There are many good adventures to be had in the Badlands of South Dakota. However, planning your adventure on your own can be a daunting task. Consider making use of a local tour company like Black Hills Adventure Tours or vacation guide. Then sit back and relax as a friendly guide takes you through the incredible area. Regardless, if you use a guide service or drive yourself, your three-day adventure will be filled with the natural wonders of Badlands National Park and Buffalo Gap National Grassland alongside the exploration of American history at the Minuteman Missile National Historic Site and Prairie Homestead. THis adventure is packed with cute critters, outdoor activities, and plenty of opportunities for shopping and dining.
Set among the picturesque backdrop of expansive plains and the breathtaking views of the Badlands, Wall offers all the expected and plenty of the unexpected. This charming town filled with hometown hospitality makes the perfect home base to experience all the fantastic things the area has to offer.
All this is made possible by the Wall Badlands Area Chamber of Commerce, which serves as a gateway to South Dakota's finest attractions and opportunities. While Wall has become a hub for tourism and is often referred to as the "Window to the West," "Gateway to the Badlands," or the "Heart of American Tourism" – the city is a destination stop in its own right.
Day 1
Buffalo Gap National Grassland
Take some time to get away from it all at Buffalo Gap National Grassland. The grassland encompasses nearly 600,000 acres and is made up of rolling prairie, woodland draws and rugged Badlands. It’s home to one of the most extensive and productive ecosystems in the U.S., with a surprising diversity of plants and animals. The grassland has tons of open space, few crowds, and endless possibilities for outdoor recreation.
Start at the National Grasslands Visitor Center, located on Main Street in Wall. The knowledgeable staff can offer recreation suggestions, maps, directions, and practical advice on the best way to make the most out of your grasslands experience. In the Exhibit Room, discover displays on wildlife, Great Plains history, grazing management, human artifacts, grassland ecosystems and more.
Before heading out to the grasslands, stop in the Wall Food Center or pick up a Subway sandwich for a picnic lunch. Take a hike, mountain bike on a designated trail or explore the area on horseback riding trails.
Photo courtesy of Bonnie Law
More than 100 species of animals are found on the grassland. Keep your eyes peeled for prairie dogs, mule and whitetail deer, pronghorn (commonly referred to as antelope), coyotes, badgers, jackrabbits, gophers, red fox and scores of birds. The area is also said to have one of the most successful black-footed ferret reintroduction programs undertaken by the federal government. Bring your camera to capture the many personalities you’re sure to encounter.
Photo courtesy of Bonnie Law
Hunting
Buffalo Gap National Grasslands is a popular destination for prairie dog hunting. Please note that a state license is required for prairie dog shooting. For licensing information and regulations, call the South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks at 605-223-7700. You may request a license as well as the Hunting Handbook of Regulations online at gfp.sd.gov/licenses/. Shooting prairie dogs in the Conata Basin area of Buffalo Gap National Grassland is prohibited year-round.
Hunting is a year-round activity here. The area provides ideal habitats for pheasants, prairie dogs and coyotes. Fall is great for big game prairie hunting–mule deer, whitetail deer and antelope–and the spring and fall are prime times for turkey hunts. Local hunting guides, like Dakota Safaris and Shearers Western Dakota Ranch, provide exceptional hunting experiences in key areas with ample opportunities to get the game you’re after.
Minuteman Missile National Historic Site
From there, head to the Minuteman Missile National Historic Site for a firsthand look at the Cold War missile sites rarely seen by civilians when they were in use. The park consists of three sites along a fifteen-mile stretch of I-90: the Visitor Center, Launch Control Facility Delta-01 and the Delta-09 Missile Silo. If you have a particular interest in the Cold War or nuclear weapons, you could easily spend a half-day or more here.
The Visitor Center is the best place to start your visit. It’s located immediately north of I-90 at Exit 131. Explore the exhibits to learn more about the Cold War, the nuclear arms race, and the Minuteman Missile system. Their friendly staff will help you learn more about the park and answer your questions. Then take a self-guided or cellphone guided tour of the Launch Facility (Missile Silo) Delta-09.
Round out your visit with a ranger-guided tour of the Launch Control Facility Delta-01. During the 30-minute tour, you’ll learn what it was like to have the awesome responsibility of thermonuclear war at your fingertips. Descend 31 feet underground via elevator to the Launch Control Center to see the electronic consoles used by missileers to control 10 Minuteman II missiles. Be sure to plan ahead. Advanced reservations are required for all tours.
Prairie Homestead
Continue your journey back in time at Prairie Homestead, located off I-90 at Exit 131. You’ll get a glimpse of how life was for the early settlers of the homestead days at this original pioneer dirt home that’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
To truly immerse yourself in the experience, dress in pioneer clothing that the homestead has available to wear while exploring the sod home, cave, outhouse, chicken coop, and barn. Be sure to say hi to the farm animals and the rare white prairie dogs.
Camping in the Badlands
Spend your evening surrounded by the beauty of the Badlands at Cedar Pass Lodge. With cabins, campsites and RV sites, you’re sure to find the perfect place to rest your head. Grab a delicious dinner from the Cedar Pass Restaurant or pick up camping supplies, groceries, and Badlands souvenirs at the nearby gift shop. Cedar Pass Lodge is conveniently located near the National Park Service amphitheater where evening programs are held during the summer.
Badlands/White River KOA and Badlands Motel & Campground also offer a plethora of overnight options with great views of the Badlands.
Day 2
Badlands National Park
Wake up to the otherworldly landscape of Badlands National Park, where sharply eroded buttes, pinnacles, and spires blend together with the largest protected mixed-grass prairie in the U.S.
Begin your day soaring through the air on a Badlands Helicopter tour to gain a deeper appreciation for the rugged beauty and striking geological formations of the park’s more than 160 square miles.
From there, go to the Ben Reifel Visitor Center to familiarize yourself with your surroundings. Sit back and relax in the theater to watch an impressive 22-minute film. Many of the kid-friendly educational exhibits feature interactive components. Colorful photos and life-size models illustrate the geology and paleontology of the Badlands. While there, stop and shop at the Badlands Natural History Association gift shop.
Hiking
Explore the park on one of the established hiking trails that range from flat stretches through the prairie landscape to uphill climbs through the Badland formations. The Fossil Exhibit Trail, a National Scenic Trail, is one of the most heavily used of all park facilities and gives visitors a glimpse into the park’s distant past. The fully accessible boardwalk trail features fossil replicas and exhibits of now extinct creatures that once roamed the area.
The Door and Window Trails are two other easy walking paths that lead to stunning views. Notch Trail, Castle Trail, Cliff Shelf, Medicine Root Loop, and Saddle Pass offer moderate to strenuous hikes. Please note that there is no potable water in the Badlands, so make sure you carry enough in with you. A hat, sunscreen and rain gear are also strongly encouraged in case of changing weather.
Photo courtesy of Bonnie Law
Wildlife Viewing
As you make your way through the park, keep your camera handy for wildlife sightings that may include bison, bighorn sheep and prairie dogs. Take Badlands Loop Road all the way to Sage Creek Rim Road. Continue about 5 miles to reach Roberts Prairie Dog Town. This former homestead has been converted into one of the largest colonies of black-tailed prairie dogs, making it easy to see these critters up close. The grassy Hay Butte overlook is the perfect place for a picnic lunch.
Star Gazing
Take advantage of zero light pollution in the park and view the nighttime sky, an endless sea of stars. In the summer, rangers point out constellations and provide telescopes during their Night Sky Programs. Visit the new Badlands Observatory in Quinn. Learn about the telescope that was used to discover numerous astroids, view the sun through specially-equipped telescopes or book a Night Sky or Bright Moon tour at night!
Photo courtesy of Bonnie Law
Scenic Drives
Tour Badlands National Park by car. Badlands Loop Road (U.S. Hwy 240), is a scenic byway that cuts directly through the middle of the north unit surrounded by a labyrinth of beautiful landscapes. Sage Creek Rim Road (Route 590) is a gravel road that takes you along the northern rim of the Badlands Wilderness Area. The dirt road hugs the dramatic drop off separating the South Dakota prairie from the alien landscape below. Or avoid the crowds and take the scenic drive from the City of Kadoka, south on Highway 73.
Wrap up your day by traveling back to Wall. Fill up at Badlands Saloon & Grille with a delicious burger and cold beverage. This kid-friendly restaurant will satisfy every taste bud, from fussy little foodies to parents.
Or if you're looking for an adult outing, swing by the Badlands Distillery in Kadoka and browse their large selection of locally-made spirits.
There are tons of options for places to rest your head before your final day of adventure. Family-friendly accommodations, comfortable campgrounds, bed & breakfasts, and motels provide first-class customer service and are eager to host your overnight stays. Or book your stay at Sleepy Hollow Campground, conveniently located in downtown Wall.
Day 3
Wall
The town maintains its small-town charm and western spirit, making it a staple when you visit the Black Hills of South Dakota.
As you approach the city limits from the east on I-90 at Exit 110, you’ll spot a life-size Brontosaurus towering over the interstate, signaling your arrival to Wall. Expect a hearty welcome and small-town friendliness during your time here.
Photo courtesy of Bonnie Law
With just over 800 year-round residents, Wall is well equipped to provide services, dining, and lodging to its 2 million annual visitors.
Shopping on Main Street
Stroll down Wall’s Main Street and take in some of the town’s best shopping and dining. You’ll find boutiques with Black Hills Gold jewelry at Gold Diggers, authentic Native American jewelry at Dakota Sky Stone, Badlands souvenirs and handmade gifts at Badlands Outpost, Broken Arrow Trading Co. and Dakota Mercantile/Dakota Outlet, new and vintage items at Vintage Soule Salon & Boutique as well as shops offering locally made fudge and wines. Harley Davidson even has a shop on Main Street filled with the perfect gift for riders and any motorcycle enthusiasts.
A variety of dining choices dot the streets. Choose among classics like thick steaks and fresh pizza while sipping on an ice-cold beer after a busy day of exploring.
Photo courtesy of Bonnie Law
Wall Drug Store
Main Street is also home to the No. 1 Roadside Attraction in America—Wall Drug Store. What began with a simple idea to offer free ice water to travelers in the 1930s has grown to draw more than 2 million visitors year-round to enjoy delicious food, shopping and free activities. For some family fun, Wall Drug’s backyard is a must during your visit. Ride on the giant Jackalope and then gather your group to snap a picture in front of a roaring T. Rex. Savor home-style dishes, such as hot beef sandwiches and handmade doughnuts, at the Western Art Gallery Restaurant while surrounded by the most extensive Western art collection in the country.
Get Outside
Get some fresh air and take in your surroundings on the city bike path that follows the Badlands wall ridge. Or, stroll through the city park that has a shaded picnic area, playground, free swimming pool and tennis court. Golf enthusiast should make plans to play a round at the Wall Golf Course. The city’s nine-hole public golf course is located southwest of town and is one of the longest nine-hole golf courses in the state.
For dinner, head to Red Rock Restaurant. The owners have a passion for offering local beef, pork, and lamb on their menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner. If the weather is nice, grab a seat on their patio. Their lounge has big-screen TVs, a pool table, darts, foosball and ping pong.
Events
Year-round events in Wall give you tons of reasons to keep coming back. The town comes alive during the annual Wall Celebration in mid-July, with live music, a parade, rodeo, children’s activities and more. Motorcycle riders are invited to the annual Wall Crawl that’s held in conjunction with the Sturgis® Motorcycle Rally™. The town host's Wheelin’ to Wall in late September. This recreational bike ride is perfect for avid and casual cyclists. In early October, celebrate the changing seasons with loads of family fun at the Wall in the Fall Festival.
Photo courtesy of Bonnie Law
