Medicine Root Loop
Prairie isolation where the sky goes on forever
The Medicine Root Loop cuts a 25-mile arc through some of the most desolate country in Buffalo Gap National Grassland, starting from Highway 44 west of Scenic and looping back through mixed-grass prairie that looks unchanged since the buffalo days. This isn’t technical driving — it’s about isolation and endurance on rutted two-track that can turn to gumbo when wet. The highlight is Medicine Root Creek crossing, where a small prairie stream cuts through chalk bluffs and creates the only shade for miles.
Stock high-clearance vehicles handle this easily in dry conditions, but avoid entirely when wet — the Pierre shale turns into axle-deep slick clay that’ll strand you for days. No permits needed, but inform someone of your plans since you’re genuinely remote out here. Best season is late spring through fall when roads are firm. Bring extra water, fuel, and a way to communicate — this is big sky country where your problems become very small and very personal very quickly.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Easy |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Dirt |
| Features | Camping, Remote, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 25 mi / 40.2 km |
| Duration | 1 day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 2800 ft |
| Best season | May-October |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock high-clearance 2WD |
| Nearest town | Scenic, South Dakota |
| Land manager | US Forest Service |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Tacoma or F-150 handle Medicine Root Loop?
Yes, any stock high-clearance 2WD vehicle can complete this trail. The dirt surface is well-maintained and the 600ft elevation gain is gradual.
Is Medicine Root Loop accessible in winter?
Not recommended from November through April due to snow, ice, and potential road closures. Best season is May through October when conditions are dry and stable.
Do I need permits or pay fees for Medicine Root Loop?
No permits or fees required. This is public land managed by the US Forest Service with open access for recreational use.
What's the most challenging part of this easy-rated trail?
The water crossings are the only technical feature, but they're typically shallow seasonal streams that pose no real challenge for high-clearance vehicles.
Can I get cell service or should I bring emergency communication?
Zero cell service throughout the entire 25-mile loop. Bring a satellite communicator or PLB for emergencies since you'll be truly isolated in the grasslands.