Badlands, North Dakota Travel Guide
Discover the rugged beauty and rich history of the Badlands in North Dakota, where breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife await.
The Badlands of North Dakota offer a stunning and unique landscape that captivates the imagination. The area is known for its rugged terrain, multicolored rock formations, and rich fossil beds. Visitors can explore the Theodore Roosevelt National Park, where the Badlands' natural beauty is preserved and celebrated. The park is home to bison, wild horses, and prairie dogs, offering a glimpse into the diverse wildlife of the region. Hiking trails of varying difficulty levels allow tourists to experience the Badlands up close. Popular trails include the Painted Canyon Nature Trail and the Buckhorn Trail. Each trail provides breathtaking views of the layered rock formations and the vast, open skies. In addition to hiking, the Badlands are perfect for scenic drives, with the 36-mile loop through the South Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park being a must-see. The area is also steeped in history. The Badlands were a favorite retreat of President Theodore Roosevelt, who found solace and inspiration in the rugged landscape. Visitors can learn more about his life and legacy at the park's visitor centers. For those interested in paleontology, the Badlands' fossil beds are a treasure trove of ancient discoveries, with guided tours and exhibits available to the public.
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Badlands.
- Visit the Theodore Roosevelt National Park visitor centers for maps and information on hiking trails.
- Bring plenty of water and sun protection, as the Badlands can get very hot in the summer.
- Consider visiting in the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
- Check the park’s schedule for ranger-led programs and guided tours for a deeper understanding of the area.
- Wildlife can be unpredictable; maintain a safe distance from bison and other animals.
Explore Badlands: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More
Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more
Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Badlands
Top-rated picks
Best Attractions
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Badlands National Park
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Badlands National Park in South Dakota, where stunning landscapes meet diverse wildlife and endless outdoor adventures.
Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Explore Theodore Roosevelt National Park, where the rugged beauty of North Dakota meets rich wildlife and cultural history in an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Dignity of Earth and Sky
Explore the Dignity of Earth and Sky, a breathtaking cultural landmark celebrating Native American heritage in Chamberlain, South Dakota.
Reptile Gardens
Discover a captivating world of reptiles and exotic plants at Reptile Gardens in Rapid City, South Dakota, a family-friendly attraction for all ages.
Best landmarks in Badlands
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Best Landmarks
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Badlands National Park
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and unique geological wonders of Badlands National Park, a must-visit destination in South Dakota for nature lovers.
Custer State Park
Discover the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Custer State Park in South Dakota, where stunning landscapes and wildlife await every traveler.
Black Hills National Forest
Discover the breathtaking landscapes, rich wildlife, and outdoor adventures waiting for you at Black Hills National Forest in South Dakota.
Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife of Theodore Roosevelt National Park, a true gem of North Dakota’s natural beauty.
Best restaurants in Badlands
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Alpine Inn
Discover comfort and charm at Alpine Inn in Hill City – your gateway to exploring South Dakota's stunning Black Hills.
Blue Moose Bar & Grill
Experience vibrant dining at Blue Moose Bar & Grill in East Grand Forks—famous for its unique burgers and lively atmosphere.
Full Throttle Saloon
Experience the thrill of biking culture at Full Throttle Saloon in South Dakota – great food, live music & unforgettable memories await!
Buglin' Bull Restaurant and Sports Bar
Experience authentic American dining with family-friendly vibes at Buglin' Bull Restaurant and Sports Bar in Custer, SD.
Best bars in Badlands
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Full Throttle Saloon
Experience the ultimate motorcycle culture at Full Throttle Saloon in South Dakota, a vibrant bar and grill with live music and camping!
Badlands Saloon & Grille
Discover the heart of Wall, South Dakota, at Badlands Saloon & Grille, where delicious grilled favorites meet a lively atmosphere.
Badlands Restaurant and Bar
Discover the vibrant culinary scene at Badlands Restaurant and Bar in Minot, ND, where delicious food meets warm hospitality.
Little Missouri Saloon & Dining Room
Experience the charm of the Old West at Little Missouri Saloon & Dining Room in Medora, North Dakota, offering hearty meals and a cozy ambiance.
Best nightclubs in Badlands
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Full Throttle Saloon
Discover the vibrant energy of Full Throttle Saloon, the ultimate biker bar in South Dakota, offering live music, great food, and unforgettable camping experiences.
Badlands Saloon & Grille
Experience the true taste of South Dakota at Badlands Saloon & Grille, where hearty meals and a vibrant atmosphere await visitors.
Dempsey's Public House
Discover the lively atmosphere of Dempsey's Public House, a premier Irish pub in Fargo, offering delicious food, live music, and unforgettable nights out.
The Windbreak
Experience the pulse of Fargo at The Windbreak, a lively bar featuring local live music, craft drinks, and an inviting atmosphere perfect for tourists.
Best shops in Badlands
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West Acres Mall
Experience the best shopping, dining, and entertainment at West Acres Mall in Fargo, your ultimate retail destination.
Wall Drug Store
Experience a slice of American history at Wall Drug Store, a quirky, must-visit tourist attraction in South Dakota offering shopping, dining, and art.
Kirkwood Mall
Discover Kirkwood Mall, Bismarck's top shopping spot with unique stores, delicious dining, and a family-friendly atmosphere ideal for tourists.
Columbia Mall
Explore Columbia Mall in Grand Forks for an unforgettable shopping and dining experience with something for everyone.
Explore Badlands on the Map
A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Badlands, mapped for you.
Badlands Essentials
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The Badlands in North Dakota are accessible by various means of transportation. The nearest major airport is Bismarck Municipal Airport (BIS), which is approximately 120 miles east of the Badlands. From Bismarck, you can rent a car and drive west on Interstate 94. The journey takes about two hours by car. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Bismarck to Medora, the gateway to the Badlands, although car rental is recommended for greater flexibility in exploring the area.
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The best way to explore the Badlands is by car, as public transportation options are limited. Car rentals are available at Bismarck Municipal Airport and in nearby cities. Once in Medora, you can drive along the Scenic Loop Drive in Theodore Roosevelt National Park to take in the stunning landscapes. For those who prefer not to drive, guided tours are available that include transportation. Biking is also a popular way to explore some parts of the park.
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The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops in Medora and the surrounding areas. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and rural areas where card payment may not be an option. ATMs are available in Medora for cash withdrawals.
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The Badlands and Medora are generally safe for tourists. However, it is advisable to take standard safety precautions. Avoid hiking alone, especially in remote areas, and always stay on marked trails. Be aware of wildlife and maintain a safe distance. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but always keep an eye on your belongings and avoid leaving valuables in plain sight in your vehicle.
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In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Emergency services, including police, fire, and medical aid, are available in Medora. Theodore Roosevelt National Park has ranger stations where you can report emergencies and seek assistance. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there is a clinic in Medora and pharmacies in nearby towns.
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Fashion: Do wear comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing, especially sturdy shoes for hiking. Avoid wearing open-toed shoes or sandals. Religion: The area is not particularly religious, but do respect any local customs you encounter. Public Transport: Public transportation is limited, so be prepared to drive or join guided tours. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine and barbecue. Don't litter; always dispose of trash properly to keep the park clean.
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To experience the Badlands like a local, visit during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) to avoid crowds and enjoy milder weather. Attend the Medora Musical, a popular local event featuring Western-themed entertainment. Explore the Maah Daah Hey Trail, a favorite among local hikers and bikers, for a more immersive experience. Engage with park rangers and locals to learn more about the area's history and best spots for wildlife viewing.
When is the best time to visit Badlands?
Useful Local Phrases for Badlands
You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.
— Eve
Here are the phrases I use most often in Badlands. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️
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- HelloHowdy
[How-dee] - GoodbyeSee ya later
[See ya lay-ter] - YesYep
[Yep] - NoNope
[Nope] - Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
[Please/No prob-lem] - Thank youThanks a lot
[Thanks a lot] - Excuse me/SorryPardon me/Sorry
[Par-don me/Sor-ree] - How are you?How's it going?
[How's it go-ing?] - Fine. And you?Good. And you?
[Good. And you?] - Do you speak English?You speakin' English?
[You speak-in' English?] - I don't understandI ain't gettin' it
[I ain't get-tin' it]
- HelloHowdy
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- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu, please?
[Can I see the men-u, please?] - I don't eat meatI don't do meat
[I don't do meat] - Cheers!Cheers!
[Cheers!] - I would like to pay, pleaseI'd like to settle up, please
[I'd like to set-tle up, please]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu, please?
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- Help!Help!
[Help!] - Go away!Get lost!
[Get lost!] - Call the Police!Call the cops!
[Call the cops!] - Call a doctor!Get a doc!
[Get a doc!] - I'm lostI’m turned around
[I’m turned a-round] - I'm illI ain't feelin' good
[I ain't feel-in' good]
- Help!Help!
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- I'd like to buy...I'm lookin' to buy...
[I'm look-in' to buy...] - I'm just lookingJust browsin'
[Just brow-zin'] - How much is it?What’s the price?
[What’s the price?] - That's too expensiveThat's way too high
[That's way too high] - Can you lower the price?Can ya cut the price?
[Can ya cut the price?]
- I'd like to buy...I'm lookin' to buy...
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- What time is it?What time ya got?
[What time ya got?] - It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
[It's one o'clock] - Half past (10)Half past ten
[Half past ten] - MorningMornin'
[Morn-in'] - AfternoonAfternoon
[Af-ter-noon] - EveningEvenin'
[Eve-nin'] - YesterdayYest'day
[Yest'-day] - TodayToday
[To-day] - TomorrowTomorrah
[To-mor-rah] - 1One
[One] - 2Two
[Two] - 3Three
[Three] - 4Four
[Four] - 5Five
[Five] - 6Six
[Six] - 7Seven
[Seven] - 8Eight
[Eight] - 9Nine
[Nine] - 10Ten
[Ten]
- What time is it?What time ya got?
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- Where's a/the...?Where's a...?
[Where's a...?] - What's the address?What's the address?
[What's the ad-dress?] - Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya point it out?
[Can ya point it out?] - When's the next (bus)?When's the next bus?
[When's the next bus?] - A ticket (to ....)A ticket to...
[A tick-et to...]
- Where's a/the...?Where's a...?
History of Badlands
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The Badlands of North Dakota were formed over millions of years through a combination of deposition and erosion. Layers of sediment were deposited by ancient seas, rivers, and wind. Over time, these layers were compressed into sedimentary rock. Subsequent erosion carved the landscape into the dramatic buttes, pinnacles, and valleys that we see today.
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The Badlands region has been home to various Native American tribes for thousands of years, including the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara nations. These indigenous peoples relied on the land for hunting bison and other game, and they established intricate trade networks. The area is rich in archaeological sites that offer insights into their way of life.
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In 1804-1806, the Lewis and Clark Expedition passed through the Badlands region during their journey to explore the newly acquired Louisiana Purchase. Their encounters with the rugged terrain and interactions with Native American tribes in the area were documented in their journals, providing a valuable historical record of the landscape and its inhabitants at the time.
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The Little Missouri River runs through the heart of the North Dakota Badlands, playing a significant role in shaping the landscape. Historically, it served as a vital water source for both Native American tribes and early settlers. The river's meandering course and seasonal flooding further contributed to the unique geological formations found in the region.
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Theodore Roosevelt, the 26th President of the United States, had a profound connection with the Badlands. After the tragic loss of his wife and mother on the same day in 1884, Roosevelt sought solace in the rugged terrain of the Badlands. He established a ranch near Medora, North Dakota, and spent significant time hunting and ranching in the area. His experiences in the Badlands influenced his conservation policies and led to the establishment of the National Park Service.
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Medora, a small town located in the North Dakota Badlands, was founded in 1883 by the French nobleman Marquis de Morès. He named the town after his wife, Medora von Hoffman. The Marquis built a meatpacking plant and a large home known as the 'Chateau de Morès.' Although his business ventures ultimately failed, Medora has since become a gateway for tourists exploring the Badlands and the nearby Theodore Roosevelt National Park.
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Theodore Roosevelt National Park was established in 1947 to honor President Roosevelt's conservation legacy and to preserve the unique landscape of the North Dakota Badlands. The park is divided into three units: the North Unit, the South Unit, and the Elkhorn Ranch Unit. It offers visitors opportunities to explore the diverse terrain, observe wildlife, and learn about the area's history and Roosevelt's enduring influence.
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The Badlands of North Dakota are renowned for their rich fossil beds, which have yielded significant paleontological discoveries. Fossils of ancient mammals, reptiles, and plants provide a window into the region's prehistoric past. The North Dakota Geological Survey and other institutions continue to conduct research and excavations in the area, uncovering new insights into the ancient ecosystems that once thrived here.
Neighbouring Regions of Badlands
The closest regions to Badlands, if you have time for more than one.
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Explore More of North Dakota
Looking beyond Badlands? Discover North Dakota for broader travel guides, local hot-spots, and regional highlights.
Explore North DakotaBadlands in Photos
Browse through our photo collection highlighting the charm and character of the destination.
The Enchanting Badlands of North Dakota
The Badlands of North Dakota offer a stunning and unique landscape that captivates the imagination. The area is known for its rugged terrain, multicolored rock formations, and rich fossil beds. Visitors can explore the Theodore Roosevelt National Park, where the Badlands' natural beauty is preserved and celebrated. The park is home to bison, wild horses, and prairie dogs, offering a glimpse into the diverse wildlife of the region. Hiking trails of varying difficulty levels allow tourists to experience the Badlands up close. Popular trails include the Painted Canyon Nature Trail and the Buckhorn Trail. Each trail provides breathtaking views of the layered rock formations and the vast, open skies. In addition to hiking, the Badlands are perfect for scenic drives, with the 36-mile loop through the South Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park being a must-see. The area is also steeped in history. The Badlands were a favorite retreat of President Theodore Roosevelt, who found solace and inspiration in the rugged landscape. Visitors can learn more about his life and legacy at the park's visitor centers. For those interested in paleontology, the Badlands' fossil beds are a treasure trove of ancient discoveries, with guided tours and exhibits available to the public.