Buck Hill Trail

Buck Hill Trail is a 0.4-mile out-and-back from the roundabout at the end of the spur road in Theodore Roosevelt’s South Unit. A paved path climbs to steps, then a dirt track reaches the open, rocky summit at 2,855 feet. Add it to a Scenic Loop Drive day when you want a brief climb for a big view; allow 15 to 30 minutes. It is short, but steep enough to feel like a hike rather than a flat roadside overlook.

The main path leaves the roundabout on pavement, climbs a short flight of steps and finishes on uneven dirt. The mapped route ends at the summit turnaround and draws the uphill line once; the 0.4 miles includes retracing it to the lot. A separate named dirt path continues farther along the hill, so walking beyond the mapped endpoint adds distance. Take care on the way down, especially in bad weather, when the park warns this trail can be slippery.

From the open top, eroded buttes and shrub-lined valleys spread out in several directions. For a photo, include a strip of pale rock or dry grass in the foreground, then let the Badlands fill the frame; it gives the broad horizon a sense of scale.

Follow the South Unit Scenic Loop Drive about 18 miles into the unit, then take the one-mile Buck Hill spur to the small roundabout, which is the trailhead. A restroom and pullout are marked near mile 19 on the main scenic drive, separate from the hilltop lot. There is no trail reservation or activity fee, though the park entrance fee may apply. Pets are prohibited; leashed service animals are allowed.