9 days in Badlands National Park Itinerary

Although Badlands National Park's name might not be the most inviting, its landscape of pinnacles, eroded buttes, spires, and an expansive, pristine mixed-grass prairie remain enticing.

Your inner history buff will appreciate South Dakota's Original 1880 Town and Wounded Knee Massacre Monument. Get in touch with nature at Loop Road and Big Badlands Overlook. Get out of town with these interesting Badlands National Park side-trips: Lacreek National Wildlife Refuge (in Martin), Oglala Lakota College Historical Center (in Kyle) and Hurley Butte Horseback Riding (in Interior). Spend the 7th (Mon) exploring nature at Badlands National Park. There's still lots to do: take in the dramatic natural features at Badlands Wall, trek along Castle Trail, explore the wealth of natural beauty at Panorama Point Overlook, and see the interesting displays at Armed Forces Display & Gifts.

To see other places to visit, maps, traveler tips, and tourist information, use the Badlands National Park attractions planner.

Expect a daytime high around 81°F in September, and nighttime lows around 49°F.