Whether you are a Mount Rushmore State native or have ever visited for more than two minutes, you know that South Dakota is one of the most beautiful places on earth, thanks to our diverse landscapes and world-renowned landmarks. While every corner of the state is gorgeous, some spots are so one-of-a-kind and distinct that they almost seem to be — dare we say — out-of-this-world! Not sure what we mean? Check out the Pinnacles Overlook in South Dakota’s Badlands, an epic national park to visit in South Dakota.
If you are a longtime reader of Only in South Dakota, you know that we love covering the Badlands: a rocky 242,756 acres that house some of the most incredible rock formations in America.
TripAdvisor/chastuna47 To experience the entire park, it’s best to spend at least two full days! Badlands National Park has an endless list of fun things to do outside in South Dakota!
Created 69-million-years ago, the Badlands are the result of geologic forces of deposition and erosion and were once hidden by an ancient sea that has long since retreated.
TripAdvisor/BWBehling Badlands National Park also has one of the best fossil beds anywhere. This allows scientists to study the evolution of species in not only one of the best parks in South Dakota, but the entire world!
Comprised of colorful pinnacles and buttes, the Badlands are one of the most unique-looking places in the Mount Rushmore State, so much so that they seem to be from another planet.
TripAdvisor/Lynn W
Is it just me, or does this seem like something you’d see on the moon (or at least in Star Wars)?
TripAdvisor/Brenda H
To get an even better view of the other-worldly Badlands National Park, we recommend visiting the Pinnacles Overlook, which offers the best views of the landscape.
TripAdvisor/CrankingChick The Pinnacles Overlook at Badlands National Park is a popular destination. Did you know that it is the highest point of elevation in the North Unit section of the national park? The results are some amazing views from way up high!
The Pinnacles Overlook is located on the north end of the park and can be accessed via a .2-mile trail. Due to the spectacular scenery, this is one of the best hiking trails in South Dakota!
TripAdvisor/Citallwic The trail is easy for most and takes about ten minutes to complete. Please note that dogs are not allowed on this trail. Also, be prepared for hot, windy conditions during warmer months of the year.
Find jaw-dropping sights of hills and valleys along paved roads. Many offer multiple overlooks to stop and take in the natural beauty in Badlands National Park.
TripAdvisor/M J The Pinnacles Overlook and perfect for photos and admiring one of the best parks in South Dakota! Keep your eyes open for sheep, prairie dogs, and other native wildlife.
Badlands National Park is open year-round and offers two Visitor Centers to guests.
TripAdvisor/M J Visit either the Ben Reifel Visitor Center in the northern part of the park, or White River Visitor Center in the southern unit. Find maps, museum exhibits, gift shop, and friendly and knowledgeable staff at Badlands National Park to help you have the best time!
In conclusion, the Pinnacles Overlook at Badlands National Park help to make this a memorable and breathtaking national park to visit in South Dakota. Join the one million outdoor enthusiasts that visit the park each year to experience this pinnacle of national parks for yourself!
TripAdvisor/chastuna47
To experience the entire park, it’s best to spend at least two full days! Badlands National Park has an endless list of fun things to do outside in South Dakota!
TripAdvisor/BWBehling
Badlands National Park also has one of the best fossil beds anywhere. This allows scientists to study the evolution of species in not only one of the best parks in South Dakota, but the entire world!
TripAdvisor/Lynn W
TripAdvisor/Brenda H
TripAdvisor/CrankingChick
The Pinnacles Overlook at Badlands National Park is a popular destination. Did you know that it is the highest point of elevation in the North Unit section of the national park? The results are some amazing views from way up high!
TripAdvisor/Citallwic
The trail is easy for most and takes about ten minutes to complete. Please note that dogs are not allowed on this trail. Also, be prepared for hot, windy conditions during warmer months of the year.
TripAdvisor/M J
The Pinnacles Overlook and perfect for photos and admiring one of the best parks in South Dakota! Keep your eyes open for sheep, prairie dogs, and other native wildlife.
Visit either the Ben Reifel Visitor Center in the northern part of the park, or White River Visitor Center in the southern unit. Find maps, museum exhibits, gift shop, and friendly and knowledgeable staff at Badlands National Park to help you have the best time!
Do you know of any other places that are out-of-this-world (in terms of appearance, taste, or the feeling you get when you visit)? Let us know by filling out this submission form!
For even more places that are visually stunning, there are 9 Places In South Dakota That’ll Make You Swear You’re On Another Planet.
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Address: Badlands National Park, South Dakota, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
national park to visit in South Dakota August 10, 2022 Christina Arrascaeta Which state parks should I visit in South Dakota? With 63 state parks in the state, South Dakota is a wonderful place for outdoor enthusiasts! The best state parks that see the most visitors due to their accessibility, available activities, and scenic views include the Custer State Park in Custer, South Dakota. Other great options include the Palisades State Park in Garretson and the Lake Herman State Park. Does South Dakota have any natural wonders? Most tourists come to South Dakota to view the famous Mount Rushmore Memorial, however, there are plenty of natural wonders in the state as well! If you are looking for natural wonders in South Dakota, then head to the Burning Bluffs near Platte, or drive along the Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway. Going underground is an option, too! Try exploring Wind Cave National Park or reach for new heights at Badlands National Park. What are the most picturesque hiking trails in South Dakota? For gorgeous views and outdoor exploration, South Dakota hiking trails offer some of the best views in the nation! Take the Roughlock Falls Trail in the Black Hills National Forest for waterfall views in this alpine forest. Or take Castle Trail in Badlands National Forest for a moderately difficult hike to stunning rock formations and wildlife. Last, but definitely not least, is the famed Cathedral Spires Trail found in Custer State Park, where visitors can walk amongst tall granite pillars surrounded by South Dakota’s incredible wilderness.
The OIYS Visitor Center
national park to visit in South Dakota
August 10, 2022
Christina Arrascaeta
Which state parks should I visit in South Dakota? With 63 state parks in the state, South Dakota is a wonderful place for outdoor enthusiasts! The best state parks that see the most visitors due to their accessibility, available activities, and scenic views include the Custer State Park in Custer, South Dakota. Other great options include the Palisades State Park in Garretson and the Lake Herman State Park. Does South Dakota have any natural wonders? Most tourists come to South Dakota to view the famous Mount Rushmore Memorial, however, there are plenty of natural wonders in the state as well! If you are looking for natural wonders in South Dakota, then head to the Burning Bluffs near Platte, or drive along the Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway. Going underground is an option, too! Try exploring Wind Cave National Park or reach for new heights at Badlands National Park. What are the most picturesque hiking trails in South Dakota? For gorgeous views and outdoor exploration, South Dakota hiking trails offer some of the best views in the nation! Take the Roughlock Falls Trail in the Black Hills National Forest for waterfall views in this alpine forest. Or take Castle Trail in Badlands National Forest for a moderately difficult hike to stunning rock formations and wildlife. Last, but definitely not least, is the famed Cathedral Spires Trail found in Custer State Park, where visitors can walk amongst tall granite pillars surrounded by South Dakota’s incredible wilderness.
The OIYS Visitor Center
The OIYS Visitor Center
With 63 state parks in the state, South Dakota is a wonderful place for outdoor enthusiasts! The best state parks that see the most visitors due to their accessibility, available activities, and scenic views include the Custer State Park in Custer, South Dakota. Other great options include the Palisades State Park in Garretson and the Lake Herman State Park.
Does South Dakota have any natural wonders?
Most tourists come to South Dakota to view the famous Mount Rushmore Memorial, however, there are plenty of natural wonders in the state as well! If you are looking for natural wonders in South Dakota, then head to the Burning Bluffs near Platte, or drive along the Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway. Going underground is an option, too! Try exploring Wind Cave National Park or reach for new heights at Badlands National Park.
What are the most picturesque hiking trails in South Dakota?
For gorgeous views and outdoor exploration, South Dakota hiking trails offer some of the best views in the nation! Take the Roughlock Falls Trail in the Black Hills National Forest for waterfall views in this alpine forest. Or take Castle Trail in Badlands National Forest for a moderately difficult hike to stunning rock formations and wildlife. Last, but definitely not least, is the famed Cathedral Spires Trail found in Custer State Park, where visitors can walk amongst tall granite pillars surrounded by South Dakota’s incredible wilderness.
