grassland. It stretches from the USFS Burning Coal Vein Campground south of Medora to the USFS CCC Campground south of Watford City.
The trail’s turtle symbol represents determination, patience, longevity, and endurance, as well as its connection to Lakota traditions. The name Maah Daah Hey, from the Mandan and Hidatsa languages, means “grandfather” or “an area that has been or will be around for a long time.”
Sections of the trail within the park can be remote and are not always maintained like shorter day hikes. In our opinion, the cooler shoulder seasons are the best time to tackle longer sections. Water planning is essential, and hikers should cache water and prepare carefully before attempting extended portions of the route.
We only hiked a short section of the Maah Daah Hey Trail, and even that was challenging after heavy rains the previous day. The views, however, were absolutely worth the effort.
Trail Guide to Theodore Roosevelt National Park: North Unit
A visit to North Dakota would not be complete without exploring the North Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. The Little Missouri River played an important role in shaping the park’s dramatic badlands landscape. Over millions of years, erosion carved through layers of clay-rich sedimentary rock, creating the colorful buttes, valleys, and formations that make this area unique.
Fun for the Kids – Little Mo Nature Trail
Distance: 1.1-mile loop
Difficulty: Easy
Trail Type: Loop
Best For: Families, wildlife viewing, wildflowers, and learning about the park’s ecosystem
The Little Mo Nature Trail is a relatively short 1.1-mile loop trail. We accessed the wide paved path from Juniper Campground, with the latter portion transitioning to hard-packed gravel. At the trailhead, we picked up a trail brochure that guided us through each numbered stop along the route. The 19 well-marked posts highlight the flora and fauna of the area.
The trail travels through the Little Missouri River bottomland, where large cottonwood and juniper trees dominate the landscape. Closer to the river, we spotted the longhorn cattle herd grazing along the shoreline.
Just past the bridge over the creek, I was suddenly startled by a snake — I think I jumped a few feet in the air! We continued to the end of the trail, making our way down to the Little Missouri River. Since we visited in early spring, the river was running high and filled with silt. Wildflowers lined the eroded riverbanks, creating a beautiful contrast against the rugged badlands landscape.
PRO Tip: The prairie rattlesnake is the only venomous snake found in Theodore Roosevelt National Park. While encounters are uncommon, they are part of the park’s natural ecosystem. Stay on designated trails, watch where you step, and always give any snake plenty of space
Walking Among the CannonBall Concretions
Distance: Short walk
Difficulty: Easy
Best For: Geology and photography
This unique pullout is located along the Theodore Roosevelt National Park North Unit’s 14-mile scenic drive, across from the spur road to the campground and picnic area, approximately 4.5 miles from the visitor center. Due to current road construction, it is easy to miss, but it is one of the most unusual geological features in the North Unit.
The cannonball concretions formed millions of years ago when this area was an ancient riverbed. As sediment settled in the water, minerals gradually cemented the surrounding grains together, creating these unusual spherical formations. Over time, erosion of the surrounding rock layers exposed the cannonballs we see today.
Along this short trail, we discovered concretions in many different sizes and stages of exposure. Some were partially buried in the hillside, while others stood fully revealed among the eroded badlands formations, creating a fascinating glimpse into the geological history of Theodore Roosevelt National Park.
Best Long Hikes in Theodore Roosevelt National Park North Unit
A Full Day Hike Explore the Buckhorn Loop
Distance: 11.4-mile loop
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Best For: Solitude, prairie dogs, wildlife, and remote badlands scenery
The northern section of the Buckhorn Trail passes through two large prairie dog towns. In early June, the activity was incredible as young pups emerged from their burrows. We spent several minutes watching these curious little animals interact with each other.
We have encountered prairie dog towns on other hikes, including Badlands National Park in South Dakota and Devils Tower National Monument, but the colonies in Theodore Roosevelt National Park were just as fascinating. They are adorable and hard to resist watching.
Interesting Fact: Prairie dogs play an important role in maintaining a healthy and balanced prairie ecosystem in Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Their burrowing helps aerate the soil, and their colonies provide habitat for other wildlife species.
Our Favorite Must-Do Hike is the Caprock-Coulee Nature Trail
Distance: 4.4-mile loop
Difficulty: Moderate
Best For: Hoodoos, wildlife, geology, and river views
This was by far our favorite trail. We did not encounter another soul during our 3-hour hike. The first 0.8 miles is the nature trail with markers for each stop (we started the trail counterclockwise). I download the brochure to my phone, but you can also pick up a paper copy (NPS map) at the visitor’s center at the park entrance. Caprock “Hoodoos” dominates the trail, hence its name. A hoodoo formation is made up of soft muds and silts held together by a relatively resistant caprock top. The formation is a testimony to how a landscape has changed through processes of weathering and erosion.
Definitely the highlight of our trip was the wildlife along the trail. A wide variety of animals make their home in Theodore Roosevelt National Park. We saw plenty of rabbits, bighorn sheep, bison and a large spade toad. Moving through the coulee, the geological formations, petrified wood and colorful bentonite layers are fascinating. Bring plenty of water in a refillable bottle and a snack for a break at the River Bend Overlook. We spent 30-minutes watching two bighorn sheep resting on a ledge here. From the overlook, the loop trail follows the ridgeline above the river before returning to the parking lot. The views of the Little Missouri are breathtaking from the trail. At the end, it caked our boots with muck, yet it was so worth the struggle to see this diverse landscape.
Oxbow Overlook/Sperati Overlook Trail
Distance: 2.4 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Best For: River views and panoramic scenery
The trail begins at the Oxbow Overlook parking lot. It is relatively flat, cutting across gentle rolling prairie and sagebrush flats. With that said, there is little to no shade on this trail. Luckily for us, today is overcast. Views from the point are spectacular of the Little Missouri River, with mesas, buttes, and tablelands in the background. We did not encounter any bison on the trail, just lots of bison patties.
Most Challenging North Unit Hike
Achenbach Trail
Distance: 18.2-mile loop
Difficulty: Strenuous
Best For: Experienced backpackers and backcountry adventure
This loop trail requires that you stop at the visitor center to get your backcountry permit if you plan to do both the North & South sections with an overnight camping stay. I always printout a paper copy of the map when we hike, rather than rely on just the AllTrails, GaiaGPS, or Maps app. Many trail reviews noted that the trail markers do not line up with the apps. We wore long pants embedded with Permethrin and followed up with bug spray on our boots to avoid the ticks in the long sage grasses.
As you walk through the park, sagebrush surrounds you in every direction. These hardy plants are uniquely adapted to survive in the dry badlands environment and are an essential part of the prairie ecosystem.
Explore the Trails of TRNP: The North Achenbach Trail
We only had time to complete a brief section of the North Achenbach Trail (4.4 miles). If you complete the entire loop, there are two river crossings, and during our early June visit, the river was too high to safely ford. Our short hike began at Oxbow Overlook, heading toward Juniper Springs Campground. The only reliable water source along this route is at the campground, as the natural springs can be unreliable.
Never underestimate how much water you will need in the North Dakota Badlands. We went through almost all the water we carried on a cloudy, cool afternoon, making it easy to imagine how much more we would have needed on a hot, sunny day.
The ruggedness of this trail is what makes it so inviting. We encountered cacti scattered across the ridgelines and wildflowers throughout the tableland areas. I would love to return on a future visit to complete the entire loop and spend an overnight camping near Sperati Point.
Tips for Hiking in Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Hiking in the North Dakota Badlands requires preparation. Conditions can change quickly, and many trails offer little shade, limited water sources, and rugged terrain.
- Bring plenty of water: Heat exhaustion and dehydration are common hazards in the badlands. For longer hikes, carry more water than you think you will need.
- Wear proper footwear. Many trails cross uneven terrain, steep grades, and clay soils that can become extremely slippery after rain. A good pair of hiking boots or trail shoes with traction will make your hike safer and more comfortable.
- Consider trekking poles. Poles are especially helpful on steep sections, muddy trails, and longer hikes where extra stability can reduce fatigue.
- Protect yourself from the sun. Many trails offer little to no shade. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, bug spray, and a wide-brimmed hat or lightweight sun-protective clothing.
- Carry a daypack with essentials. Pack water, snacks, a first-aid kit, extra layers, and any other items you may need for changing conditions.
- Bring binoculars for wildlife viewing. Bison, pronghorn, wild horses, bighorn sheep, and prairie dogs are common sights throughout the park. Always observe wildlife from a safe distance.
- Carry a map and plan ahead. Cell service may not always be available, especially on longer backcountry trails. Download maps before your hike and consider carrying a printed copy.
- Tell someone your plans. Always let someone know your route and expected return time before heading into the backcountry.
- Be prepared for changing weather. Conditions in the North Dakota Badlands can change quickly, so check the forecast and dress in layers. Have a first-aid kit handy.
- Respect wildlife. Give all animals plenty of space. Bison may appear calm but can move quickly, and prairie rattlesnakes are part of the park’s natural ecosystem.
Final Thoughts on the Best Hiking in Theodore Roosevelt National Park
What a hidden gem. We found so many peaceful, unforgettable moments while exploring the trails of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Despite its remote location, this park is absolutely worth the journey.
We originally added Theodore Roosevelt National Park to our itinerary while visiting the Black Hills of South Dakota, never realizing how much this landscape would impact us. From the colorful badlands and unique geological formations to the abundant wildlife and quiet trails, this park quickly became one of the highlights of our trip.
If you are planning a North Dakota adventure, make time to explore the trails of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. You may be surprised by how much this underrated national park has to offer. For more ideas on planning an unforgettable multi-state adventure, check out our Uncovering The Best Midwest National Park Treasures.
What’s your favorite hike in the park? What is your best-loved geological feature of the park? Share an experience you had while visiting the park in the comments section!
Wanda Page
Our favorite hike was the cannonball concretions. Our kids loved the large boulders, scrambling around the hills. We stayed across the road at the Juniper Campground. Thanks for the reminder of how great this park is.
Travel the Parks
Thank you! So glad you enjoyed reading our blog. We too loved the cannonball concretions!