Uploaded April 2025 | Updated September 2026, 1 week ago
Easy guide to hiking White Butte, North Dakota's remote and scenic high point in the heart of the Badlands.
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White Butte sits at 3,506 feet in the North Dakota Badlands, and the trail to the summit is short, gradual, and manageable for most hikers. The route is about 3.2 miles round trip with minimal elevation gain, making it one of the easier state highpoints. Access requires a drive on gravel roads to a private ranch where the trailhead is located. The landowner allows hikers to pass through at no cost, but respect for the property is expected. Best hiked in spring or fall when temperatures are mild and the Badlands scenery is at its best. No permits required, but check road conditions before heading out as the gravel can wash out after heavy rain.
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*Disclaimer:*
Some of these links are affiliate links where I'll earn a small commission if you make a purchase at no additional cost to you. I only recommend gear I actually use and trust.
Easy guide to hiking White Butte, North Dakota's remote and scenic high point in the heart of the Badlands.
*Gear I'm Using Now:*
* inReach: hkgy.co/inreach
* Hiking App: hkgy.co/app
* Watch: hkgy.co/watch
* Shoes: hkgy.co/shoes
* Pack: hkgy.co/backpack
* Rescue Insurance: hkgy.co/insurance
*Full Hiking Gear List (What I Use Now - Tested & Not Sponsored):*
hikingguy.com/gear
*More Hiking Content*
* Website: hikingguy.com
* Patreon: patreon.com/c/hikingguy
* Monthly Hiking News (free): patreon.com/c/hikingguy
* Subscribe: youtube.com/c/Hikingguy
White Butte sits at 3,506 feet in the North Dakota Badlands, and the trail to the summit is short, gradual, and manageable for most hikers. The route is about 3.2 miles round trip with minimal elevation gain, making it one of the easier state highpoints. Access requires a drive on gravel roads to a private ranch where the trailhead is located. The landowner allows hikers to pass through at no cost, but respect for the property is expected. Best hiked in spring or fall when temperatures are mild and the Badlands scenery is at its best. No permits required, but check road conditions before heading out as the gravel can wash out after heavy rain.
---
*Disclaimer:*
Some of these links are affiliate links where I'll earn a small commission if you make a purchase at no additional cost to you. I only recommend gear I actually use and trust.
