Buffalo Gap National Grassland Mauvaises Terres Loop
Unmarked grassland circuit for serious navigators
This unmarked loop threads through Buffalo Gap National Grassland’s roughest section, where French trappers first called these eroded hills ‘mauvaises terres’ — bad lands. The route follows old ranch roads and two-track cattle paths across mixed-grass prairie punctuated by sharp-walled canyons and fossil-rich formations. Mile 22 brings you to Sheep Mountain Table, a flat-topped butte offering panoramic views of the White River valley and distant Black Hills on clear days.
Difficult navigation requiring GPS and paper maps — many intersections are unmarked and cattle trails can lead you miles off course. Stock 4WD handles most sections, but deep sand pockets and steep canyon descents demand careful line choice. Spring brings mud and impassable creek crossings; late summer through fall offers the most reliable conditions. No services for 60+ miles in any direction. The payoff is absolute solitude in one of America’s most underrated grassland ecosystems, where pronghorn and prairie dogs still rule the range.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Difficult |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Backcountry |
| Surface | Dirt |
| Features | Camping, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 35 mi / 56.3 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 2850 ft |
| Best season | August-October |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock 4WD |
| Nearest town | Interior, SD |
| Land manager | U.S. Forest Service |
| 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 4WD handle this trail?
Yes, but high clearance is essential for rocky washes and deep ruts. Stock 4WD is the minimum; lifted rigs fare better on the rougher sections.
Is the trail accessible in winter?
No, avoid winter completely due to snow drifts and impassable conditions. August through October offers the most reliable access and weather.
Do I need permits to run this grassland loop?
No permits required, but respect private land boundaries and stick to designated routes. This is National Grassland, not a national park.
What's the hardest part of this trail?
Navigation is the biggest challenge - many roads are unmarked and GPS can be unreliable. The rocky creek crossings and steep climbs out of washes are also technical.
Where can I camp and is there water available?
Dispersed camping is allowed throughout the grasslands, but bring all your water - no reliable sources exist on the loop. Cell service is nonexistent for emergencies.