One of the most popular trails in the Badlands National Park is the Castle Trail, which offers a unique and unforgettable experience. This trail takes hikers on a journey through the rugged terrain of the Badlands, showcasing stunning rock formations, sweeping vistas, and diverse wildlife. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner, the Castle Trail is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Badlands National Forest.
Need to know
Trail Highlights
Some of the the highlights of this trail are:
- The Castle Trail is the longest hiking trail in Badlands National Park, spanning over 10 miles.
- The trail offers stunning views of the unique rock formations and rugged terrain of the Badlands.
- Hikers may encounter a variety of wildlife along the trail, including bison, pronghorn, bighorn sheep, and coyotes.
- The trail passes through several different ecosystems, including prairie grasslands and mixed-grass prairie.
- Hikers can explore the Badlands formations up close, including spires, pinnacles, and hoodoos.
- The trail offers opportunities for backcountry camping, allowing hikers to experience the park’s wilderness in a more immersive way.
- The Castle Trail is also a popular spot for birdwatching, with over 200 species of birds recorded in the park.
- The trail is open year-round, but hikers should be prepared for extreme weather conditions, especially in the winter months.
Total distance: 10 miles (16 km)
Elevation gain: 500 feet.
Difficulty: 3/5
Child friendly?
The Castle Trail in Badlands National Park is suitable for children, but parents should be aware that it is a moderately difficult trail with some steep inclines and rocky terrain. Children should be supervised and wear appropriate footwear.
Local Campgrounds
Camping is a great option as a base camp for the Castle Trail. The trail is 10 miles long and takes about 5-6 hours to complete, so having a nearby campsite to return to after a long day of hiking is ideal. The best time of year to hike the Castle Trail is in the spring or fall when temperatures are cooler and there are fewer crowds. However, be prepared for unpredictable weather as the Badlands can experience sudden changes in temperature and strong winds. Camping allows for flexibility in case of weather changes and provides a unique opportunity to experience the park’s stunning night sky.
There are several campground options in the Badlands National Park area that are close to the Castle Trail. Some of the best options include:
1. Cedar Pass Campground: This is the only campground located within the park and is just a short drive from the Castle Trail. It offers both tent and RV camping, as well as cabins and tipis for rent.
2. Sage Creek Campground: This is a primitive campground located in the northern part of the park, near the Castle Trail. It offers no amenities, but is free and offers stunning views of the Badlands.
3. Badlands Interior Campground: This is a private campground located just outside the park’s entrance. It offers tent and RV camping, as well as cabins and a pool.
4. KOA Badlands: This is another private campground located just outside the park’s entrance. It offers tent and RV camping, as well as cabins, a pool, and other amenities.
No matter which campground you choose, be sure to book in advance as they can fill up quickly during peak season.
Other Activities
In addition to hiking, there are many other ways to discover this beautiful wildness. If you are planning a trip to Castle Trail, be sure to consider some of the following:
- Hiking on various trails, including the Notch Trail, Saddle Pass Trail, and Medicine Root Trail
- Camping in designated campgrounds or backcountry camping with a permit
- Scenic drives along the Badlands Loop Road or Sage Creek Rim Road
- Wildlife viewing, including bison, bighorn sheep, pronghorn, and coyotes
- Stargazing and astronomy programs
- Ranger-led programs and guided hikes
- Horseback riding on designated trails
- Birdwatching, with over 200 species of birds found in the park
- Photography opportunities of the unique rock formations and landscapes
- Geocaching and orienteering activities.
Castle Trail FAQs
Are dogs allowed? Yes, dogs must be kept on a leash at all times on the Castle Trail in the Badlands National Park.
Is the trail well signed? Yes, the Castle Trail in Badlands National Park is well signed.
