Good to know
- Tickets
- Charges an entry fee per vehicle, covered by the America the Beautiful pass. Check nps.gov for current rates.
- Time needed
- Half a day to drive the Loop Road; a full day to add hikes and Sage Creek.
- Best time
- May to June and September to October for mild weather. Sunrise and sunset light up the colours.
- Getting there
- Interior sits by the Ben Reifel Visitor Center. Fly into Rapid City Regional Airport, about 1 hour 15 minutes by car.
Where to stay nearby
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Badlands National Park questions
Do I need a reservation for Badlands National Park?
No. There is no timed entry; you just pay the entry fee at the gate. Book the Cedar Pass Lodge or campground ahead in summer.
What are the best short hikes in Badlands?
The Door, Window and Notch trails near Cedar Pass are all short. The Notch has a log ladder and big views.
Can I see Badlands and Mount Rushmore in one day?
Yes, but it is a long day. Mount Rushmore is about 1.5 hours west of the park's west entrance.
