If you’re planning a vacation and would like a quick comparison of Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve 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 Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve.
Table Of Contents
- 1 Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve Overview
- 2 Badlands National Park Overview
- 3 Hiking At National Parks
- 4 Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve Hiking Trails
- 5 Hiking Overview at Badlands National Park
- 6 Wildlife at Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve
- 7 Wildlife at Badlands National Park
- 8 What’s the best time to visit?
Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve Overview
Open 24/7 year round! There are no limitations or reservations to visit, but there is currently limited capacity in the visitor center. The tallest dunes in North America are the centerpiece in a diverse landscape of grasslands, wetlands, forests, alpine lakes, and tundra. Stay on a moonless night to experience this International Dark Sky Park’s starry skies!
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.
Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve Hiking Trails
Great Sand Dunes National Park is home to some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the country. The park offers a variety of trails for all levels of hikers, from easy strolls to challenging treks. The easiest trail is the Dunes View Trail, which is a short, 0.5-mile loop that provides stunning views of the dunes. For a more challenging hike, try the Alkali Flat Trail, a 4-mile loop that takes you through a variety of terrain, including dunes, meadows, and forests. For the most experienced hikers, the Sandwich Peak Trail is a strenuous 11-mile round-trip hike that culminates in stunning views from the summit of Sandwich Peak. No matter what your level of experience, Great Sand Dunes National Park has a hiking trail for you.
Best Hikes At Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve
The ratings below are based on user-submitted data at AllTrails.com
| Hike Name | Elevation Gain | Difficulty Rating | Type | Average Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Upper Sand Creek Lake Trail | 598.932 | 7 | out and back | 4.5 |
| Medano Lake Trail | 697.992 | 3 | out and back | 4 |
| Montville Nature Trail | 26.8224 | 1 | loop | 4 |
| Dunes Overlook Sand Ramp Trail | 80.772 | 3 | out and back | 3.5 |
| Little Medano Creek Trail to Medano Lake | 1079.9064 | 3 | out and back | 4 |
| Wellington Ditch Trail | 47.8536 | 1 | out and back | 4 |
| Dunes Overlook Trail | 143.8656 | 3 | out and back | 4 |
| Pinion Flats Campground Trail | 26.8224 | 1 | loop | 4 |
| High Dune Trail | 191.7192 | 5 | out and back | 5 |
| High and Star Dune Loop | 403.86 | 3 | loop | 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 Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve
Great Sand Dunes National Park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, from small insects to large mammals. The most common animals you’re likely to see in the park are mule deer, elk, pronghorn, and bighorn sheep. Other smaller mammals include squirrels, chipmunks, rabbits, and mice. You may also see reptiles such as lizards and snakes, as well as a variety of birds, including hawks, eagles, and quail. In addition to its many animal residents, Great Sand Dunes National Park is also home to a wide variety of plants, including grasses, shrubs, and trees. The park’s diverse ecosystem provides habitat for many different species of wildlife, making it a great place to explore the natural world.
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.
Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve Weather Considerations
Great Sand Dunes National Park is a great place to visit any time of year, but the best time to go depends on what you’re looking for. If you want to experience the park’s namesake dunes, the best time to visit is during the spring or fall, when the temperatures are cooler and the sand isn’t as hot. However, if you’re more interested in hiking or other outdoor activities, the summer months are generally the best time to go, as there is less chance of rain. Winter can also be a good time to visit Great Sand Dunes National Park, as long as you’re prepared for colder weather and possible snow. So whatever your interests, there’s a perfect time of year for you to explore Great Sand Dunes National Park.
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.