If you’re planning a vacation and would like a quick comparison of Canyonlands National Park and Badlands National Park, we’ve got you covered.
We’ll take a look at what they have to offer in terms of hiking and wildlife, plus what the best time of year to visit might be.
Let’s get started with an overview of Canyonlands National Park.
Table Of Contents
Canyonlands National Park Overview
Canyonlands invites you to explore a wilderness of countless canyons and fantastically formed buttes carved by the Colorado River and its tributaries. Rivers divide the park into four districts: Island in the Sky, The Needles, The Maze, and the rivers themselves. These areas share a primitive desert atmosphere, but each offers different opportunities for sightseeing and adventure.
Badlands National Park Overview
Badlands National Park is an incredible natural landscape located in the US state of South Dakota. Founded in 1941, Badlands is known for its sweeping canyons, rolling hills, and dramatic rock formations. The park is renowned for its rich variety of plants and animals, ranging from prickly cactus plants to bighorn sheep. There are also a number of historic sites within Badlands National Park, including Native American settlements and homesteads that exemplify the adventurous spirit of early settlers in the area. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day hiking through scenic vistas or exploring the fascinating history of this iconic national park, Badlands has something for everyone!
Hiking At National Parks
Most national parks have some of the best hiking trails you’ll find anywhere in the US.
If you’re planning to take along your furry friend, double-check the rules before you go – as many of the parks have different rules about bringing animals along with you.
Canyonlands National Park Hiking Trails
Canyonlands National Park is a hiker’s paradise, with plenty of trails to suit all levels of ability. For those who are looking for an easy hike, the Canyon Overlook Trail is a great option. It’s only 0.5 miles long and takes around 30 minutes to complete. The trailhead is located near the Canyonlands Visitor Center, making it easy to find. For those who are looking for a more challenging hike, the Mesa Arch Trail is a great option. It’s 1.2 miles long and takes around 90 minutes to complete. The trailhead is located near the Grand View Point Overlook, making it easy to find. However, be aware that the last part of the hike involves scrambling over rocks, so it’s not suitable for everyone.
Best Hikes At Canyonlands National Park
The ratings below are based on user-submitted data at AllTrails.com
| Hike Name | Elevation Gain | Difficulty Rating | Type | Average Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Confluence Overlook Trail | 409.956 | 3 | loop | 4.5 |
| Maze Overlook Trail | 293.8272 | 3 | out and back | 5 |
| Lost Canyon | 238.9632 | 3 | loop | 4.5 |
| Shafer Canyon Overlook | 13.716 | 1 | out and back | 4.5 |
| Cave Spring Trail | 11.8872 | 3 | loop | 4 |
| Squawflat Trail to Lost Canyon Peekaboo Trail | 453.8472 | 5 | out and back | 4.5 |
| Murphy Trail Loop | 491.9472 | 5 | loop | 4.5 |
| Salt Creek and Horse Canyon OHV Trail | 279.8064 | 3 | out and back | 4.5 |
| Devils Pocket Loop | 511.7592 | 3 | loop | 5 |
| Elephant Hill Trail | 221.8944 | 1 | out and back | 4.5 |
Hiking Overview at Badlands National Park
Badlands National Park is home to some of the best hiking trails in the country. For those looking for an easy hike, the one-mile Notch Trail is a great option. The trailhead is located near the park visitor center, and the trail itself is relatively flat and well-maintained. For those looking for a more challenging hike, the seven-mile Castle Trail is a great option. The trailhead is located near the high point of Badlands Loop Road, and the trail features a number of steep climbs. However, hikers are rewarded with stunning views of Badlands formations along the way.
Top 10 Hiking Trails at Badlands National Park
| Hike Name | Elevation Gain | Difficulty Rating | Type | Average Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sage Creek Loop | 245.9736 | 5 | loop | 4 |
| Sheep Mountain Table Road | 180.7464 | 3 | out and back | 4.5 |
| Notch Trail | 39.9288 | 3 | out and back | 4.5 |
| Castle Trail | 95.7072 | 3 | loop | 4.5 |
| The Door Trail | 10.9728 | 3 | out and back | 4.5 |
| Saddle Pass Trail | 65.8368 | 3 | out and back | 4.5 |
| Medicine Root Loop Trail | 102.7176 | 1 | loop | 4 |
| The Window Trail | 1.8288 | 1 | out and back | 4 |
| Cliff Shelf Nature Trail | 19.812 | 1 | loop | 4 |
| Fossil Exhibit Trail | 3.9624 | 1 | out and back | 3.5 |
Wildlife at Canyonlands National Park
Canyonlands National Park is home to a wide variety of plants and animals. Canyonlands is divided into three major ecosystems: desert, riparian, and canyon. The desert ecosystem is the most widespread, covering 60% of the park. In this arid environment, you can find plants such as cacti and Joshua trees. Animals that call the desert home include lizards, snakes, rabbits, and mice. The riparian ecosystem can be found near rivers and streams. Here you will find cottonwoods and willows as well as animals such as beavers, otters, and fish. The canyon ecosystem is the most diverse, with a variety of plant life including ferns, mosses, and wildflowers. Canyon animals include birds of prey, bats, and small rodents. No matter where you explore in Canyonlands National Park, you are sure to see a wide variety of plants and animals.
Wildlife at Badlands National Park
Badlands National Park is home to a diverse array of plants and animals. The park’s landscape includes prairies, grasslands, and Badlands formations, providing habitat for many different species. Visitors to the park can expect to see bison, pronghorn antelope, bighorn sheep, elk, and mule deer. Badlands National Park is also home to a variety of reptiles, including snakes and lizards. In addition, the park is home to more than 400 species of birds, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers. With such a diverse array of wildlife, Badlands National Park is an excellent place to enjoy the outdoors and observe some of America’s most iconic animals.
What’s the best time to visit?
A lot of times, weather can dictate when it makes the most sense to visit a particular national park.
Plus, depending on the types of activities you’re hoping to take part in, seasonality will be a huge factor in whether those things are even available.
Canyonlands National Park Weather Considerations
Canyonlands National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. The park is known for its stunning views of canyons, red rock formations, and desert landscapes. Canyonlands National Park is located in Utah, and its weather varies greatly depending on the time of year. The best time to visit Canyonlands National Park is during the spring or fall. During these months, the weather is mild and the landscapes are beautiful. However, Canyonlands National Park can be extremely hot during the summer, and winter can bring cold temperatures and snow. As a result, Canyonlands National Park can be a great destination for all types of travelers.
Badlands National Park Weather Considerations
Badlands National Park experiences a wide range of weather conditions throughout the year. Temperatures can vary widely, from below freezing in the winter to over 100 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer. The park also receives a significant amount of rainfall, which can make hiking and camping difficult. As a result, the best time to visit Badlands National Park depends on what activities you want to do. If you’re interested in hiking and camping, the spring months are typically the best time to go, as the weather is milder and there is less chance of rain. However, if you’re simply looking to enjoy the scenery, any time of year can be a good time to visit. No matter when you go, Badlands National Park is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.