Information
Landmark: Notch TrailCity: Wall
Country: USA South Dakota
Continent: North America
Notch Trail, Wall, USA South Dakota, North America
Overview
The Notch Trail winds through Badlands National Park in South Dakota-a moderate hike known for its striking views of jagged, sun-baked formations and the wide, pale prairie stretching beyond, then just steps from the Ben Reifel Visitor Center, this trail threads through the park’s Door, Window, and Notch loop, a quick but thrilling climb where you edge along narrow rock ledges and pause to take in sweeping views of the badlands.Visitors who crave more adventure than the park’s short scenic walks hit this trail, where dust clings to their boots and the Badlands’ spires, canyons, and prairie stretch close enough to touch, subsequently the trail runs about 1.5 miles round trip and climbs roughly 250 feet, a steady uphill that makes it a moderate hike.Be ready for a few steep climbs, a rough wooden ladder slick with morning dew, and stretches of uneven ground, furthermore one highlight of the trail is a solid wooden ladder that lets hikers climb through a narrow rock notch, a quick burst of adventure that ends with a sweeping view perfect for a photo.The trail snakes through jagged cliffs, weathered spires, and tight stone ledges, revealing the Badlands’ intricate geology beneath a haze of red dust, therefore from the trail’s crest, hikers step into a wide overlook with the prairie stretching in waves below, jagged buttes cutting the horizon, and pale pinnacles glinting far off in the sun, generally On a clear day, the park seems endless, rolling toward the horizon where sunlight glints off the rugged Badlands, while while hiking Notch Trail, visitors might spot Badlands wildlife-the shaggy outline of a bison or a pronghorn grazing in the sunlit prairie below the cliffs.Hawks and falcons glide over the jagged rocks, their wings cutting through the sparkling air in a stunning show of power, moreover you might spot prairie dogs, rabbits, and a few other tiny mammals darting across the lower slopes, their quick movements stirring little puffs of dust.The trail winds through stretches of mixed-grass prairie, where seasonal wildflowers flare with color and bring life to the rough, open land, to boot the Notch Trail offers a short, satisfying adventure that blends workout and wonder-one moment you’re striding across open prairie, the next you’re gripping a rocky ledge with the wind in your face, kind of The ladder section kicks up the excitement and offers great spots for photos, like when sunlight catches the rusted rungs, making it one of the most memorable parts of hiking the Badlands, at the same time families with older kids love this trail, and it’s perfect for casual hikers looking for a steady workout or photographers chasing those sweeping views of sunlit cliffs and sculpted stone.This trail usually feels calmer than the busy scenic overlooks, where you can hear wind rustle through the pines and connect more closely with the land, while visiting in the early morning or late afternoon gives your photos warm, balanced light and spares you from the harsh midday sun.Oddly enough, Find the Notch Trail just past the Ben Reifel Visitor Center in Badlands National Park, South Dakota, consequently the 1.5‑mile round trip packs a moderate challenge-there’s a wooden ladder to climb and tight passages to squeeze through.Expect sweeping views, prairie winds, and the chance to spot bighorn sheep if you start early on a cool morning, simultaneously bring sturdy shoes, plenty of water, and sunscreen, and watch your footing along the narrow ledges.Short but thrilling, this hike captures the park’s rough‑hewn beauty in one unforgettable stretch, on top of that this trail packs steep climbs, sweeping views, and up-close glimpses of the park’s unique rock formations into a short, easy-to-reach route-perfect for anyone chasing both adventure and awe.
Author: Tourist Landmarks
Date: 2025-11-01
