Jones/Lower Talkington/Lower Paddock Loop

Overview

This is one of the South Unit’s marquee circuits: an 11.4-mile loop that links Jones Creek, Lower Talkington, a short Badlands Spur connector, and Lower Paddock Creek. Plan on 6–8 hours, carry all your water, and expect full exposure. The experience is classic badlands—open prairie, layered buttes, creek bottoms, and abundant wildlife—without technical terrain, but the distance, sun, and occasional mud make it feel **moderate to strenuous**.

Route snapshot

Most hikers start from the Peaceful Valley Ranch parking area. Head out via the CCC/Jones Creek side, turn onto Lower Talkington, use the Badlands Spur near the park road, then close the loop on Lower Paddock Creek back toward the ranch. It’s mostly dirt singletrack with a short gravel segment near the end, plus a few creekbed/wash crossings along Lower Paddock. The loop can be hiked in either direction.

What you’ll see

You’ll traverse classic badlands strata—sandstone, siltstone, mudstone, and clay—across broad views and photogenic formations. Wildlife is a major draw: bison are common, and sightings of wild horses, mule deer, white-tailed deer, and hawks are frequent. Several stretches pass right through prairie dog towns, which adds personality (and chatter) to the hike.

Trail character and navigation

The route is generally well-used, but navigation can be tricky where bison have braided paths. Trails are marked by simple wooden posts, and some can be snapped off by bison; use the next visible post as your beacon and carry a map/GPS. Expect very little shade and no reliable water sources. After rain, mud can be calf-deep in places—especially on Lower Talkington and Lower Paddock—and creekbed climbs can turn slick. Some segments get overgrown; long pants help. Insects can be pesky in the creek corridors.

Best time to hike

It’s open year-round and pretty in any season, but the exposure and lack of water make cooler weather the sweet spot. On warm days, start early. Avoid or be ready to turn back after recent rain—mud can stall progress and make sections impassable. Crowds are moderate overall; despite the loop’s popularity, you can find solitude on Lower Paddock and Lower Talkington depending on timing.

Tips and etiquette

• Bring ample water and full sun protection; there’s no dependable water on route.
• Download an offline GPS track and pick up the park’s trail map at the Visitor Center before you go.
• Wear sturdy shoes with good grip; consider long pants and insect repellent.
• Yield to horseback riders, keep at least 25 yards from wildlife, and be prepared to reroute if animals are on the trail.
• Pets are not allowed on this loop.

If the full loop feels like too much, sample the character by hiking out-and-back sections of Lower Paddock Creek or Lower Talkington—same scenery, less commitment.