BADLANDS NATIONAL PARK

June 3, 2011…Exploring Badlands National Park

We carried on the Badlands National Park which is famous for its sharply eroded buttes, pinnacles, and spires, layered in colorful bands of sedimentary rock. These formations were shaped by millions of years of deposition and erosion, creating a surreal and mesmerizing landscape. The Badlands is also one of the world’s richest fossil beds, with ancient mammal bones and other prehistoric remains frequently discovered. The Fossil Exhibit Trail showcases replicas of fossils found in the park.

Approaching Badlands National Park

Badlands National Park

We also took a drive the Badlands Loop Road (Highway 240), which is a 31-mile route that winds through the park, offering stunning views and access to many overlooks, trails and great photo ops!

Badlands National Park

Badlands Loop Road

Badlands National Park

Wall Drug in Wall, SD

Because of our limited time, we didn’t stay in the Badlands, but moved on to Wall, SD where we stayed for the night checking out the famous Wall Drug Store. If any of you have watched the movie “Nomadland” some of that movie was filmed here. ”Nomadland” (2020), directed by Chloé Zhao and starring Frances McDormand, captures the essence of modern-day nomads living in their RVs and traveling across the United States, often taking seasonal jobs to sustain their lifestyle. One of the seasonal work stops for a couple of the characters was Wall Drug, here in Wall, SD.

Wall Drug

Wall Drug is much more than a pharmacy, it is a sprawling complex featuring a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions. Visitors can enjoy homemade donuts, Western-themed souvenirs, and unique photo opportunities, such as the giant jackalope and a life-sized T. rex. The store also houses a museum showcasing Western art, historic artifacts, and a replica of an old-fashioned drugstore. Definitely plan to stay a while and grab a bite to eat while you’re here!