• Minuteman Missile National Historic Site - Experience the Cold War era at the Minuteman Missile National Historic Site in South Dakota. Discover a decommissioned launch facility and missile silo. Visit the Launch Control Facility, a former top-secret underground bunker where crews were ready to launch Minuteman II missiles. View an actual missile at the Delta-09 silo, a stark reminder of the nuclear threat of the time. The park preserves this history to enhance understanding of nuclear deterrence’s dangers and significance.
• Oglala Lakota Living History Village - Dive into Lakota culture at the Oglala Lakota Living History Village in South Dakota. Stroll through replicas of tipis and log cabins, learning about the Oglala people’s adaptations on the Pine Ridge Reservation. Local Lakota guides share their rich culture and history. Witness traditional crafts like hide tanning and beadwork. This open-air museum offers a glimpse into the past and an appreciation for the enduring spirit of the Oglala Lakota Nation.
• Prairie Homestead Historic Site - This historic site showcases a preserved sod house built in 1909 by Ed and Alice Brown. Explore their original dugout dwelling and outbuildings, gaining insight into the challenges and triumphs of homesteading life. Encounter farm animals, including rare white prairie dogs and familiar creatures. Dress in period clothing for an engaging, interactive experience. This look into the past highlights the resilience and resourcefulness of early South Dakota settlers.
• Big Badlands Overlook - A short, accessible trail leads to a viewing platform where visitors can admire the dramatic landscape. Layers of colorful rock formations, shaped by wind and erosion, extend into the distance. The eastern wall of the Badlands, known as the “Wall,” dominates the view, showcasing the reddish hues of the Brule Formation. It’s an ideal introduction to the park’s striking beauty, perfect for panoramic photos or simply marveling at the captivating scenery.
• Door Trail - A wheelchair-accessible boardwalk guides visitors on a quarter-mile journey. Pass through a natural opening in the rock formations, known as “The Door.” This scenic passageway reveals a breathtaking vista of the Badlands’ rugged landscape. Beyond the boardwalk, a more challenging, unmarked trail continues for adventurous hikers, offering a closer look at the eroded spires and canyons.
• Notch Trail - Embark on an adventurous hike through the Badlands on the Notch Trail. This 1.5-mile round-trip trek offers more than scenic views. Traverse a canyon and tackle a thrilling wooden ladder section, adding excitement. The “Notch” itself awaits at the end, a dramatic viewpoint overlooking the White River Valley. This moderately challenging trail with uneven terrain and heights might not suit everyone, but the reward is a breathtaking panorama of the Badlands’ rugged beauty.
• Castle Trail - This 5-mile, point-to-point adventure takes hikers past prairies and dramatic rock formations, nicknamed “castles.” Unlike most Badlands trails, it’s relatively flat, suitable for moderate fitness levels. Hike through open fields, marvel at colorful rock formations, and watch for wildlife like bighorn sheep and prairie dogs. Remember, it’s an out-and-back trail, so plan accordingly.
• Window Trailhead - This short, fully accessible path is perfect for all ages and abilities. A wooden boardwalk winds its way for a quarter-mile, leading to a natural opening in the Badlands Wall – the aptly named “Window.” This scenic frame offers a stunning vista of the intricately eroded canyons and layered rock formations stretching into the distance. It’s a perfect way to experience the Badlands’ beauty without a strenuous hike.
• Ben Reifel Visitor Center - The Ben Reifel Visitor Center is the main hub of Badlands National Park. Inside, visitors will find exhibits showcasing the park’s geology, fossils, and cultural history. Watch a park film to get oriented, or chat with rangers for trip planning tips. The center also features a fossil preparation lab (sometimes with a scientist working!), a bookstore, and restrooms. It’s fully accessible and a great place to start a Badlands adventure.
• Fossil Exhibit Trail - While the Fossil Exhibit Trail at Badlands National Park won’t show actual fossils in the ground, it’s a great starting point for learning about the park’s rich paleontology. This short, accessible boardwalk loop features informative displays with replicas of ancient creatures. Walk through geologic time, illustrated by the colorful rock layers, and discover the fascinating fossils found here, from saber-toothed cats to giant mammals. It’s a perfect introduction to the Badlands’ prehistoric past for visitors of all ages.
• Bigfoot Pass Overlook - This easily accessible stop commemorates Chief Spotted Elk (Bigfoot) and his Lakota band who used this route fleeing US troops in 1890. Stand on the viewing platform and soak in the vast expanse of the Badlands, layered rock formations sculpted by wind and time. The overlook serves as a reminder of the area’s human history alongside its natural wonders.
• Panorama Point - This easily accessible viewpoint offers a wide-open vista, perfect for capturing the park’s essence. Imagine a panoramic painting come to life – colorful rock formations, eroded spires, and canyons stretch as far as the eye can see. The landscape unfolds below, revealing the White River Valley in the distance. It’s a breathtaking introduction to the Badlands’ beauty, ideal for photographers or anyone wanting to soak in the park’s grandeur.
• Prairie Wind Overlook - Prairie Wind Overlook offers a serene change of pace. A short boardwalk leads to a viewing platform overlooking a vast expanse of native prairie grass, swaying gently in the wind. This overlook showcases the park’s rare, protected mixed-grass prairie ecosystem, a vital habitat for wildlife. Imagine being transported back in time, surrounded by a sea of green stretching towards the horizon. It’s a peaceful spot for reflection and appreciating the park’s diverse landscapes.
• Burns Basin Overlook - This accessible stop features a short trail and boardwalk leading to a viewing platform. The overlook gets its name from an old homestead nestled in the basin below, once used by sheepherder Wilson Burns. Unfold before you are vast rolling plains stretching towards the Buffalo Gap National Grassland. Keep an eye out for rattlesnakes, grazing bison, or soaring birds of prey. Burns Basin Overlook offers a chance to appreciate the Badlands’ scenic beauty beyond the dramatic spires, showcasing its connection to the wider prairie ecosystem.
• Homestead Overlook - This accessible stop offers a unique perspective. Imagine standing on the edge of the Badlands, gazing out at the labyrinth of colorful rock formations carved by millions of years of erosion. But look closer, and you’ll also see the vast green expanse of the prairie stretching out in the distance. This contrasting view reflects the park’s diverse landscapes and its human history. Homestead Overlook showcases the challenging beauty of the Badlands while hinting at the lives of those who attempted to tame this unforgiving land.
• Yellow Mounds Overlook - Yellow Mounds Overlook stands out for its vibrant hues. This easily accessible spot offers a different perspective on the park’s geology. Unlike the usual reddish spires, here you’ll be greeted by colorful layers of yellow, orange, and beige mounds. Informational signs explain how ancient seas and decaying plants created these unique formations. The overlook provides a clear view for appreciating the contrasting colors and the vastness of the Badlands landscape.
• Conata Picnic Area - Escape the crowds and find a touch of solitude! Nestled near the park’s wilderness area, this remote rest stop offers a scenic break from explorations. Enjoy a picnic lunch at a covered table while surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Badlands. Basic vault toilets are available, but there’s no potable water, so come prepared. The nearby Deer Haven trailhead beckons for those who want to extend their visit with a hike into the peaceful wilderness.
• Sage Creek Loop Trail 23 - Adventure awaits on the Sage Creek Loop hike at Badlands National Park, but be warned – it’s not for the faint of heart. This unmarked, 20+ mile trek winds through the park’s wilderness, following the snaking Sage Creek. Prepare for a challenging journey with uneven terrain, potential for mud, and limited water access. You’ll conquer climbs through juniper forests and marvel at scenic overlooks. The reward? A true Badlands experience, away from the crowds, and a chance to spot wildlife like bison. Remember, this is for experienced backpackers only, with proper navigation skills and supplies essential.
• Deer Haven Trailhead - This unmaintained path, starting at the Conata Picnic Area, is more like a network of game trails. Follow it for 3 miles through rolling plains and grasslands, with the Badlands’ dramatic formations as a backdrop. The trail isn’t marked, so a sense of adventure is helpful. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife and enjoy the serenity of the Badlands wilderness. While there’s no designated campsite, you might find a spot for a unique, backcountry camping experience.
• Cliff Shelf Nature Trail - This 0.5-mile loop offers big rewards despite its ease. Walk along boardwalks and climb a few stairs to reach a viewing platform. Be rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the Badlands’ vastness, colorful rock formations stretching towards the horizon. The trail also delves through a unique juniper forest, a refreshing change from the typical Badlands landscape. It’s a perfect introduction to the park’s beauty, ideal for all ages and fitness levels.
• Ancient Hunters Overlook - This scenic spot isn’t just about views. Imagine looking out over a dense fossil bed – evidence of ancient bison hunters who drove herds over the edge millions of years ago. Informative displays tell the story of these paleo-Indians. While the geologic slump creates a slightly greener area with abundant trees, the rugged landscape reminds you of the Badlands’ harsh beauty. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the park’s prehistoric past and a testament to the ingenuity of early inhabitants.
• Pinnacles Overlook - The highest point in Badlands National Park! This easily accessible stop offers a panoramic vista like no other. Imagine a vast expanse stretching before you – a maze of colorful rock formations, sculpted by wind and time, unfolds towards the distant Black Hills. Keep an eye out for bighorn sheep grazing on the slopes, adding to the dramatic scene. It’s a perfect spot for photographers or anyone wanting to capture the essence of the Badlands in one stunning view.
• Sage Creek Road - This scenic, unpaved route offers a different perspective than the main park roads. Bump along for 12 miles, stopping at several overlooks for stunning views of the Badlands’ vastness. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife – this area is known for its bison herds, pronghorn antelope, and bighorn sheep. You might even spot prairie dogs popping out of their burrows! Unlike the Badlands’ dramatic spires, Sage Creek Rim Road showcases the park’s rolling hills and rich wildlife populations.
• Delta-01 Launch Control Facility - Explore a decommissioned underground bunker where missile launch crews once stood on hair-trigger alert. Tour the facility and see the launch control room with preserved consoles and equipment. Imagine the immense responsibility of the crew who could have fired Minuteman II missiles. This National Park Service site preserves history to help us understand the dangers of nuclear weapons and the importance of peace.
• Wall Drug - Wall Drug Store is more than a store – it’s a roadside legend. Forget fancy malls, this cowboy-themed labyrinth holds everything from souvenirs and snacks to a pharmacy and restaurants. Made famous for its catchy signs promising “free ice water” miles away, it’s a quirky must-stop for travelers. Enjoy a home-style meal, browse Western gifts, and snap a photo with the giant brontosaurus sculpture. It’s a fun and kitschy experience that captures the spirit of South Dakota exploration.

• Take the tour when you want
• Tours NEVER expire
• Freedom to explore at your own pace
• Tour Start is Customizable
• Offline map (no wifi or data needed)
• Tour highlights with activity and restaurant recommendations
• Turn-by-turn directions using GPS
• Hours of audio narration with stories, travel tips and music
• Audio narration that plays automatically as you drive

• Private transportation
• Meals and refreshment
• Entrance Fees
• Delta-01 Launch Control Facility - $12/ adult, $8/ child
• Parking Fees

Experience the stunning scenery of Badlands National Park with our engaging audio tour! Explore rugged cliffs, vibrant canyons, and vast prairies as our guides provide fascinating stories and interesting facts about the park’s distinctive geology, abundant fossil beds, and varied wildlife. Discover the ancient history that formed these remarkable landscapes and the creatures that inhabit this captivating area. Perfect for families, nature lovers, and thrill-seekers, our tour delivers an enjoyable and educational adventure. Just download, connect your headphones, and set off on an unforgettable journey through the awe-inspiring Badlands National Park!

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• Optional Starting Points: • Kadoka, SD • Conata, SD • Interior, SD
• Get Started Easily: • Book Your Tour: Receive a confirmation and easy instructions via email. • Download the App: Follow the simple steps in your email. • Redeem the Tour: Use the redeem code in your email to redeem the tour in the app. • Prepare Ahead: Download the tour using strong Wi-Fi.
• Begin Your Journey: • Select Your Tour: Go to the My Stuff tab in the Shaka Guide app to launch the tour. • Start the Tour: Select the tour starting point and follow the GPS instructions. • Follow Shaka Guide: Stick to the suggested route and speed for the best experience.
• Why Choose Our Audio Tour: • Cost-Efficient: One tour for the entire vehicle—no per-person fees! • Ultimate Flexibility: Start, pause, and resume on your schedule. • Convenience: Use the tour any day, over multiple days if needed.
• Top Features: • Hands-Free: The tour works automatically - GPS-activated stories, directions, and music play as you drive for a seamless experience. • Works Offline: No need for continuous wifi or data. • Reliable Support: Get help via call, chat, or email.
• Private and Personalized: • Crowd-Free: Enjoy a private tour with just your group. • Customizable Stops: Pick the stops you want and skip the ones you don’t!
• The Ultimate Guided Tour: • Detailed Itinerary: Includes travel tips and recommendations. • Engaging Narration: Captivating stories and history.
• What Our Users Say: • “A fantastic way to explore! Easy to use and very informative.” • “Loved the flexibility to stop and go as we pleased. Highly recommend!”

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