How to Drive Badlands National Park

By eHow Travel Editor

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The Badlands are a colorful and geologically rich part of the National Parks system. They are located close to Interstate 90 in South Dakota. The park offers travelers a scenic drive that is nothing like the view from the highway. Hop off and enjoy this eroding piece of the Wild West.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Step1

Travelers going west on I-90 need to leave the highway at Exit 131 and head south on Highway 240. Drive about four miles and you'll find the northeast entrance of Badlands National Park. Travelers going east should get off at Exit 110. Head south on Highway 240 for nine miles to the Pinnacles Entrance.

Step2

Follow Badlands Loop Road through the park. The road is approximately 26 miles of winding, paved highway through the eroded rock formations. The layers of vibrant pink and green sediment have morphed into odd shapes over thousands of years.

Step3

Dare the unpaved roads and visit Roberts Prairie Dog Town. The area is about five miles along Sage Creek Road. The road is marked where it intersects with Badlands Loop Road near the Pinnacles Entrance. Sage Creek Road does not wind through the rock formations like the main road, but it does offer free camping.

Step4

Stop at turnouts or go for a walk as time allows. Bring plenty of water and be careful as you navigate the rugged terrain. Notify the visitor's center if you plan on exploring beyond the designated trails.

Step5

Exit the park at the opposite end of Badlands Loop Road and follow Highway 240 back to I-90. You are now close to several other areas of interest including the town of Deadwood and Mount Rushmore.

Tips & Warnings

Call the park headquarters at (605) 433-5361 to inquire about road conditions. Badlands Loop Road does not close seasonally. However, heavy rains can effect unimproved areas.
Drive the park at sunrise or sunset to get the full effect of the colorful terrain.
The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally takes place nearby every August. During this time the park is flooded with motorcycles which adds to the atmosphere.