Pinnacles Overlook, Badlands N.P.

This is a national park--follow the rules. Climbing on the buttes can cause erosion. If you find a fossil leave it where it is, take a photo, and tell a Park Ranger what you have uncovered. Finally, keep a safe distance from wildlife—the Park recommends 100 feet.

Badlands N.P. is known for its geologic deposits. The Pinnacles Overlook will give you a great view of the sculpted soil layers and the distant grasslands. The Pinnacles viewpoint, one of the most visited, is the highest elevation in the northern section of the Park.

The spot is a favorite for Bighorn sheep and their lambs (late April to early May). You may also see bison, mule deer and pronghorns in the area. On clear days you can see the Black Hills in the distance.

The best time to visit is Spring and Fall. May and June are the best months for flowers. The area can be extremely hot during Summer and snow and subfreezing temperatures are normal in Winter. It can be busy during the first part of August as bikers from across the country head to the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally held just an hour away.

• Know the best times, seasons & shooting conditions
• Detailed directions - maps, co-ordinates and directions
• Know how to get there - where to park or how to reach there using public transport
• Browse inspirational photos and learn how they were taken - see the EXIF details
• Bookmark your favourite spots for future reference
• Know exactly when to shoot for beautiful photographs - sunrise, sunset, blue hour and astrophotography
• Detailed, 7-day weather forecast at this location
• Share your images with like-minded travel photographers

Essential Information

Web links

https://www.nps.gov/places/pinnacles-overlook.htm