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This is a loop trail with a steep descent and steep return ascent and beautiful badlands scenery.


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Map Key

0.8

Miles

1.3

KM

Point to Point

2,769' 844 m

High

2,534' 772 m

Low

174' 53 m

Up

244' 74 m

Down

10%

Avg Grade (5°)

19%

Max Grade (11°)

Dogs No Dogs

Features Spring · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Family Friendly A short trail with great views located conveniently next to the visitor center.

Pets in the park must be restrained at all times, and are not permitted in park buildings, on trails, or in the backcountry. Be aware that dogs can agitate bison and other animals, creating a dangerous situation.

Description

From the Visitors Center, go through the obvious pathway to the north side of the structure to the Painted Canyon Overlook. This is one of the most popular spots for viewing the scenery in the park.

Take the paved Painted Canyon Visitor Center Path to your left, and you'll come to the Painted Canyon Nature Trail trailhead. Follow the trail down as it loops downward into the canyon, then back up. The ascent is steep and the maximum grade is 20% but not rated as difficult because of its short length.

Flora & Fauna

Bison, wild horses, juniper, native prairie grasses.

Contacts

Land Manager: NPS - Theodore Roosevelt

Shared By:

Karen Ryberg

Trail Ratings

  3.3 from 8 votes

#19

in South Unit

#24971

Overall
  3.3 from 8 votes
5 Star
13%
4 Star
25%
3 Star
38%
2 Star
25%
1 Star
0%
Trail Rankings

#19

in South Unit

#65

in North Dakota

#24,971

Overall
2 Views Last Month
323 Since May 25, 2017
Intermediate Intermediate

14%
14%
57%
14%
0%
0%

Photos

There are great panoramic views along the trail that give a sense of the beauty in the area.
Aug 26, 2023 near Medora, ND
Cactus can be found along the trail, so watch your step.
Aug 26, 2023 near Medora, ND
You can really see how erosion shapes the countryside.
Aug 26, 2023 near Medora, ND
Hiking down into the Canyon allows you to get up close with the formations that make Painted Canyon famous.
Aug 26, 2023 near Medora, ND

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Check-Ins

Sep 19, 2023
Ron Dianne Majerus
1.1mi
Jul 24, 2023
David Hitchcock
Jul 3, 2023
Paul Niziolek
We saw a rattlesnake cross the trail.
Sep 29, 2021
Connor Sandry
0.8mi — 0h 45m
Jun 27, 2020
Robert Bires
Sep 14, 2019
Gina G
Jul 17, 2019
Caroline T
Jul 12, 2019
Logan Shaver
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