The best running trails in Billings County

The Painted Canyon Trail plunges you into the heart of the North Dakota Badlands, offering a unique jogging experience through a landscape of vibrant, eroded sedimentary rock. You'll start with expansive views from the canyon rim, then descend into a maze of colorful buttes and lush prairie bottoms. Keep an eye out for geological wonders like petrified wood and local wildlife such as mule deer and ground squirrels as you navigate the varied terrain.

This moderate 4.5-mile (7.3 km) jogging route, with 335 feet (102 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 48 minutes to complete. The trail features both paved and unpaved sections, including steep descents and climbs with log steps, so proper footwear is essential. The trailhead is conveniently located directly off I-94, with ample parking and a visitor center available.

Located within Theodore Roosevelt National Park, this trail provides a fantastic opportunity to explore the striking geology of the Badlands up close. It's a great option for those seeking a relatively quick yet immersive outdoor experience, offering a taste of the region's unique natural beauty. The trail also connects to other routes like the Upper Paddock Creek Trail for longer adventures.

The Big Plateau and Ekblom Trail Loop offers a fantastic jogging experience through Theodore Roosevelt National Park's varied terrain. You'll move from lush forest sections to expansive grasslands, eventually reaching the Big Plateau for impressive 360-degree panoramic views of the badlands and the Little Missouri River. This 5.1-mile (8.3 km) route, with 415 feet (127 metres) of elevation gain, is rated moderate and takes about 53 minutes to jog, making it a rewarding challenge for those seeking dynamic scenery.

Planning your visit requires a bit of foresight, especially regarding the mandatory, bridgeless crossing of the Little Missouri River at the start and end of the loop. It's a good idea to check water levels at the visitor center before you go, as you might need to remove your shoes. Spring and fall are ideal for mild temperatures, but if you go in summer, be sure to carry plenty of water and sun protection due to the heat and lack of shade on the plateau.

Beyond the stunning vistas, this trail is a wildlife hotspot. Keep an eye out for bison, mule deer, coyotes, and feral horses, especially when passing through the large prairie dog town. Remember to maintain a safe distance from bison. The route also briefly connects with a section of the famous 144-mile Maah Daah Hey Trail, adding another layer of interest to this already diverse loop.

The Chimney Park Path offers a delightful, easy jogging experience on a smooth, paved surface, perfect for a quick escape into nature. As you follow the 3.0-mile (4.8 km) route, you'll pass by unique geological formations and the historic chimney from the Marquis de Mores's meat packing plant, blending natural beauty with a touch of local history. With only 49 feet (15 metres) of elevation gain, this trail is genuinely accessible for all, taking approximately 29 minutes to complete.

Located on the west edge of Medora, the trail is easily accessible and the surrounding Chimney Park area is a great spot for a picnic. Dogs are welcome to join you on your jog, provided they are kept on a leash and you clean up after them. There are no permits or fees required, making it a hassle-free option for a spontaneous outing.

This multi-use path stands out as a distinctly easy, paved option in western North Dakota, contrasting with more strenuous trails found elsewhere. Its minimal difficulty and scenic views make it an ideal choice for families, beginners, or anyone looking for a relaxing outdoor activity near Medora. It's a great way to enjoy the region's unique landscape and history without a demanding trek.

The Maah Daah Hey Trail offers an immersive jogging experience through the dramatic North Dakota Badlands, where you'll navigate a mix of singletrack, dirt paths, and rocky sections. Imagine running past majestic plateaus and jagged peaks, with expansive rolling prairies stretching out before you, occasionally catching glimpses of the Little Missouri River valley. This difficult 11.4-mile (18.3 km) route, with its 788 feet (240 metres) of elevation gain, is a true backcountry adventure that takes about 1 hours and 56 minutes to complete.

Planning your visit requires a focus on self-sufficiency due to the trail's remoteness, limited cell service, and sparse water sources. While there's no specific mention of permits for jogging this section, always be prepared for the challenging terrain, especially after rain when the bentonite clay can become very sticky. The trail is marked by distinctive wooden posts featuring a turtle symbol, guiding you through the wilderness.

This segment is part of the much larger 144-mile Maah Daah Hey Trail, designated as "EPIC" by the IMBA, reflecting its quality for multi-use activities like jogging. The trail follows ancient routes used by Native Americans, and its name means "Maah Daah Hey" means "an area that will be around for a long time" in the Mandan language. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as bison, elk, and bighorn sheep, which are common sightings in this unique "Serengeti of the Great Plains".

The Jones Creek Trail offers a delightful jogging experience through North Dakota's varied landscapes, following the winding path of Jones Creek. You'll encounter gentle grades and generally not rugged terrain, making it a pleasant outing for all skill levels. Keep an eye out for wild horses, bison, and a colorful array of wildflowers that add to the scenic beauty of this family-friendly route.

Planning your visit to the Jones Creek Trail is straightforward, with opportunities to create varied out-and-back or loop routes by connecting with other trails in the area. This flexibility allows you to customize your jogging distance and experience. While specific parking information isn't detailed, the trail's accessibility suggests easy trailhead access, making it a popular location for a relaxed run.

What truly sets this trail apart is its rich natural environment, providing a unique chance for wildlife spotting. The presence of wild horses and bison, alongside the seasonal wildflowers, makes for a memorable outdoor adventure. It's a fantastic option for those seeking a moderate 7.0-mile (11.3 km) jog with 271 feet (82 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 1 hour and 22 minutes, offering a peaceful escape into nature.

Descend into the heart of the North Dakota badlands on the Painted Canyon Nature Trail, a loop that immerses you in a landscape of vibrant, eroded rock layers. You'll jog past juniper trees and unique formations, getting an up-close view of the ochre, rust, gray, and tan sedimentary rock that defines this stunning canyon. It's a short but intense journey into the park's unique geology.

This easy 1.2-mile (1.9 km) jogging route, with 210 feet (64 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 14 minutes. The trail begins at the Theodore Roosevelt Painted Canyon Visitor Center, which offers restrooms and exhibits. Be mindful that the trail can be muddy and extremely slippery after rain due to bentonite clay, so check conditions before you go.

What makes this trail particularly notable is its dramatic introduction to the badlands, especially for those arriving from the east. It offers a concentrated experience of the park's unique ecology and geology, with potential wildlife sightings like bison and mule deer, all within a relatively short distance.

The Coal Vein Nature Trail offers a captivating glimpse into the badlands' geological past, with its striking brick-red clinker formations and visible coal vein. You'll jog through a landscape dotted with resilient plants like prickly pear cacti and juniper, especially lush with wildflowers in spring and summer. The route is primarily singletrack, winding through different rock layers and offering a unique, interpretive experience.

This easy 0.8-mile (1.3 km) jogging loop, with a minimal 33 feet (10 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 9 minutes. It's an ideal choice for families or those seeking a quick, accessible run within Theodore Roosevelt National Park. While there are some steep sections and stairs, a cutoff trail allows you to bypass the more challenging parts, ensuring a comfortable experience for most.

The trail's most notable feature is the evidence of a historic underground coal fire that burned for 26 years, transforming the landscape into the unique terrain you see today. Informational signs along the route explain the fascinating geology, including bentonite clay layers and hillsides undergoing "slumping." This trail provides a concise yet profound connection to the region's natural history.

The Pancratz Trail offers a truly unique jogging experience in Medora, North Dakota, winding through prairies dotted with wildflowers and sagebrush. You'll navigate varied terrain, including sections with ladders and stairs, as you ascend a butte, all while being treated to stunning panoramic views of the colorful Badlands. It's a compact yet comprehensive way to experience the region's natural beauty.

This moderate 1.7-mile (2.7 km) route involves a significant 349 feet (106 metres) of elevation gain, making it a rewarding workout that takes approximately 19 minutes to complete. While specific Pancratz Trail parking in Medora isn't detailed, the trail is well-known locally, and dogs are welcome to join you on your run.

What sets this trail apart is its ascent to Schafer Point, a historically significant location offering distinct perspectives of the Badlands. The combination of challenging terrain, including its unique ladders and stairs, and the rewarding overlooks makes it the top running route in the Medora area for those seeking an active outdoor experience.

If you're looking for a unique jogging experience through the striking Badlands, the Lower Paddock Creek Trail delivers. This moderate 7.1-mile (11.5 km) route, with 264 feet (80 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 24 minutes to complete. You'll wind through valleys and ravines, encountering fascinating geological features like bentonite mud formations and ancient petrified trees, making it a rewarding journey for those seeking scenic viewpoints and natural features.

Planning your visit requires a bit of foresight. The trail is primarily a singletrack path, and while the overall elevation change isn't extreme, you should be prepared for potential muddy sections after rainfall and some overgrown areas. Always check with the Visitors Center for current conditions, especially regarding creek crossings. Remember to carry plenty of water and sun protection, as there's minimal shade along the route.

This trail is a fantastic opportunity for wildlife spotting while jogging; you'll pass through active prairie dog towns and have a good chance of seeing bison, wild horses, and deer. The dynamic landscape of Theodore Roosevelt National Park truly shines here, offering a rugged beauty that sets it apart from other jogging trails. It's a great choice for those who appreciate a blend of moderate physical activity and immersive natural encounters.