Painted Canyon Overlook

This roadside overlook on I-94 gives you the classic badlands money shot — layered red and tan buttes stretching to the horizon under that endless Dakota sky. Roosevelt called this landscape “grim fairyland,” and you’ll understand why when the late afternoon light sets the whole canyon on fire. The visitor center has clean restrooms, water, and exhibits about Roosevelt’s ranching days, plus a decent bookstore.

Gets crowded with RVs and tour buses during peak summer months, especially around sunrise and sunset. The overlook itself is paved and accessible, but walk a hundred yards west along the rim trail for some solitude. Wind can be brutal here — hold onto your hat and keep the truck doors closed.

Roosevelt's favorite badlands vista.