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Recreation Region: Buffalo Gap National Grassland

Saddle Pass Horse Trail

This is one of only two designated non-motorized trails on Buffalo Gap National Grassland. The Saddle Pass Trail is intended as a horse-riding trail, but is also open to hiking. Enjoy views along the Badlands "wall" from the loop section of the trail, or extend your adventure by traveling down into the basin as part of an out-and-back section. The trail loop is 6.4 miles in length. The additional out-and-back spur is 4.2 miles one way. The trail is marked by wooden posts. Watch for ticks and snakes in tall grass during warm days. Be mindful of cattle grazing operations from May to November and close all gates you open. 

Image of a trailhead kisok sign. The sign is brown with some paper inserts that provide additional information about the trail. The background is a blue sky with green to yellow grass in color.
Image of a Forest Service trailhead sign that directs users to the trailhead. The sign sits at an intersection of two dirt roads. The sign is yellow and brown. The background is a blue sky with some clouds and yellow and green grass.
Image of a trailmarker post. A plain wooden post shows where the trail exists. The background is a blue sky with some white clouds and yellow to green grass.

General Information

Saddle Pass Trail Map

Open Year Round

Site does not close unless for emergency purposes.

Contact Phone: 605-279-2125

A picture of the Wall Ranger District's office.

Wall Ranger District

Address: 710 Main Street Wall, SD 57790
Phone: 605-279-2126
Hours: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM, Monday - Friday (mountain time). Hours vary so please call ahead. (Closed on federal holidays)

Getting There

Directions

Take exit 131 (approximately 23 miles east of Wall, South Dakota) off Interstate 90. The trailhead, which is marked by signs, is located along Highway 240. 

Coordinates: 43.80701, -101.9005

Facility and Amenity Information

Restrooms

Restrooms are not available at this site.

Horse/Pack Animal Information

Horse/Pack animals are allowed at this site.

Recreation Opportunities

Horse Riding and Camping Horse Riding and Camping Hiking Hiking Outdoor Science and Learning Outdoor Science and Learning

Horseback RidingHorseback Riding

Horseback Riding Info

Saddle Pass Horse Trail was created by horseback riding users and offers space at the trailhead for parking trailers. 

HikingHiking

Hiking Info

This trail is open to hikers as well. 

Viewing SceneryViewing Scenery

Viewing Scenery Info

Saddle Pass Horse Trail offers a great opportunity to take in the prairie ecosystem and scenery. On the south end of the trail enjoy stunning views of badlands formations. 

Last updated April 30th, 2025

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