Antelope Creek Fossil Trail
Dinosaur fossils in remote Hell Creek badlands
Deep in the Hell Creek Formation country, this technical route follows old paleontologist access roads to active fossil sites where 68-million-year-old dinosaur bones weather out of the canyon walls each season. The trail drops into Antelope Creek drainage through steep, loose shale slopes that challenge even experienced drivers, especially the notorious “Fossil Hill descent” where you’ll need to pick your line carefully. Multiple fossil sites dot the route including confirmed triceratops and hadrosaur locations that university crews still work during summer months.
This is difficult 4WD terrain requiring low-range, good tires, and recovery gear—the bentonite clay becomes soup when wet and those shale climbs are unforgiving. May through September only, and even then check conditions first. No permits for observation but collecting requires permission from landowners. Bring lots of water, fuel, and a full first-aid kit as you’re hours from help. The payoff is walking among exposed dinosaur bones in some of North Dakota’s most remote and scientifically significant badlands.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Difficult |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Mixed |
| Features | Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 12 mi / 19.3 km |
| Duration | 1 day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 2650 ft |
| Best season | May-September |
| Minimum vehicle | Technical 4WD with low-range |
| Nearest town | Marmarth, ND |
| Land manager | Private/BLM mix |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | No |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
What kind of 4x4 do I need for Antelope Creek Fossil Trail?
You need a technical 4WD with low-range transfer case, high ground clearance, and skid plates. Stock vehicles will struggle with the rocky ledges and steep badlands terrain.
Is the trail accessible in winter?
No, winter access is extremely difficult due to snow, ice, and muddy conditions in the badlands. Stick to May through September for safe passage.
Do I need permits to drive this trail and collect fossils?
The trail crosses private and BLM land - check current access permissions. Fossil collection is strictly prohibited without proper paleontological permits.
What's the hardest part of this trail?
The steepest rocky ledges and loose shale sections in the canyon approaches require careful line selection and momentum control. One wrong move can mean body damage or getting stuck.
How much fuel should I carry for this remote area?
Fill up in Marmarth before heading out - it's your last fuel for 50+ miles. Carry extra fuel if exploring other badlands trails since the nearest gas is back in town.