Last updated: March 8, 2021
Thing to Do
Hike Coal Vein Trail
NPS Photo/L. Thomas
You've seen the beautiful red clinker capping the tops of buttes throughout the Little Missouri badlands. But where does it come from?
Coal Vein Trail answers this and many more of your geology questions along its 0.8-mile length. Pick up one of the trail guides from the trailhead and go on a self-guided tour of the small loop, learning about clinker, bentonite, and the coal seam that burned here for more than 25 years!
Hikers should wear proper footwear and keep away from steep cliff edges.
It is illegal to remove any resource from a national park. Leave any flower, stone, or other object where you find it so that other visitors can enjoy it as well.
It is illegal to carve, paint, or otherwise alter anything in a national park.
Coal Vein Trail answers this and many more of your geology questions along its 0.8-mile length. Pick up one of the trail guides from the trailhead and go on a self-guided tour of the small loop, learning about clinker, bentonite, and the coal seam that burned here for more than 25 years!
Hikers should wear proper footwear and keep away from steep cliff edges.
It is illegal to remove any resource from a national park. Leave any flower, stone, or other object where you find it so that other visitors can enjoy it as well.
It is illegal to carve, paint, or otherwise alter anything in a national park.
Details
Duration
30-45 Minutes
Activity
Hiking
Pets Allowed
No
Pets are welcome in Theodore Roosevelt National Park. However, they are only allowed in certain areas.
Leashed pets may be walked along roads and road shoulders, sidewalks, parking areas, and in campgrounds and picnic areas.
More information: Visiting with Pets.
Leashed pets may be walked along roads and road shoulders, sidewalks, parking areas, and in campgrounds and picnic areas.
More information: Visiting with Pets.
Activity Fee
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Location
Coal Vein Trailhead
The Coal Vein Trailhead is located near the end of an approximately 1-mile dirt road. This road is located 20-miles into the South Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park, on the south side of the scenic drive.
Reservations
No
Season
Year Round
Trail conditions may be dangerous or slippery due to inclement weather. Speak to a ranger for more details.
Time of Day
Any Time
Accessibility Information
Coal Vein Trail is an unpaved trail which includes uneven footing, steep stairs, and potential slip hazards. Hikers should keep away from steep cliff edges. Proper footwear is recommended. Service animals are allowed, but must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet.