Badlands National Park: Striped Cliffs, Fossils, and Prairie Skies

Badlands National Park

How It All Began

Badlands became a national monument in 1939 and a national park in 1978. The name “badlands” comes from the Lakota words mako sica, meaning “land bad.” It was tough to travel, hard to farm, and full of sharp rock. But that rugged land is also what preserved one of the richest fossil beds in the world — including rhinos, ancient horses, and saber-toothed cats.

Today, the park protects 244,000 acres of sharply eroded buttes, mixed-grass prairie, and wildlife.

What to See and Do

Start with the Badlands Loop Road (Highway 240). It winds through the heart of the park and gives access to the best overlooks and trailheads. Sunrise and sunset are incredible — the rocks seem to change color every few minutes.

Don’t miss:

Notch Trail – short, steep, and includes a log ladder climb for views over the White River Valley

Fossil Exhibit Trail – an easy walk with fossil replicas and info signs

Yellow Mounds Overlook – bright bands of color in the hills

Sage Creek Wilderness Area – bison roam freely, and you’ll likely spot them near the road

Keep your eyes peeled for prairie dogs, bighorn sheep, coyotes, and even black-footed ferrets, one of the rarest mammals in North America.

Tips from the Plains

  • Bring water — the park is dry and hot, especially in summer.
  • Watch for snakes on trails, especially in tall grass or near rocks.
  • Sunset at Pinnacles Overlook is one of the best in the park.
  • Camp at Cedar Pass for night skies full of stars.
  • Avoid hiking in midday — early mornings or evenings are best.

Fun Facts

  • The park’s layered rocks go back 75 million years.
  • It’s home to mixed-grass prairie, a rare type of ecosystem.
  • Over 1 million visitors come each year.

  • It once was part of an inland sea, which is why so many marine fossils are found here.

Inspired by the Badlands

If you’ve wandered the ridges and watched the sky shift over the canyons, you’ll understand the draw of the Badlands. These pieces were made with that same spirit:

Badlands National Park Camo Otto Cap – earthy tones, rugged fit

Badlands National Park Richardson 112 – classic trucker style with a bold patch

Badlands National Park Yupoong 6606 – modern and clean for everyday wear

Plan Your Visit

Check the Badlands NPS page for weather updates, trail maps, and seasonal programs. Whether you're driving through or spending days off-grid, the Badlands will leave a mark — just like the wind has shaped the cliffs for millions of years.