Quick Facts:

Location: Badlands National Park, near Interior, South Dakota

Coordinates: 43.7506634263072, -101.93051961283152

Length: .5 Miles

Difficulty: Easy

Elevation Gain: Less than 100’

Dog Friendly: No

Introduction:

Badlands National Park, located near Interior, South Dakota, is famous for its rugged rock formations and expansive prairies. Among the park’s scenic trails, the Cliff Shelf Nature Trail offers a refreshing change of pace, leading visitors through a lush juniper forest with breathtaking views of the surrounding Badlands. This short, easy-to-moderate hike is ideal for families, casual hikers, and anyone looking to enjoy a more tranquil side of the park. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about hiking the Cliff Shelf Nature Trail, including how to get there, trail conditions, and the best time to visit.

How to Get to the Cliff Shelf Nature Trail:

The Cliff Shelf Nature Trail is conveniently located off Badlands Loop Road (Highway 240), the park’s main scenic drive. If you’re coming from Rapid City, take Interstate 90 east to Exit 131, which leads directly to the northeast entrance of Badlands National Park. Once inside the park, follow Badlands Loop Road for about 8 miles until you see the clearly marked signs for the Cliff Shelf Nature Trail parking area.

For those driving from Interior, South Dakota, take Highway 44 to the park entrance and head west along Badlands Loop Road. The trailhead is easy to spot, located close to the popular Ben Reifel Visitor Center.

Parking Information:

Once you reach the park, there is a $15/Vehicle to enter the Badlands, however the American the Beautiful pass gets you in for free. Parking at the Cliff Shelf Nature Trail is convenient, with a designated lot located directly at the trailhead. While the parking area is moderately sized, it can fill up during peak times, particularly in the summer months.

A Description of the Landscape:

Unlike many of the other trails in Badlands National Park, which showcase the park’s iconic eroded rock formations, the Cliff Shelf Nature Trail offers a more varied landscape. As you hike, you’ll wind through a lush juniper forest, a striking contrast to the typically dry and rocky Badlands terrain. The trail follows a natural ledge, or “shelf,” formed by a long-ago landslide, offering shaded areas and cooler temperatures, making it a refreshing escape during the warmer months.

As you ascend, the trail opens up to stunning vistas of the surrounding White River Valley and the rugged Badlands formations in the distance. From this elevated vantage point, you can appreciate the vast, expansive beauty of the park. The mix of green juniper trees, rocky outcrops, and panoramic views creates a diverse and visually striking experience. Wildlife is frequently spotted along the trail, with bighorn sheep and mule deer often roaming the area, adding to the natural allure.

Trail Difficulty and Length:

The Cliff Shelf Nature Trail is a short, easy hike. The trail is 0.5 miles round-trip, with a few moderate inclines as you ascend to the overlook. The path is well-maintained, though there are several steps and uneven surfaces, so wearing sturdy footwear is recommended.

While the trail is short, it offers a rewarding hike with fantastic views and diverse terrain. The shaded areas provided by the juniper trees make this trail more comfortable during the hot summer months, while the relatively low elevation gain keeps it accessible for families, seniors, and anyone looking for a relaxing yet scenic walk.

Is the Cliff Shelf Nature Trail Dog-Friendly?

Like most hiking trails in Badlands National Park, the Cliff Shelf Nature Trail is not dog-friendly. Pets are prohibited on all trails within the park to help protect the natural environment and minimize disturbances to wildlife. However, dogs are allowed in developed areas such as parking lots, campgrounds, and picnic areas, as long as they are kept on a leash no longer than six feet.

Local Regulations and Guidelines:

When exploring the Cliff Shelf Nature Trail, it’s essential to follow Badlands National Park’s regulations to help preserve the delicate ecosystem. Visitors are required to stay on the designated trail to avoid damaging the fragile soil and plant life, which are critical to the park’s health. Leave No Trace principles apply, meaning you should take out any trash or personal belongings you bring in to maintain the area’s natural beauty.

Drones are prohibited in the park to ensure a peaceful experience for all visitors and to protect the wildlife. The Badlands’ extreme weather, particularly during the summer months, can also pose challenges. Be sure to bring plenty of water, wear sun protection, and dress appropriately for the heat. While the Cliff Shelf Nature Trail offers some shaded areas, temperatures can still climb, so it’s important to stay hydrated and take breaks as needed.

Other Trails Nearby:

If you’re interested in exploring more of Badlands National Park, several other trails are located near the Cliff Shelf Nature Trail. The nearby Notch Trail is a popular choice for those seeking a bit more adventure. This moderately challenging hike features a thrilling ladder climb and offers panoramic views of the White River Valley, making it a favorite for more experienced hikers.

For a shorter, easier hike, the Door Trail is a great option. Located just a short drive away, the Door Trail takes visitors through a break in the rock formations, offering a closer look at the park’s eroded landscape. The trail is mostly flat and ideal for families or those looking for a leisurely stroll.

For those seeking a longer trek, the Castle Trail is the longest trail in the park, covering 10 miles round-trip. This trail winds through a mix of prairie and rock formations, giving hikers a chance to explore the park’s varied terrain over a more extended distance.

Non-Hiking Attractions Nearby:

In addition to hiking, Badlands National Park offers several non-hiking attractions that allow visitors to enjoy the park’s beauty and history. The Ben Reifel Visitor Center, located near the Cliff Shelf Nature Trail, is a great place to start. The center features informative exhibits on the park’s geology, wildlife, and history, as well as a short film that provides an overview of the park. It’s a perfect stop for those looking to learn more about the Badlands before heading out on a hike.

For visitors who prefer a more relaxed way to experience the park, the Badlands Loop Road is a scenic drive that winds through the park’s most iconic landscapes. With multiple pull-offs and overlooks, including Pinnacles Overlook and Big Badlands Overlook, this road offers stunning views without the need for a hike. The overlooks are particularly beautiful at sunrise and sunset, providing some of the best photographic opportunities in the park.

For history enthusiasts, the nearby Minuteman Missile National Historic Site offers a fascinating glimpse into America’s Cold War history. Visitors can tour decommissioned missile silos and learn about the nation’s missile defense system, making it a unique stop for those interested in history.

Best Time to Visit the Cliff Shelf Nature Trail:

The best time to hike the Cliff Shelf Nature Trail is during the spring and fall, when temperatures are cooler, and the park is less crowded. From April to June and September to October, daytime temperatures typically range from the 60s to 80s Fahrenheit, making for comfortable hiking conditions. In the spring, wildflowers bloom throughout the park, adding bursts of color to the landscape, while fall offers crisp air and clearer skies.

Summer is the busiest season in the park, but it can also be extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit. If you visit during July or August, plan to hike early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat. The shaded portions of the Cliff Shelf Nature Trail make it more comfortable than some other hikes, but it’s still important to bring plenty of water and protect yourself from the sun.

Winter provides a quieter experience, as the park sees fewer visitors. Snow occasionally blankets the landscape, creating a beautiful contrast with the colorful rock formations. However, winter temperatures can be cold, and trail conditions may vary, so be sure to check for road closures or weather updates before planning your visit.