South Dakota is well-known for its interesting rock formations — the state is home to Mount Rushmore, perhaps the most iconic American rock formation, after all! But there are so many other gorgeous, rocky places in the state. One visit to Badlands National Park to hike Saddle Pass Trail proves that! Here’s what to know about this short but beautiful hike.
Saddle Pass Trail is a gorgeous hike located in South Dakota’s Badlands National Park.
Linda Stohler-Enearl/AllTrails On this trail, you’ll get to admire the many fascinating rock formations in the park!
It almost feels like an alien landscape in Badlands National Park. It can be eerie, but always beautiful.
Kyle Leslie/AllTrails The rocks jutting out of the plains of south Dakota are just so jaw-dropping and stunning!
This particular trail is not long — it’s a little over half a mile long.
Linda Stohler-Enearl/AllTrails However, that doesn’t mean it’s super easy. The out-and-back trail has an elevation of 216 feet, getting you up high in a short distance. It’s rated “moderate” on AllTrails.
But that elevation gain is worth it — you get a fantastic view of the Badlands.
Tim Santos/AllTrails We’re just in awe of the rock formations here!
Make sure you pack good hiking shoes for this trip. The trail can get rocky and quite slippery.
Kyle Leslie/AllTrails On a windy day, the gusts up here can feel very powerful, contributing to the need for shoes you won’t slip in!
We would definitely recommend this hike when you’re looking for a fun, quick challenge.
Linda Stohler-Enearl/AllTrails People of many different ages and skill levels will enjoy it.
Also keep in mind that Badlands National Park charges a fee to enter — $30 per private vehicle, or $15 if you’re a individual hiking or biking in.
Linda Stohler-Enearl/AllTrails You can also get an annual pass if you expect you’ll visit the park often. It’s only $55 a year!
Are you familiar with this trail? Are there others in the Badlands you’d recommend?
Linda Stohler-Enearl/AllTrails
On this trail, you’ll get to admire the many fascinating rock formations in the park!
Kyle Leslie/AllTrails
The rocks jutting out of the plains of south Dakota are just so jaw-dropping and stunning!
However, that doesn’t mean it’s super easy. The out-and-back trail has an elevation of 216 feet, getting you up high in a short distance. It’s rated “moderate” on AllTrails.
Tim Santos/AllTrails
We’re just in awe of the rock formations here!
On a windy day, the gusts up here can feel very powerful, contributing to the need for shoes you won’t slip in!
People of many different ages and skill levels will enjoy it.
You can also get an annual pass if you expect you’ll visit the park often. It’s only $55 a year!
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Address: Badlands National Park, South Dakota, USA
