Theodore Roosevelt National Park Scenic Loop Drive
Badlands loop where wild horses still roam
Theodore Roosevelt’s 36-mile scenic loop drive through the South Unit showcases the badlands that shaped a future president’s conservation philosophy. The paved route winds through multi-colored canyon walls, past prairie dog towns that stretch for miles, and around the Painted Canyon overlook where bison herds graze 600 feet below. Wild horses – descendants of ranch stock from the early 1900s – still roam freely here, and you’ll often spot them silhouetted against the layered rock formations that glow amber at sunrise.
Standard passenger car accessible on paved roads, though high winds can make driving challenging for RVs and trailers. Park entry fee required – $30 per vehicle valid for seven days. Spring through fall offers the best weather, but winter driving provides dramatic snow-covered badlands views when roads remain open. The real payoff comes at sunset when the canyon walls light up in shades that make the painted desert look bland. This isn’t technical driving, but it’s classic American overland scenery that reminds you why we protect these places.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Easy |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Scenic Drive |
| Surface | Gravel |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 36 mi / 57.9 km |
| Duration | Full day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 2850 ft |
| Best season | April-October |
| Minimum vehicle | Any vehicle |
| Nearest town | Medora, North Dakota |
| Land manager | National Park Service |
| Permit required | Yes |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | No |
| Official sources | nps.gov |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Do I need a 4x4 or high clearance to drive this loop?
No. The South Unit Scenic Loop is a maintained gravel road — any passenger car can handle it under normal conditions. A truck or SUV is just more comfortable on the washboard sections.
What months is the loop open and does snow close it?
April through October is the reliable window. Winter access is unpredictable — heavy snow or ice can close sections without much warning, and NPS doesn't always clear it fast. Check road status at nps.gov/thro before you go if you're visiting outside peak season.
Is there an entrance fee and do I need to reserve a permit in advance?
Yes, there's a standard NPS entrance fee — $30 per vehicle as of 2024, valid for 7 days. No advance permit is needed to drive the loop itself, but Cottonwood Campground inside the park requires a reservation through recreation.gov during peak months.
What's the hardest or most technical part of the drive?
There isn't one — this is a scenic loop, not a technical trail. The gravel can get rough and corrugated in spots, and the road narrows on canyon rims where you'll want to pay attention, but nothing will challenge your driving skills.
Is there any cell service on the loop and how far is the nearest gas?
Cell service is spotty to nonexistent through most of the park interior. Fill up in Medora before you enter — it's the only town at the park entrance and your last reliable fuel stop before the loop.
Trail track
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