Badlands National Park: Pinnacles Overlook
Although short, this popular 0.2-mile trail to Pinnacles Overlook offers big views of Badlands National Park's iconic rock formations.
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It’s easy to squeeze this short, 0.2-mile hike to Pinnacles Overlook into your Badlands National Park trip. From the large parking area just 8 miles south of Wall, take in dramatic views of rocky pinnacles that extend to the southwest. Next, descend a set of wooden steps that lead to a broad ledge overlooking the Badlands formations. At the bottom of the stairs, bear left at a Y-junction marked by a “Beware of Rattlesnakes” sign. Follow the path around the ledge to a fenced overlook. From this prime vantage point, you’ll find more spectacular views of rock formations and distant grasslands. When you’re ready, climb the stairs to return to the parking area.
MORE PARK INFO: Badlands National Park, (605) 433-5361; nps.gov/badl/.
-Mapped by Kim Phillips
Trail Facts
- Distance: 0.3
Waypoints
PIN001
Location: 43.8696182, -102.2334346
From the large parking area at the Pinnacles Overlook, head toward the set of wooden stairs.
PIN002
Location: 43.8695131, -102.2333193
Descend the stairs that lead to a broad ledge overlooking a sea of rocky pinnacles.
PIN003
Location: 43.8692559, -102.2335446
Bear left at Y-junction for a short loop.
PIN004
Location: 43.8692655, -102.2343493
Turn left to reach an overlook with an interpretive sign.
PIN005
Location: 43.8692617, -102.2347006
From this prime vantage point, you’ll find more spectacular views of Badlands formations and distant grasslands. Return to Waypoint 4 and continue straight toward the stairs and parking area.
Badlands Formations
Location: 43.8692694, -102.2346175
View from Parking Area
Location: 43.8696175, -102.2334051
Stairs
Location: 43.8695208, -102.2332603
Beware of Rattlesnakes
Location: 43.8692617, -102.2334909
Badlands Formations
Location: 43.8691302, -102.2335124
Badlands Formations
Location: 43.8690722, -102.2340542
Badlands Formations
Location: 43.8692694, -102.2344834
Badlands Formations
Location: 43.8692694, -102.2345531
Interpretive Sign at Pinnacles Overlook
Location: 43.8692655, -102.2346604
