Notch Trail
4.8(655)google
GeologyHikingOutdoor
Overview
The Notch Trail is one of the most exciting, adventurous, and visually spectacular short hiking routes within Badlands National Park. The trail winds through a rugged, narrow canyon before challenging hikers to climb a famous, hand-woven log cable ladder up a steep cliff face. After conquering the physical climb, the path leads along a narrow ledge to the spectacular 'Notch' overlook, rewarding adventurers with a stunning, panoramic view of the vast White River Valley and distant prairie lands.
Practical Info
Every dayOpen 24 hours
Suggested Duration1-2 hours
Best TimeLate May through October provides the optimal seasonal climate to tackle this thrilling rugged trail (winter ice transforms the ledge shelves into extreme hazards). Setting out early by 6:00 AM is highly recommended; this off-peak block spares you from blistering midday sun rays reflecting off the barren rocks while ensuring you scale the famous, steep cable-and-log ladder in complete solitude before heavy pedestrian queues jam the ropes.
Getting ThereThe trailhead originates from the massive shared Door-and-Window parking fields along the eastern segment of the Badlands Loop Road (SD-240), close to the Ben Reifel Visitor Center. Self-drivers use the expansive, paved free public day-use lot wrapping the trailhead kiosk. The hike demands a rigorous 1.5-mile round-trip trek; ensure you carry ample hydration as no mass transit or roadside vendors exist here.
Travel Tips
- The mid-trail section features a steep, unstable log ladder suspended by steel cables. It is strictly contraindicated for anyone with vertigo, unsupportive footwear, or poor upper-body grip; wet timber triggers instant closure.
- The trail is an unshaded canyon furnace where temperatures routinely exceed 100°F (38°C). Hiking must be initiated before 8:00 AM or near dusk; packing a minimum of 2 liters of water per person is mandatory.
- Post-ladder routing demands traversing narrow, unshielded single-track ledges high above canyon floors. Flash rain converts this mudstone track into grease; immediate structural retreat to the parking lot is required if storm cells build.
Reviews
Positive
- The visual impact is outstanding! The trail weaves through the rugged chalk badlands, culminating at the 'Notch' window which opens up to a truly epic, panoramic view of the White River Valley.
- Climbing the iconic log rope ladder is a thrilling adventure, making this the most fun, engaging, and rewarding hike in the entire Badlands National Park.
- Directional trail markers are highly visible at crucial climbing junctures, and the NPS-installed handholds are robust, ensuring great safety for adventurers.
- Located in the heart of the park, despite its immense popularity, it beautifully preserves a pristine wilderness vibe, letting you feel the raw power and solitude of Western nature.
Heads up
- The sun exposure is brutal with absolutely zero shade or canopies; summer ground temperatures easily crack 100°F, creating a high heatstroke risk, and restrooms are only at the trailhead lot.
- The log rope ladder is a complete nightmare for anyone with vertigo or bad knees; the narrow bottleneck clogs easily during peak hours, and waiting in line kills the pacing.
- The latter section requires walking along a narrow, sheer cliff ledge; if it rains or has just rained, the muddy rock formations become incredibly slick, posing a serious slip hazard.
- The designated parking lot is tiny and shared with the neighboring Window and Door trails; arriving after 9 AM usually means zero spots, leading to chaotic roadside parallel parking.