South Unit Nature Trails

Wind Cayon; South Unit, TRNP.

NPS Photo

Wind Canyon

0.4 mile (0.6 km); loop – gravel and dirt surface with stairs

Enjoy hiking this nature trail alongside a wind-sculpted canyon as you climb to the best view of the Little Missouri River the South Unit has to offer. Another ranger favorite for sunsets!

 

Ridgeline; South Unit, TRNP.

NPS Photo/L. Thomas

Ridgeline

0.6 mile (1 km); loop – rolling terrain, steep stairs

The trail winds through juniper forest and stretches out across a high, grassy ridge, where fantastic views abound. Explore the badlands in more detail; borrow a bro-chure at the trailhead or download the Ridgeline Trail brochure.

 

Coal Vein; South Unit, TRNP.

NPS Photo/J. Gumke

Coal Vein

0.8 mile (1.3 km); loop – steep stairs

Though the land has healed from a former underground coal vein fire, there are still signs of the area’s fiery past. Look for them along the nature trail. Borrow a brochure at the trailhead or download the Coal Vein Trail Brochure.

 

Painted Canyon; South Unit, TRNP.

NPS Photo/L. Thomas

Painted Canyon

0.9 mile (1.4 km); loop – steep grade, stairs

Roosevelt said the badlands seemed “hardly properly to belong to this earth.” See why as you discover unusual geologic formations along the trail. The trail climbs steeply on its way out of the badlands. Carry extra water!