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Castle Trail
On the longest trail in Badlands you'll weave through spire mazes, buttes, and fins surrounded by classic open prairie.
Plan Around Castle Trail
A good stop is not just something to read about. Once it belongs on the day, move into a saved trip and build the route around it.
Use this detail page to confirm that the stop is worth it, then carry that decision into a trip draft while the park context is still fresh.
Castle Trail Details
On the longest trails (10 miles roundtrip) in Badlands you'll weave through spire mazes, buttes, and fins surrounded by classic open prairie. The trail may be accessed on the east or west end of the park from Badlands Loop Road. The eastern trailhead begins at the Window and Door Trail parking area, while the west trailhead may be found at the beginning of the Fossil Exhibit Trail parking area. Restrooms can be found at the Window and Door end of the trail.
Difficulty
Moderate
Distance
10 miles
Estimated time
4.5 hours
Region
N/A
Nearby Parks Around Castle Trail
Compare nearby parks around Castle Trail when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.
Nearby Points of Interest Around Castle Trail
Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Castle Trail while the map context is still fresh.
0.0 mi away
Fossil Exhibit Trail
A hike where you'll see classic Badlands formations. A must see for fossil enthusiasts.
1.8 mi away
Medicine Root Loop
The Medicine Root Loop makes for a moderate day hike over rolling hills and prairies.
1.8 mi away
Saddle Pass
With a view over the White River Valley, Saddle Pass is a difficult yet worthwhile hike.
2.7 mi away
Bigfoot Pass Overlook
The Bigfoot Pass Overlook is on the north side of Badlands Loop Road.
3.3 mi away
Cedar Pass Campground Amphitheater
The Night Sky Program at the Cedar Pass Campground Amphitheater offers visitors a spectacular look at the universe Friday through Monday nights.
