Mike Auney Trail

Overview

This is a lightly traveled, moderately challenging out-and-back across classic badlands country with a river crossing right in the middle. Expect open prairie, eroded clay hills, big sky, and real solitude. Most hikers track about 5.9 miles total with ~700–750 feet of gain; shorter turnarounds can make it roughly 4.7 miles total with ~500 feet of gain. Plan on 2–3 hours depending on pace and river conditions.

Route

The trail links Roundup Horse Camp on the east side of the Little Missouri to the Maah Daah Hey plateau to the west. From the grassy highlands, it drops roughly 470 feet to the river, fords (no bridge), then climbs about 150 feet to reach the opposite side. Reverse it the same way. The tread can be faint on the plateau—follow posts and stay alert where the trail skirts badlands slopes.

Conditions and hazards

You must ford the Little Missouri. Depth and speed vary with season and recent weather; late summer can be knee‑deep, but high flows make it unsafe. Bring poles and footwear you don’t mind soaking, and check conditions with rangers before you commit. After rain, the clay turns to “gumbo” that sticks to boots and makes travel slow. Bison often use the path when it’s muddy, leaving rough, rutted sections. A past hillside slump near the final stretch has made route‑finding confusing—carry an offline map and mind the posts. There’s very little shade, so sun protection and plenty of water are essential.

Access and parking

Most hikers start from Roundup Horse Camp via East River Road. Note the gate to the horse camp road is sometimes closed except for group reservations; if closed, you’ll add about 1.1 miles of road walking to reach the trailhead. Parking is limited, and standard park entry fees apply.

Wildlife and etiquette

Bison and pronghorn roam these hills, and you may also spot prairie dogs and wild turkey. Give wildlife a wide berth and yield to horses near the horse camp. Pets aren’t allowed on park trails.

Best time to hike

Spring through fall is best. Aim for cool mornings or late afternoons for softer light and easier temperatures. Avoid periods after heavy rain or during spring runoff when the river may be high and the clay turns slick. Weekdays see very little traffic any time of year.

Is it for you?

If you’re after a quiet, scenic connector with a bit of adventure, this is a great pick—especially if you want to link the Maah Daah Hey with Roundup Horse Camp for a creative out‑and‑back or shuttle. If you’d rather skip a cold river ford and potential mud, consider other nearby plateau routes and loops that stay dry.