2021-12-16 10:32:12
Seven Essential Things to Do In Badlands National Park consists of 244,000 acres of sharply eroded buttes, pinnacles and spires blended with the largest protected mixed-grass prairie in the U.S. These striking geologic deposits also contain one of the world’s richest fossil beds. 1 TREK THROUGH THE PARK Explore the park on established hiking trails that range from flat stretches through prairie landscape to uphill climbs through the pinnacle formations. The Fossil Exhibit Trail, a National Scenic Trail, is one of the most popular and gives visitors a glimpse into the park’s distant past. 2 TAKE A SCENIC DRIVE Badlands Loop State Scenic Byway meanders through towering buttes, dramatic cliffs and striated spires. Stop at one of the many scenic overlooks along the way. Travel along the northern rim of the Badlands Wilderness Area on Sage Creek Rim Road. The gravel road hugs the dramatic drop off that separates the prairie from the alien landscape below. 3 WATCH FOR WILDLIFE The park is home to many resilient creatures, including some of the most endangered species in North America. Keep your eyes peeled for bighorn sheep, blackfooted ferrets, pronghorn and prairie dogs. The park’s herd of over 1,000 bison is easy to spot in the northern unit. 4 FAMILIARIZE YOURSELF WITH YOUR SURROUNDINGS at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center. Rangers are on site to answer your questions and provide you with park materials. The White River Visitor Center is located on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in the South Unit of the park. Talk with rangers about the significance of the Badlands in Lakota heritage, learn about the area’s history through exhibits, and get maps and information about the park. 5 ENJOY THE NIGHT SKY Take advantage of zero light pollution and marvel at over 7,500 stars visible in the sky, including the phenomenal clarity of the Milky Way Galaxy. Rangers point out constellations and provide telescopes during Night Sky Programs at Cedar Pass Amphitheater in the summer. 6 WATCH PALEONTOLOGISTS See paleontologists at work in the Fossil Preparation Lab, located in the Ben Reifel Visitor Center. Ask them questions to learn more about the ongoing science and research at Badlands National Park. 7 GO ON A FAMILY-FRIENDLY ADVENTURE Pick up a copy of the GPS Adventure Activity Book at the visitor center. A GPSenabled device will help you navigate to natural features, trails and wayside exhibits where you can learn more about the park. Discover more at nps.gov/badl.
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