No. Just pay the park entrance fee ($30 per vehicle, valid 7 days) and go.

Boicourt Trail - 0.2mi Easy Hike

Q: Can I take my wheelchair or stroller?

Yes, on the paved section—it's fully accessible. The unpaved extension is not.

Q: How long does this take?

Paved section: 20–30 minutes at a leisurely pace. Add 10–15 minutes for the unpaved extension. Most visitors spend 30–45 minutes total.

Q: Is it shaded? And can I bring my dog?

Zero shade—bring sunscreen and a hat. Dog policies are not specified in park data; check with the visitor center or NPS website.

Q: Should I skip this if the lot is full?

If you want solitude, yes—come back at sunrise or try a weekday. If you just want quick badlands views, circle back later or try nearby pulloffs.

Q: Is the unpaved extension worth it?

Yes. Most visitors stop at the paved end, leaving the unpaved overlook quieter and equally scenic. The extra 10 minutes is worth it if mobility allows.

Distance

0.2 mi

Est. Time

20–30 minutes for the paved section at a leisurely pace; add 10–15 minutes if extending to the unpaved overlook.

Route Type

Out-and-back

Best Season

Late spring through early fall (May–September); winter possible but park remains open year-round

Overview

About This Trail

Boicourt Trail is a 0.2-mile paved accessible walk through Theodore Roosevelt's badlands, delivering badlands views without exertion. The trail is flat pavement the entire way, with an optional unpaved extension continuing to another overlook for those wanting to push further. This is a quick stop on the South Unit scenic drive—perfect for families, wheelchair users, and anyone short on time. There are no surprises here: solid pavement, no elevation, go and return the same way.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Easy

Trail Highlights

Badlands views from the paved section, with a second overlook accessible via the unpaved extension.

Insider Tips

• The paved section is a tourist trap in summer—arrive before 8 AM for relative quiet. • The real payoff is the unpaved overlook. Most visitors quit at the paved end; the additional 0.1–0.2 miles delivers equally good views with fewer people. • If the main lot is full, check nearby Painted Canyon Overlook or Badlands Overlook on the scenic drive. • Water refill: plan to grab water at the visitor center before hitting this section.

Best Season to Hike

Late spring through early fall (May–September); winter possible but park remains open year-round

Hiking Tips

Sunscreen and a hat are non-negotiable—zero shade on the badlands.
Bring at least 1L water even for a 0.2-mile walk; sun exposure intensifies dehydration risk.
If you extend to the unpaved overlook, wear sturdy shoes for uneven ground.
Arrive before 8 AM in summer; the South Unit scenic drive fills fast.
If the main lot is full, continue to the next pulloff on the drive.

Family Info

Very family-friendly. The paved section is flat, smooth, and suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. The unpaved extension is suitable for older children with supervision due to uneven terrain and overlook edges.

What Hikers Say

Visitors consistently praise this as the easiest way to experience Theodore Roosevelt's badlands. Families and wheelchair users cite the flat paved section. The unpaved extension is quieter and offers equally good badlands vistas.

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 0.2 miles

Duration: 20–30 minutes for the paved section at a leisurely pace; add 10–15 minutes if extending to the unpaved overlook.

Difficulty: Easy

Route Type: Out-and-back

Surface: Paved (main section); unpaved and uneven (optional extension)

Getting There

Trailhead: Approximately halfway along the South Unit scenic drive

Fills Up: Full by mid-morning during summer weekends and peak season

Requirements

Permit Required

No permits required.

Fees: $30 per private vehicle (valid 7 days); $15 on foot or bicycle; America the Beautiful annual pass $80

Shuttle Available

Not applicable. Self-guided scenic drive; park at the trailhead.

Trail Rules

Trail Markers: Well marked with paved path and directional signage

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: No water sources on trail. Bring your own; water is available at nearby visitor facilities.

Shade: Full sun—zero shade on the open badlands landscape

Cell Service: Yes—cellular signal available at the trailhead

Hazards:

Intense sun exposure on open badlands creates real heat and UV risk even on a short walk. The unpaved extension has uneven, rocky terrain. Overlook areas have drop-offs; keep children and pets close.

Emergency: Dial 911 for emergencies. South Unit Visitor Center (seasonal) available for non-emergency information and park conditions.

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Moderate to busy, especially summer weekends and midday hours

Peak Times: June–August, weekends, 10 AM–3 PM

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

The 0.2-mile paved section is fully wheelchair and ADA-compliant, suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. The unpaved extension is not wheelchair accessible.

Family Notes:

What Hikers Say

FAQs

Is this trail really just 0.2 miles?

Yes. The paved section is exactly 0.2 miles. An unpaved extension continues beyond the paved end if you want more. This is a quick stop, not a destination hike.

Can I take my wheelchair or stroller?

How long does this take?

Is it shaded? And can I bring my dog?

Should I skip this if the lot is full?

Is the unpaved extension worth it?

Do I need a permit?

📖 National Park Service — Boicourt Trail (official page) (checked 2026-07-08) 📖 National Park Service — Theodore Roosevelt National Park fees, hours & conditions (checked 2026-07-05) 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research. Learn how YourNPGuide works →

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