The Notch Trail
The Notch Trail in Badlands National Park in South Dakota is a very neat trail and not for the faint of heart. You get to climb a rope ladder - very scary for some people and the trail is close to cliffs at times. The trail is 1.3 miles out and back round trip, and it ends at a window that faces to the south and gives you a view of the valley below. The hike is a must for those who like a little adventure. This is a fun hike for kids, but you need to use caution.
Beginning of the trail - nice and flat.
Always beware.
Don’t see much color on this trail.
Ladder in the beginning is not too bad.
Small kids can climb it.
You then have to hold on and climb.
Trail on top is close to cliffs so you really need to watch your kids.
Dangerous section rerouted.
End of the trail - looking southeast.
End of trail - looking southwest.
We go back to the main trail and then start to explore some.
Find this other opening and great view.
Going back down though was a little slippery and scary.
Heading back to the main trail.
Can see the ladder in the background.
Hiking along the top of the Notch Trail in the Badlands - Can get very hot in the summer.
Back down we go.
Cool rest areas. Kids love hiding in the rocks.
Local wildlife.
Bunny getting shade.
Rare to see water on the trail.
