How to See Five Cool Things at Badlands National Park

Badlands National Park in South Dakota contains one of the richest fossil beds in the world with fossilized horses, rhinoceroses and more dating back 28 to 37 million years. Amongst the breathtaking landscape, you will see nature at it's best, from wildflowers and cacti to endangered ferrets and swift fox. If you are planning a trip to the badlands, you'll have no problem finding five cool things to see.

Instructions

1. Begin just outside the park on Interstate 90, near exit 131 at the Prairie Dog Ranch. Buy yourself a bag of peanuts and feed the prairie dogs from the palm of your hand. While a quick stop, the interaction with wildlife is sure to make your list of cool things to see at the Badlands, particularly for the little ones.

2. See some of the most stunning rock formations in all of America with a fantastic view of the White River Valley as you hike 1 1/2 miles along Notch Trail. Make sure you wear a long pair of pants and good shoes, as among the cool things to see on this badlands hike are lots and lots of cacti.

3. Take a hike along Castle trail, which is the longest trail in the Badlands, but is cut into three sections if you aren't up to the full day's trek. Castle trail is the quietest trail in the park, and is sure to offer a peaceful walk through paradise as you gaze at the deep canyons, monstrous rock formations and even pass through the grasslands. Bring a hat, as you aren't likely to find much shelter from the sun.

4. Catch a big badlands sunset, one of many cool things you do not want to miss. Take the walk up to Big Badlands overlook just before the sun goes down and watch as the shadows form ghostly shapes in every direction, bathing you in the rosy-amber glow. A bit of peace and quiet to end your day, a sunset is one of the most spectacular things to see in the park.

5. Get a break from heavy hiking as you get a glimpse of the past. The Fossil Exhibit Trail is the easiest trail in the badlands park and is even accessible for wheelchairs. You will see many fossils and educational information, a sight you cannot not see while at Badlands National Park.