Trail
Talkington Trail Roadside Pulloff
Talkington Trail Roadside Pulloff is a parking area and trailhead providing access to a flexible loop system in Theodore Roosevelt National Park. The pulloff enables access to Jones Creek Trail, Lower Talkington Trail, and Lower Paddock Creek Trail, which can be hiked individually or combined. The full Upper Paddock/Talkington Loop totals 23.4 miles—an 'epic adventure' per NPS description. Short explorations are possible for testing fitness and conditions. NPS recommends consulting the park map for route selection before starting.
Quick facts
- Distance Miles
- 23.4
- Route Type
- Loop
- Elevation Gain Feet
- 0
Trail profile
- Distance Miles
- 23.4
- Route Type
- Loop
- Elevation Gain Feet
- 0
Trailhead & access
- Trailhead Location
- Talkington Trail Roadside Pulloff, Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota (46.9400°N, 103.3811°W)
- Shuttle Required
- 0
Permits & conditions
- Permit Details
- No permit required
- Fees
- $30 — Entrance - Private Vehicle (valid for 7 days); $15 — Per Person (foot or bicycle); $25 — Motorcycle
- Trail Status
- Open
- Seasonal Closures
- No seasonal closures. Theodore Roosevelt National Park is open 24/7 year-round.
Facilities & rules
- Restrooms At Trailhead
- 0
Safety & strategy
- Tips Advice
- Consult the park map before starting—this trailhead offers multiple route options requiring navigation decisions.
- Carry water for any route length.
- The full 23.4-mile loop is an 'epic adventure' per NPS; budget time and fitness accordingly.
- Shorter explorations allow you to test conditions before committing to longer routes.
More details
- Park Area
- Theodore Roosevelt National Park
- Map Recommended
- 1
- Insider Tips
- NPS recommends consulting the park map before selecting your route—this is a flexible trailhead offering multiple options, not a single marked trail.
- Options range from short explorations to the 23.4-mile full loop; decide your distance and route in advance.
Location
Frequently asked questions
Can I do a quick walk here?
Yes. NPS indicates you can hike partway down the trail and back, or commit to longer loops. The pulloff provides flexibility to match your fitness.
What is the full loop distance?
The epic Upper Paddock/Talkington Loop combines Jones Creek Trail, Lower Talkington Trail, and Lower Paddock Creek Trail for a total of 23.4 miles.
Do I need a permit or reservation?
No. This is a public trailhead in Theodore Roosevelt National Park with no permit requirement.
Do I need a map?
Yes. NPS explicitly recommends consulting the park map for route selection before starting. This trailhead connects multiple trails requiring navigation decisions.
Is water available on the trail?
Carry sufficient water for your chosen route length. NPS data does not specify water sources at or along this trailhead.
More at Theodore Roosevelt National Park
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Visit the Elkhorn Ranch Unit
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Badlands Spur Trail
Badlands hub. Access rugged terrain with flexible loop and out-and-back routing options.
Coal Vein Trail Turn
Ancient coal seams meet badlands geology. Easy pulloff, minimal sweat required.
Boicourt Trail
0.2-mile paved badlands walk, wheelchair accessible. Flat terrain, full sun, big views. Arrive early or skip the crowds.
Drive the North Unit Scenic Drive
14-mile badlands drive with bison sightings and river views. Winter closures—call the park first."
Recommended gear for Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Sources
- National Park Service
- YourNPGuide Editorial
Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research. Learn how YourNPGuide works.
Last updated July 2026. Report an issue.