Trail

Rankin Ridge Nature Trail

Trail

1-mile ridge climb to Wind Cave's highest point through ponderosa forest. Steep but short—manageable if you start hydrated. Badlands National Park sprawls across the horizon on clear days. No water on trail, so this demands tactical planning and full hydration load before you start.

Quick facts

Distance Miles
1
Difficulty Level
Moderate

Trail profile

Distance Miles
1
Difficulty Level
Moderate
Trail Features
  • Ponderosa pine forest
  • Prairie grassland
  • Highest point in Wind Cave National Park
  • Historic fire tower (closed to climbers)
  • Badlands National Park views
  • Buffalo Gap views
Trail Highlights
On clear days, you can see Badlands National Park and Buffalo Gap in the distance from the park's highest point.

Trailhead & access

Shuttle Required
0
Shuttle Details
No shuttle service. Direct parking at trailhead.

Permits & conditions

Permit Details
No permit required.
Fees
No entrance fee charged. Wind Cave National Park is free to enter.
Trail Status
Open
Seasonal Closures
Winter snow and ice can limit access to this exposed ridge. Check park conditions before winter visits.

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead
0
Water Sources
No drinking water available on this trail. Carry all hydration.

Safety & strategy

Hazards
  • Bison and wildlife encounters
  • Sun exposure
  • Dehydration risk
  • No water sources
  • Exposed ridge terrain
Hazard Details
Bison and other wildlife are dangerous and unpredictable—maintain 25-yard minimum distance and do not approach. No drinking water available on trail; bring full hydration (minimum 2L). Exposed ridge at summit creates heat and sun hazard in afternoon hours.
Best Season
Late spring through early fall (May–October).
Best Time To Visit
Late spring through early fall (May–October). Summer is peak. Start by dawn to avoid afternoon heat exposure on the exposed ridge. Snow can limit access in winter; check conditions.
Tips Advice
  • Carry minimum 2L water—there is no drinking water on this trail.
  • Tighten your boots for the constant uphill grind.
  • Start at dawn—afternoon heat on the exposed ridge is real.
  • Bring a wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen.
  • Make noise while hiking—bison are unpredictable and dangerous. Maintain 25-yard minimum distance from all wildlife.

More details

Park Area
Rankin Ridge
Trail Markers
Well-marked with numbered posts for self-guided nature tour. Follow posts and consult NPS app for interpretive information.
Dogs Allowed
No
Shade Level
Partial shade through ponderosa forest; exposed ridge at summit with full sun.
Emergency Contacts
Wind Cave National Park Visitor Center: 605-745-4600
Map Recommended
1
Insider Tips
  • Self-guided nature tour posts are numbered and keyed to the NPS app—excellent interpretation of the ponderosa/prairie ecosystem.
  • The historic fire tower marks the summit but climbing is prohibited.
  • Best Badlands views occur in early morning before atmospheric haze builds.
  • Afternoon thermal winds can kick up on the exposed ridge—plan your descent before 3pm.
  • Hiking off-trail is permitted per NPS policy, but stick to marked route for safety and to avoid vegetation damage.
Recent Updates
Climbing up the historic fire tower is not permitted.
Family Friendly Notes
Short distance is manageable for fit kids 8+, but constant supervision is mandatory due to wildlife hazards (bison). No pets permitted—this is a hard rule. No shade at summit; afternoon heat exposure is real. The trail meanders uphill—pacing is important for younger hikers.
Review Summary
Hikers report the 1-mile climb is deceptively taxing due to constant elevation gain and zero water sources. Most say the summit views of Badlands justify the effort, but hydration planning is critical. Experienced hikers finish in under an hour; casual pace takes 1.5 hours. Wildlife sightings (prairie dogs, bison) are common.

Location

Frequently asked questions

Is 1 mile really that hard?

It's not distance—it's elevation gain. Constant uphill the entire way to the park's highest point. Most fit hikers do it in under an hour, but pace yourself with water breaks.

What about water on the trail?

Zero water sources. Carry minimum 2L. Plan and fill up at the visitor center before you start.

Is it safe for kids?

Yes, if they're solid hikers 8+ and you supervise closely. Bison sightings happen—brief them on 25-yard distance rule before you go. Constant elevation gain challenges younger legs.

Can I bring my dog?

No. No pets are permitted on this trail—non-negotiable.

Do I need a permit?

No permit required. Free access. Wind Cave National Park is free to enter.

What if clouds block the Badlands views?

Haze and cloud cover are common, especially by afternoon. Check the weather forecast before you go and start early for best visibility.

Boland Ridge Trail

5.2mi ridge grind with climbs. Black Hills vistas + elk sightings. Dry trail—bring water.

Centennial Trail

6-mile backcountry hike through prairie and forest. No water—carry 2-3L minimum. Bison zone.

Cold Brook Canyon Trail

Moderately strenuous 2.8-mile hike through forest and prairie. Zero water. Your hydration discipline determines success.

Elk Mountain Nature Trail

1-mile pet-friendly loop. Grassland-forest junction. Easy—but bring 2L water and respect bison at 100-yard distance.

Sources

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

Last updated July 2026. Report an issue.