Badlands National Park Audio Tour

Things to do on the Tour Include:

• Welcome

  Your tour of the Badlands begins just south of Wall, South Dakota.

• What's in a Name?

  Learn where the Badlands get their name, as well as why its origins might not be what you think.

• The Badlands Wall

  Drive along the famous Badlands Wall and get to know how it formed.

• Erosion

  Find out how wind and water give the Badlands their distinctive appearance.

• Hay Butte Overlook

  Stop by your first overlook and get a great view of a butte frequented by bison and bighorn sheep.

• Badlands Wilderness Overlook

  Gaze out across the sprawling wilderness of the Badlands and learn what this viewpoint says about the land's future.

• Roberts Prairie Dog Town

  Spot playful prairie dogs in their natural habitat at this optional detour.

• Pinnacles Overlook

  Witness stunning wildlife and catch breathtaking sunset views from this southwest-facing overlook, where bighorn sheep and bison can often be spotted.

• Ancient Hunters Overlook

  Discover the historical significance of this spot, once used by ancient tribes as a butchering ground for bison after successful hunts.

• Nomadland

  Reflect on the transient nature of human habitation in the Badlands, as ancient tribes primarily used the area for hunting rather than permanent settlement.

• Bison and Pronghorns

  Encounter the magnificent American bison, as well as the nimble pronghorn, both integral to maintaining the ecosystem through their grazing habits.

• Yellow Mounds Overlook

  Behold the mesmerizing colors of the formations, representing different geologic layers and offering glimpses into the earth's ancient history.

• Conata Basin Overlook

  Marvel at the yellow paleosols, remnants of the ancient sea bed, and the remarkable Pierre Shale formation, showcasing the diverse geological composition of the Badlands.

• Homestead Overlook

  Learn about the Homestead Acts and the challenges faced by settlers in the Badlands, as well as the impact on the Native Lakota people.

• Homesteaders and the Lakota

  Revisit the brutal struggles between American homesteaders and the Lakota tribe over the land surrounding the Badlands.

• Burns Basin Overlook

  Discover the story of Wilson Burns, a clever homesteader who found success as a sheep rancher by utilizing a natural freshwater spring on his land.

• Prehistoric Monsters

  Explore the rich paleontological history of the Badlands, including the presence of fascinating creatures like the mosasaur, a giant marine predator.

• Prairie Wind Overlook

  Appreciate the beauty and diversity of the mixed-grass prairie ecosystem, while recognizing the urgent need for its preservation.

• Panorama Point

  Capture breathtaking views of the White River Valley and the iconic Badlands rock formations, especially during magical "magic hothe ur" of sunrise or after a rainstorm.

• Bigfoot Pass Overlook

  Learn about the tragic events surrounding Chief Spotted Elk (Big Foot) and the Wounded Knee Massacre, a dark chapter in the history of the Lakota people.

• White River Valley Overlook

  Admire the grandeur of the White River Valley, shaped by the ancient waters of the White River, and witness the remarkable formations like The Castle.

• Golden Eagles

  Keep an eye on the skies to spot the majestic golden eagles, known for their impressive wingspan and hunting prowess.

• Fossil Exhibit Trail

  Embark on a family-friendly boardwalk adventure, exploring replica fossils and learning about the extinct creatures that once roamed the Badlands.

• The Big Pig Dig

  Discover the fascinating story behind the Big Pig Dig, a significant paleontological expedition that uncovered thousands of fossils of prehistoric pigs.

• Clastic Dikes

  Marvel at the unique clastic dikes, vertical sheets of sturdy rock that support the steep peaks of the Badlands, adding to their structural integrity.

• Saddle Pass Trail

  Take a short but challenging hike on the steep Saddle Pass Trail, offering birdwatching opportunities and scenic views.

• Shrinking Grassland

  Understand the threats facing the native prairie grassland, including the impact of the Homestead Acts, invasive plant species, and the need for conservation efforts.

• Ben Reifel Visitor Center

  Take a break at the visitor center, where you can explore exhibits, visit the Fossil Preparation Lab, and browse the Badlands Natural History Association bookstore.

• Cliff Shelf Trail

  Consider hiking the Cliff Shelf Trail, Saddle Pass Trail, Notch/Castle/Door Trails, and the Fossil Exhibit Trail to experience different aspects of the Badlands and enjoy panoramic views.

• Notch/Castle/Door Trails

  Learn about Senator Peter Norbeck's efforts to establish the Badlands as Wonderland National Park, leading to its eventual designation as Badlands National Monument and later as a national park.

• Wonderland National Park

  Learn about Senator Peter Norbeck's efforts to establish the Badlands as Wonderland National Park, leading to its eventual designation as Badlands National Monument and later as a national park.

• Big Badlands Overlook

  Reach the final stop of the tour, offering a breathtaking view of the eastern Badlands Wall and striped layers of rock, providing an ideal opportunity for capturing stunning photos.