Hiking in Theodore Roosevelt National Park is one of the best ways to understand the badlands up close: not as a distant backdrop, but as a living, eroding landscape of ridgelines, grassy draws, clay slopes, river bottoms, and wide-open prairie. With 32 trails spread across easy, moderate, and difficult routes, the park offers a notably broad range for hikers. Short, easy walks deliver big scenery with minimal effort, while moderate trails push deeper into the folds of the badlands, and the park’s more difficult routes reward stronger hikers with solitude, sweeping views, and a more intimate feel for this rugged terrain. It’s a park where casual walkers, families, and ambitious day hikers can all find a trail that fits. Standout hikes capture the full character of the park. Buck Hill is a classic short climb with an outsized payoff, opening to one of the South Unit’s most memorable panoramas and a superb sunrise or sunset perch. The Bison Trail offers a more immersive badlands experience, where wildlife and terrain feel close at hand and the route gives a strong sense of the park’s raw, untamed energy. In the North Unit, the River Bend area delivers one of the park’s signature views, while the Maah Daah Hey and Ekblom trails hint at a wilder, more remote side of Theodore Roosevelt, leading hikers toward the Little Missouri River corridor and the Theodore Roosevelt Wilderness. What makes hiking here special is the combination of drama and unpredictability: the land is constantly changing, the footing can be tricky, and encounters with bison, wild horses, and elk are part of the experience. Few parks make you feel the texture of the landscape so directly.
This trail offers stunning 360° views from one of the park's highest points. The area was once an ancient streambed, evident in the rock formations. It's an ideal spot for stargazing due to its unobstructed views of the clear sky.
Winding through juniper and wildflowers, the path crosses cracked washes and showcases ongoing erosion. The trail offers panoramic views of the canyon, with its vibrant layers of rock, and provides a glimpse into the region's unique geological history. Wildlife such as bison and wild horses can often be spotted, adding to the natural beauty of the area. The trail's varied terrain includes steep sections and uneven footing, requiring proper footwear for a safe and enjoyable hike.
Descend into a colorful canyon carved by the Little Missouri River, where wind and water continue to shape the landscape. The trail offers panoramic views and opportunities to see wild horses, bison, and other wildlife amidst sage fields and juniper trees. The steep drop into the canyon is followed by level walking, providing a dynamic hiking experience. Proper footwear is essential due to uneven terrain and potential mud after rain. The trail's scenic beauty is enhanced by the contrast of light and shadows, especially at dawn and dusk.
Millions of years ago, this area was once a swamp, where trees fell and were submerged, eventually becoming petrified. Today, remnants of these ancient trees lie scattered across the landscape, offering a glimpse into a bygone era. The hike takes you through diverse terrain, including badlands and grasslands, with frequent sightings of bison. The petrified wood, though less dense than other locations, is still a remarkable sight, with visitors encouraged to explore and photograph these natural wonders while respecting the environment.
This challenging backcountry trail offers breathtaking views of the Badlands and the Little Missouri River. Hikers can expect steep climbs, river crossings, and encounters with wildlife like bison. The trail's rugged nature and remote location make it a true wilderness experience.
This short loop trail offers stunning views of the badlands and the Little Missouri River. It features wind-sculpted cliffs and is a popular spot for sunset viewing. The trail is suitable for all ages and provides a glimpse into the unique erosion patterns of the area.
This trail offers breathtaking views of the Badlands, featuring steep climbs and descents, along with river crossings. It is known for its challenging terrain and wildlife encounters, including bison. The trail follows a ridge above the Little Missouri River, providing spectacular sunsets and sunrises.
This trail offers a scenic overlook with a fully paved path, making it accessible for all visitors. The trail provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape, perfect for a quick stop during a scenic drive. For the more adventurous, an unpaved extension leads to additional vistas.
This trail provides a gentle hike through varied landscapes, offering scenic views and opportunities to connect with nature. It is suitable for families and beginners looking for a short, enjoyable outing.
Experience diverse habitats from sagebrush flats to wooded hillsides. This trail offers views of interesting geologic features and abundant wildlife, including prairie dogs. It traverses varied terrain, providing a comprehensive look at the park's ecosystems.
Witness the dramatic effects of fire and water on the badlands landscape. Prominent layers of brick-red clay, known locally as scoria, cap the hills, while bands of black lignite coal lie hidden beneath. The coal veins have periodically caught fire, baking the adjacent clays into hard, red formations. Vegetation thrives in seasonal ponds and north-facing slopes, stabilizing the soil and controlling erosion. Junipers and other plants flourish in this unique environment, shaped by both natural fires and water flow.
This loop offers stunning views of the badlands and grasslands, with opportunities to spot wildlife like mule deer, coyotes, and bison. The trail includes a river crossing and varied terrain, making it a memorable experience.
Hike through a serene landscape featuring old-growth forests, marshes, and wetlands. The area is rich in biodiversity, offering opportunities to spot wildlife such as egrets and toads. The trails are well-marked and suitable for families or beginners.
This trail offers a glimpse into the badlands landscape, featuring unique geological formations and diverse wildlife. The area is known for its rugged terrain and scenic views, though specific details about this trail are limited.
Wander through vast prairies and forests, encountering diverse wildlife such as bison, wild horses, and prairie dogs. The journey includes a visit to a petrified forest, offering a glimpse into ancient geological history. Scenic views of rolling hills and badlands terrain provide a backdrop for this immersive wilderness experience.
This trail offers a challenging hike through steep terrain, culminating in stunning views of the river valley. The path is less frequented, providing a more secluded experience amidst the rugged landscape.
This trail traverses through prairie dog towns and offers scenic views of the badlands. The terrain is generally flat with some uneven sections, providing a moderate hiking experience. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, making it a popular choice for nature enthusiasts.
This trail offers a moderate hike through the badlands, providing insights into the local flora and fauna. The path includes steep stairs, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. A brochure available at the trailhead enhances the experience with detailed information about the area's natural features.
This trail offers a journey through the badlands, featuring scenic vistas and diverse wildlife habitats. It connects with other trails, providing opportunities to explore the unique geological formations and ecosystems of the area.
This loop trail offers a scenic journey through the badlands, featuring diverse wildlife and unique geological formations. The trail provides opportunities to observe the natural beauty of the area, including the varied flora and fauna that inhabit the region.
Hike through badlands terrain with opportunities to see bison and wild horses. The trail offers scenic views of the surrounding landscape, making it a popular choice for those interested in wildlife and natural scenery.
This trail offers a scenic hike across grassy plateaus, providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It branches off from the Maah Daah Hey Trail, offering a unique experience for those exploring the area's natural beauty.
This trail offers a gentle stroll through a natural setting, providing a glimpse into the park's unique landscape. It is ideal for those seeking a brief, easy walk with minimal elevation change.
This trail offers breathtaking views of the Little Missouri River valley from a shelter built by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The scenic overlook provides a dramatic perspective on the surrounding landscape, reminiscent of untouched natural beauty. Visitors may encounter wildlife like bison during their hike.
Hike through a lush canyon with ocean views, featuring a mix of coastal scrub and wildlife. The trail offers a peaceful escape with scenic overlooks and a chance to spot local wildlife like quail and deer.
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