Long X to Maah Daah Hey Loop

The loop conveniently starts and ends at the CCC Campground near Watford City. You can find parking available there.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trail. However, please ensure your dog is kept on a leash at all times and that you pack out all waste to preserve the natural environment.

Spring and fall are generally the most pleasant times to hike the loop, offering milder temperatures. Summers can be very hot, requiring extra hydration, and the trail can become very muddy and difficult after rain due to bentonite clay.

The Long X to Maah Daah Hey Loop is located within the Dakota Prairie National Grasslands. Generally, no specific permits or entrance fees are required for day hiking on these trails. However, always check the latest regulations from the U.S. Forest Service for any updates, especially if you plan to camp.

The terrain is varied and rugged, characteristic of the Badlands. You'll encounter significant climbs and descents on hand-cut singletrack, winding through narrow valleys, up switchbacks, and across plateaus. The ground is primarily natural earth, and bentonite clay can make it very muddy after rain. The Long X Trail section is generally more level, while other parts include 'big climbs' and 'big descents'.

The loop offers amazing picturesque vistas of the Badlands. You'll traverse expansive rolling prairies, walk alongside steep clay buttes, and pass through lush valleys and wooded draws. Expect views of the Little Missouri River and impressive rock formations. The trail also includes sections of the historic Long X Trail and the Maah Daah Hey Trail at CCC Campground.

Komoot rates this hike as 'moderate'. While the Long X Trail section is relatively easy, the loop includes significant elevation changes with 'big climbs' and 'big descents' on rugged terrain, especially on the Maah Daah Hey sections. Hikers should be prepared for a moderate to strenuous effort.

Water sources are limited on the trail. There is a primitive pump available at the CCC Campground, but it's crucial to carry sufficient water, especially during warmer months, as other reliable sources are scarce.

The area is rich in wildlife. You might spot animals such as coyotes, pronghorn, bison, bighorn sheep, elk, and wild horses roaming freely, adding to the natural beauty of the Badlands.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of the Long X Trail and the Maah Daah Hey Trail. It also passes through smaller sections of the Summit Trail and the CCC Trail.

This 17.8 km (11-mile) loop typically takes around 4 hours and 51 minutes to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views.

Due to the presence of bentonite clay, the trail can become extremely muddy and difficult to navigate after rainfall. It's advisable to check weather forecasts and recent trail reports before heading out, as conditions can significantly impact your hiking experience.