Boicourt 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.

Quick facts

Distance Miles: 0.2
Route Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty Level: Easy
Elevation Gain Feet: 0

Trail profile

Distance Miles: 0.2
Route Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty Level: Easy
Elevation Gain Feet: 0
Estimated Time: 20–30 minutes for the paved section at a leisurely pace; add 10–15 minutes if extending to the unpaved overlook.
Trail Surface: Paved (main section); unpaved and uneven (optional extension)
Trail Features: Badlands views
Scenic overlooks
Paved accessible trail
Optional unpaved extension
Trail Highlights: Badlands views from the paved section, with a second overlook accessible via the unpaved extension.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location: Approximately halfway along the South Unit scenic drive
Parking Fill Time: Full by mid-morning during summer weekends and peak season
Shuttle Required: 0
Shuttle Details: Not applicable. Self-guided scenic drive; park at the trailhead.

Permits & conditions

Permit Details: No permits required.
Fees: $30 per private vehicle (valid 7 days); $15 on foot or bicycle; America the Beautiful annual pass $80
Trail Status: Open year-round
Seasonal Closures: None. Theodore Roosevelt National Park is open 24 hours daily, 365 days a year. Winter snow may affect trail use but does not close it.

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead: 0
Water Sources: No water sources on trail. Bring your own; water is available at nearby visitor facilities.
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.

Safety & strategy

Hazards: Sun exposure
Heat
Uneven ground on unpaved extension
Cliff edges at overlooks
Hazard Details: 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.
Cell Service: Yes—cellular signal available at the trailhead
Crowd Level: Moderate to busy, especially summer weekends and midday hours
Peak Crowd Times: June–August, weekends, 10 AM–3 PM
Best Season: Late spring through early fall (May–September); winter possible but park remains open year-round
Best Time To Visit: Late spring through early fall (May–September) offers the most stable weather and best visibility of the badlands. Arrive before 8 AM to avoid crowds on the scenic drive. Winter is possible; the trail remains open year-round but may have icy patches.
Tips Advice: 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.

More details

Park Area: South Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Trail Markers: Well marked with paved path and directional signage
Shade Level: Full sun—zero shade on the open badlands landscape
Emergency Contacts: Dial 911 for emergencies. South Unit Visitor Center (seasonal) available for non-emergency information and park conditions.
Map Recommended: 0
Snow Dates: Winter snow likely December–February; the trail remains accessible but may have icy sections. Check park conditions before visiting.
Mud Season: Possible after heavy rain, especially on 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.
Recent Updates: No significant changes reported. Trail remains maintained and open.
Family Friendly Notes: 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.
Review Summary: 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.

Location

Frequently asked questions

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?

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

Do I need a permit?

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