Horton Road - Northern Boundary of Badlands National Park

Trail Overview

Horton Road is a remote two-track that runs along the northern boundary of Badlands National Park in South Dakota. This lightly maintained backcountry road cuts through open prairie terrain, with long, straight stretches flanked by grasslands, ranch fencing, and power lines.The trail provides expansive views of the Badlands to the south and wide-open plains to the north. It's a scenic connector road ideal for overlanding and backcountry exploration. While there are no major technical features, the isolation, variable traction, and long sightlines give it a distinctly wild, off-the-grid character.

Photos of Horton Road - Northern Boundary of Badlands National Park

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Difficulty

Horton Road is relatively smooth when dry, with light ruts and shallow washouts. Most stock 4WD and 2WD vehicles with decent ground clearance can handle the trail without issue. The clay-rich soil quickly becomes slick after rainfall, reducing traction and increasing the chance of sliding, especially in low-lying sections. Vehicles may struggle with mud buildup on tires. 4WD is strongly recommended during or after precipitation, and drivers should be confident in mud handling.

Technical Rating

Horton Road - Northern Boundary of Badlands National Park can be accessed by the following ride types:

• High-Clearance 4x4
• SUV
• SxS (60")
• ATV (50")
• Dirt Bike