Juniper Spur Trail
The Juniper Spur Trail sits just south of the Burning Coal Vein Campground in the Little Missouri National Grassland and offers a quick, easy way to experience the Badlands. It’s a short walk—only about a tenth of a mile—following a gentle ridge with wide‑open views. As you head down the unpaved path, you’ll spot rugged rock formations and the tall, columnar juniper trees, The area is known for its historic burning coal veins, and you can still see hints of that unique geology along the way. Its close proximity to the Maah Daah Hey Trail also makes it a nice starting point for exploring more of the surrounding landscape.
Specific Trail Information
Trail Number
Trail Type
General Information
24/7. Year-round.
A water hand pump is available at the Burning Coal Vein Campground (available spring through fall, and turned off during winter).
All trails are intended for non-motorized travel only. Therefore, all motorized vehicles, including E-bikes, motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), utility terrain vehicles (UTVs), and snowmobiles are prohibited.
Contact Name: Medora Ranger District
Contact Phone: (701) 227-7800
Address: 99 23rd Ave. W., Suite B, Dickinson, ND 58601
Phone: (701) 227-7800
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM Mountain Time (Closed on federal holidays)
Office Email: Medora.RD@usda.gov
Getting There
Trailhead/Starting Points
Within the Burning Coal Vein Campground follow the gravel road to the back of the campground and up the hill to the overlook and trailhead.
Parking
Parking available in the campground or on the overlook.
