The Notch Trail - Badlands, SD

That same weekend we hiked Little Devils Tower in the Black Hills, we also made a quick trip to Kam's hometown to pick up a car his parents are loaning us. While we were in the area, we though "Why not take a little hike in the Badlands?" So that's what we did.

If you have never been to the Badlands in South Dakota, I highly suggest you make it a priority.

It is a surreal place to visit.

Even though I grew up driving through this place, I still feel like I am on a different planet.

Wandering on the moon 

-or Mars-

or something.

 The trail we chose to hike is called The Notch Trail. 

It takes about an hour to 1.5 hours total.

It is a fairly easy trail, with one part that you have to climb a wooden ladder/stairs. (see below)

 Not that bad.

At the end of the trail, before you turn back, there are some "notches" 

where you can look out at a beautiful view.

 We spent some extra time at the top to have a small picnic

& dream big dreams

& reflect on our adventurous marriage

If you want to hike the Notch Trail drive on I-90 in South Dakota & take exit 131 (the Interior exit) & drive on Highway 377 towards the Northeast Entrance to the Park. After you pay to enter the Park, you will see a parking lot with several different trailheads. Doors & Windows is another hiking option, but on the far side is the beginning of the Notch Trail.