Badlands: The Window Trail

Badlands: The Window Trail

The Window Trail at the Badlands National Park is a short and easy hike that has a huge payoff. The trail can be found in the same large parking lot with the more challenging Notch and Door trails. The Window should be great for all skill levels and give similar views to the other two more challenging trails.

The Hike

There really isn’t too much to The Window Hike. It is just a third of a mile roundtrip and traverses down a wooded walkway. The easy hike is not an indication of the amazing views that surround the short trail. As you walk down the path, either side have walls of rock that are as unique as they are beautiful.

The end of the hike, roughly a tenth of a mile from the parking lot, opens up like a giant picture window. There are a couple of benches and fencing to enjoy the amazing views of a deep canyon with tall rock formations rising from the floor. It is such a stunning view and really surprising for such a short trail.

The Window was one of those views that sort of took my breath away. It was so unexpectedly grand. I stood there for a lot longer than I thought just enjoying the amazing views. These are views that I expect after a long, arduous hike, so it was really special to see them after just a short walk from the car.

Accessible Views

One of my favorite parts of the Window Trail is that it is a very accessible trail that includes some really great views. This allows so many more people to enjoy the trail. The trail on a wooden pathway that leads all the way to two benches at the viewing spot. This boardwalk opens up this trail to more parents with kids in strollers, people with mobility issues or perhaps anyone who just doesn’t have a long hike in them. Having some benches at the end also allows people to take a break if needed at the view and really enjoy it.

Unlike some accessible trails, the Window actually does have a really great view at the end of the trail. The Window really is like a giant picture window showing the best view of the rock formations of the area. No matter your skill level, you get the same amazing view which is great!

As short hikes go, The Window really does have some of the best bang for the buck around. The landscape is so unique and so big on such a short hike. It is really amazing and worth the short trip down the path.

Video of the Badlands Window Trail

I have put this time-lapse video together of the Window Trail hike so other hikers can get a feel of what the hike is like. If you enjoy this video make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel. It is free to subscribe and you will get the latest outdoor content.

Distance and Elevation

If you don’t have the AllTrails app you might want to check it out, I really love mine. It records your progress and is a great way to search for hikes that are nearby and gives you difficulty measurements. According to AllTrails today’s hike was around 0.3 miles and had a total elevation gain of about 20 feet including undulations. That put the high point at around 2659 feet. I was also moving for a total 7 minutes.

I am a Pro member of AllTrails and love it. If you are interested in the platform, please consider using my affiliate link for AllTrails. It gives me a small commission with no extra cost to you.

Effort

The Window Trail at the Badland is about as easy as they come. Roundtrip, it is only about a third of the mile and the entire trail is a boarded walkway making the terrain very easy. I think this would be excellent for all skill and physical abilities and even accessible for those with mobility concerns.

Terrain

The Window Trail is wood walkway that goes from the parking lot all the way to the end benches of this path. It should be accessible for nearly all. One thing to keep in mind is that this trail is completely exposed to the elements with no shade or cover. You will want to have sun protection and wind/rain protection for the hike.

Access to the Window Trail at Badlands National Park

The Window Trail is found within Badlands National Park. It is the first designed trail after the welcome center coming in from the Interior side of the park. There is an entrance fee for the park or you can use an annual parks pass. Check here for more information on park fees.

Wrapping up the Badlands: Window Trail

What a great short hike with a big payoff! I really enjoyed the Window Trail at the Badlands. It was one of those hikes where I wasn’t expecting much. Then I was completely floored by the view. I especially appreciated that this hike should be accessible to so many people because of the short distance and pathway. This is a great hike that nobody should skip as it will only take a few minutes and will definitely be worth it!

I have added this hike and all of my hikes to the interactive map page you can find here. If you have any suggestions for hikes or comments feel free to email me at fatmanlittletrails@gmail.com or you can follow me on any of the below social media platforms. Happy Hiking!

Gallery of the Badlands: Window Trail