Drive a GPS-activated audio tour through Badlands National Park and learn geology, Lakota history, and fossil lore as the narrator guides you to overlooks, boardwalks and short hikes. Perfect for flexible, family-friendly exploration with offline maps and turn-by-turn directions.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You pull off Highway 240 into a wide, wind-scraped bowl of layered rock and open sky. The engine is off, headphones on, and a narrator's voice begins to place the spires, slopes, and prairie in geological time — while the light slides over bands of ochre and gray.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
11–12 hours (self-paced full loop)
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels for the driving tour; some short hikes are moderate and require steady footing.
Wildlife
History
The Badlands preserve both deep geologic history—layers of ancient seas and ash—and human history, from Oglala Lakota trails to 20th-century homesteads and Cold War missile sites.
Conservation
Stay on trails and boardwalks to protect fragile soils and fossil sites; pack out trash and avoid disturbing wildlife or cultural artifacts.
Reserve your spot on the Badlands National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Download before you go
Redeem and download the tour on Wi‑Fi to use the offline map and GPS narration without cellular service.
Carry at least 2 liters of water
Park stops are exposed with limited services—hydrate before hikes and between overlooks.
Keep distance from wildlife
Bison, bighorn sheep and prairie dogs are unpredictable—observe from a vehicle or marked viewpoints.
Mind sun and wind exposure
Bring sun protection and layered clothing—temperatures and wind can change rapidly at viewpoints.
Water bottle (2L+)
Essential for hot, exposed stretches between stops.
summer
Phone mount & charger
Keeps the app visible and battery topped while driving.
Sturdy walking shoes
Needed for short, uneven hikes like the Notch Trail and boardwalk approaches.
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
Protects against strong sun on open overlooks and trails.
summer