🌄 The Door Trail – Stepping Into the Heart of the Badlands, South Dakota

While Simba 🐾 had to sit this one out because of pet restrictions, I couldn’t pass up the chance to hike one of Badlands National Park’s most iconic and accessible trails — The Door Trail.

This short but jaw-dropping trek takes you through a gap in the Badlands Wall and straight into an otherworldly landscape of jagged peaks, colorful sediment layers, and sweeping prairie views.

📍 Trail Info

Location: Badlands National Park, South Dakota
Length: ~0.75 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Highlights: Boardwalk to rugged terrain, panoramic Badlands views, unique geology

🚶‍♂️ What to Expect on the Door Trail

The adventure begins with a scenic boardwalk, perfect for an easy stroll and accessible for most visitors. Soon, the path transitions into open, rugged terrain, where you can wander among eroded spires, layered buttes, and deep gullies that look like something from another planet.

Every turn offers a new panoramic view of the Badlands’ surreal landscape, with colors that shift beautifully depending on the light.

🏞️ Why This Trail Is a Must-See

The Door Trail is perfect for:

• First-time visitors to the Badlands
• Photographers chasing dramatic landscapes
• Anyone short on time but eager for a big “wow” moment

It’s a brief hike with massive payoff, allowing you to feel truly immersed in the park’s wild beauty without committing to a long trek.

🎥 Watch the Video

🐾 Simba’s Take

Although he couldn’t join me this time, Simba says he’ll be back for the dog-friendly scenic drives and nearby trails outside the park boundary.

🎥 This hike is part of my Life on Paws and Wheels travel series — bringing you along as Simba and I (sometimes solo!) explore America’s trails, parks, and quirky roadside stops.

👍 LIKE | 💬 COMMENT | 🔔 SUBSCRIBE for more paws-on and paws-off adventures!

Location: Badlands National Park, South Dakota, USA

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