Trail Run Project Logo

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


Your Rating: Rating Rating Rating Rating Rating      Clear Rating
Your Difficulty:
Your Favorites: Add To-Do · Your List
Zoom in to see details
Map Key

0.8

Miles

1.3

KM

77%

Runnable

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

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

#18

in South Unit

#24608

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

#18

in South Unit

#64

in North Dakota

#24,608

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

0 Comments

Weather


Current Trail Conditions

Unknown
Add Your Check-In

Check-Ins

none

Join the Community

Create your FREE account today!
Already have an account? Login to close this notice.

Get Started.