If you’re planning a visit to Mount Rushmore, make sure your itinerary includes a Badlands Sunset Tour—and not just any tour. The Badlands Wildlife Tour by Badlands Tour Company is a next-level experience led by a passionate, trained field guide who blends science, storytelling, and wilderness immersion into one unforgettable journey.
This isn’t your standard sightseeing loop. It’s a field-style expedition through the heart of Badlands National Park, timed perfectly to coincide with the dramatic changes that occur as the day fades. As the sun sinks lower, shadows stretch across the cliffs, the air cools, and wildlife stirs. You’ll traverse scenic overlooks, venture onto short interpretive trails, and pause at quiet locations handpicked for their awe-inspiring views and ecological richness.
From photographing the iconic Badlands sunset to observing wildlife like bison, pronghorn, and bighorn sheep, to stargazing under some of the darkest skies in America—this tour captures the true essence of the Badlands.
7 Hours (approx.)
If you’re visiting Mount Rushmore, a sunset tour of Badlands National Park is an absolute must—and Badlands Tour Company offers a truly exceptional version of it. Led by a trained biologist, this field expedition blends science, storytelling, and wilderness immersion into a once-in-a-lifetime experience that brings the Badlands to life in its most breathtaking light.
This isn’t a sightseeing loop—it’s a field-style wildlife expedition that hits its stride as the sun begins to set. As the shadows lengthen and the temperature drops, the landscape transforms and wildlife emerges. You’ll explore secluded overlooks, walk short trails, and pause at pristine spots ideal for photographing the iconic Badlands sunset, observing native species, and stargazing under some of the darkest skies in the region.
The Golden Hour is the first part of sunset, when the sun is low on the horizon and casts a warm, diffused glow over the landscape. In the Badlands, this light ignites the cliffs, buttes, and spires—creating ideal conditions for photography.
But it’s not just about light. It’s about life. Wildlife becomes more active during this time. Expect to see bison grazing, pronghorn crossing valleys, bighorn sheep on distant ridges, and prairie dogs popping in and out of their burrows.
Click here for a better understanding of the Golden Hour.
As the Golden Hour fades, it gives way to the Blue Hour—a short, mystical period just after sunset when the sun has dipped below the horizon, but twilight still lingers. The sky deepens into shades of cobalt and navy, and the land takes on a new drama and depth.
For photographers, this is a chance to capture surreal silhouettes and moody vistas. For stargazers, it’s the gentle slide into darkness, when the first stars blink into view.
The Badlands are famous not just for their ancient rock formations and fossil beds, but also for their spectacular skies. During sunset, the entire landscape ignites in layers of golden, amber, and rose hues. These glowing tones illuminate the cliffs and spires, revealing textures and layers that disappear under harsh daylight. It’s no wonder the area is internationally recognized as a top destination for photographers and astronomers.
Many visitors flock to the park for daytime sightseeing, but it’s during the Golden Hour and Blue Hour that the Badlands truly reveal their soul.
Your tour starts with a private pickup directly from your hotel. Once on board, the adventure begins.
Driving out to the Badlands, you’ll learn about the geological history and diversity of the prairie lands along the way. Wall Drug is just ahead, and you’ll be stopping here just before we enter Badlands National Park.
This is where your anticipation begins. We’ll arrive about an hour and a half before your sunset tour of the Badlands. Timing is everything and the Golden Hour in the Badlands is the place to be. This is the best time for you to see wildlife. Bison, Antelope, Prairie Dogs, Bighorn Sheep, and more come out to say hello!
Once we arrive at a perfect location to view the Badlands National Park sunset, you’ll be provided with folding chairs, water, snacks, binoculars, and a blanket, if needed. As we peer out at the colorful shapes, spires, and ravines, you’ll be tantalized with dazzling red, orange, pink and brown hues.
When the sun goes down, the tour isn’t over yet. You’ll be taken through the park during the Blue Hour when the focus becomes the sky. Clouds are a rainbow of colors, and the land darkens, providing excellent contrast.
Your animal friends are still out and about, taking advantage of the last moments of light. The road meanders through what looks like another world. You’ve experienced something extraordinary, with incredible photos and memories to share with your friends and family.
While we head home, any questions you have will be answered while you kick back and relax for the journey back to your accommodations. Your Badlands tour ends, but the journey continues. We hope you choose to take another tour with us during your vacation to the Black Hills and Badlands of South Dakota.
