Sully Creek State Park Backcountry Trail
Roosevelt's badlands hunting route
Sully Creek cuts through some of the most isolated badlands country in western North Dakota, following Theodore Roosevelt’s old hunting routes through fossil-rich formations and prairie dog towns. The trail winds past the historic Sully Creek Post Office site and Bullion Butte, where Roosevelt himself once camped, offering glimpses of petrified wood scattered across eroded bentonite hills that glow orange at sunset.
This moderate route requires high-clearance 4WD for creek crossings and loose shale sections, especially after rain when the bentonite turns slick as grease. Best tackled April through October when water levels are manageable and the rattlesnakes are predictable. Pack extra water and fuel—cell service dies past the park boundary, and the nearest gas is 40 miles back in Medora. You’ll earn solitude few North Dakota overlanders ever see, plus some of the state’s best fossil hunting.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Backcountry |
| Surface | Mixed |
| Features | Historic, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 18 mi / 29 km |
| Duration | 1 day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 2650 ft |
| Best season | April-October |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | Medora, ND |
| Land manager | North Dakota Parks & Recreation |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Jeep Wrangler handle this trail?
Yes, a stock Wrangler with high clearance will do fine. The mixed surface has some rocky sections and creek crossings, but nothing requiring major modifications.
Is the trail accessible in winter?
No, North Dakota Parks closes backcountry trails November through March due to snow and mud conditions. Best window is April through October.
Do I need a permit to drive the Sully Creek backcountry trail?
You need a valid North Dakota state parks vehicle permit, available at the entrance or online. No special backcountry permit required.
What's the hardest part of this trail?
The creek crossings can be tricky after heavy rain, with muddy approaches and rocky bottoms. Scout on foot first if water looks high.
Can I camp along the trail overnight?
Yes, dispersed camping is allowed in designated backcountry areas. No facilities, so bring everything you need including water - there's zero cell service out there.