Badlands Loop Road (SD 240)
Badlands Loop Road
A scenic road of about 63 km through the northern unit of Badlands National Park, linking more than a dozen overlooks with spires, gullies, and colorful mounds.
South Dakota Highway 240 runs from the Pinnacles entrance near Wall to the northeast entrance and connects two exits on I-90. It is the main route through the Badlands. Along the way, overlooks such as Big Badlands, White River Valley, Yellow Mounds, and the Pinnacles are linked by several short trails. Driving without stopping takes about 1 hour, while a leisurely tour takes half a day or more. A park vehicle pass costs about $30 and is valid for 7 days (check the official website for details), and the America the Beautiful annual pass is also accepted. Bighorn sheep and prairie dogs are common along the road. Do not feed the wildlife. Summer midday heat is intense, so carry plenty of water.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- White River Valley Overlook
- Fossil Exhibit Trail
- Castle Trail
- Ben Reifel Visitor Center
- Window Trail
- Cliff Shelf Nature Trail
- Notch Trail
- Door Trail