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Badlands National Park features dramatic landscapes spanning layered rock formations, steep canyons and towering spires. Bison, bighorn sheep and prairie dogs inhabit its sprawling grasslands. The 240, 000 park is located in South Dakota, 75 miles east of Rapid City. The park is a popular destination in summer. Most people see the park by driving the 30+ mile scenic drive. The best places for running in Badlands National Park are along the Badlands Loop Scenic Highway, Sage Creek Rim Road, and some of the hiking trails. The most popular spot for running is the Castle Trail, 5 miles of level, scenic running free of cars. At the southern end of the park, Sheep Mountain Table is gorgeous for running. The Visitor Center is at the eastern end of the park.
Badlands Scenic Road Sage Creek Rim Road Castle Trail: 5 miles one way Medicine Root Loop: 4-mile loop Sheep Mountain Table. 7 miles one-way Boondocking Area. 5 miles out and back, 319 foot gain Deer Haven Trail. 3 miles or more Wind Cave National Park. This park, located 60 miles southeast of Badlands, is known for its gorgeous prairie lands and some of the world’s longest caves. The go-to run is the Wind Cave Trail, an 8 km loop winding through red rock formations. You might catch some bison views! Accessible from the Wind Cave National Park Visitor Center, just off Hwy 385.
A two-lane paved road through the north unit of the park, connecting Rt. 90 at either end. The part of the road within the park is 26 miles. There are 30 scenic overlooks along the road. Run anywhere along the road, or coordinate with a partner to shuttle you for a one-way run. A particularly nice spot is in the Dillon Pass area, toward the Conata Picnic Area and Deer Haven. Several steep passes involving an elevation change of 250 feet in less than 500 meters. Note there are sections where the road is narrow and there can be traffic and RVs. Run opposite to traffic.
A gravel route along the northern edge of the Badlands Wilderness Area, past Roberts Prairie Dog Town, and includes a section through the oldest exposed layers of the White River Badlands. Do any section by pulling out along the road or from the Sage Creek Campground. The entire road is 22 miles one way. Wildlife is abundant, including the American bison. Use caution. Watch for ruts and loose gravel. Sage Creek Rim Road may experience heavy traffic during the summer months and can be dusty.Hiking Trails Good for Running
The longest trail in the park begins at the Door and Window parking area and travels 5 miles one-way to the Fossil Exhibit Trail. Relatively level, the path passes along some badlands formations. Can also combine with Saddle Pass Trail, which climbs up the Badlands Wall to a view over the White River Valley (300 foot gain).
This generally rolling trail connects with the Castle Trail near the Old Northeast Road and at the intersection of the Castle and Saddle Pass Trails. This trail is an opportunity to explore the mixed grass prairie, while enjoying views of the Badlands in the distance. The trail is a 4-mile loop, but will likely incorporate part of the Castle Trail. Can also combine with Saddle Pass Trail, which climbs up the Badlands Wall to a view over the White River Valley (300 foot gain).
A wonderful spot for running in the southern unit of the park. A gravel road, away from the traffic. The road starts 5 miles south of Scenic (Rt. 44), and continues up to 7 miles to the end, crossing into the park and bordering Pine Ridge Reservation. Best to do a few miles and turn back. The first 3 miles are fairly flat, then there’s a steady climb, up to 580 feet elevation gain over the last half.
Near the Pinnacle Entrance at the northeast section of the park. A gorgeous trail runs between the Boondocking Area Campground and the Pinnacles entrance. Absolutely incredible views. Decent footing, rolling hills, hard dirt/grass surface.
Pleasant gravel trail from the Conata Picnic Area to the Wilderness area along the Deer Haven trail. This trail can go for several miles.
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