Door Trail in Badlands NP

A perfect intro to the magnificence of Badlands National Park, the Door Trail is located in between the Ben Reifel Visitor Center and the northeast entrance of the park. Other trails that can be accessed at this parking lot are the Door Trail, the Window Trail, the Notch Trail and Castle Trail.

The trail begins on a boardwalk for .1 miles, cutting around the formations and right into the heart of the terrain. Head down a few stairs onto an unmaintained trail and follow the yellow rod trail markers for about .3 miles until you reach the furthest point.

It’s one of the few trails that truly let you feel the full immersion in this incredibly unique environment. It is highly recommended to either watch the sun rise or set over the horizon. The formations will illuminate a bright orange-pink under the glowing sky, allowing the depth of the ridges to carve the landscape.

*CAUTION* Wear sturdy shoes and step with attention as the soft terrain is not perfectly flat and there are drop-offs.