The Badlands is a truly incredible place. Filled with wonder and weirdness, it's unlike anywhere else on this continent - or maybe even this planet. South Dakotans are lucky to have the honor of claiming it as ours (well, mostly), and as a result, adventure is only as far away as your distance to Badlands National Park (and if it's a lengthy distance, it's still worth it).

With more than 240,000 amazing acres of awesomeness to explore, I'm fairly certain that boredom at Badlands is not a thing. With as many jaw-dropping hiking trails as there are in the park, it might be a little tough to choose one - so let me help! One of my favorite hiking trails in South Dakota just so happens to be here at Badlands, and it's so iconic that it's even considered the "doorway" to the natural wonder - so much so that it's called the Door Trail.

The Door Trail is short, sweet, and pretty easy, with most of it being on a nice, flat boardwalk that's ADA-accessible. Hiking is for everyone, and my favorite trails are usually the ones with everyone in mind. This one's no exception; it's outlandishly beautiful and filled end-to-end with splendor, but I digress.

On this incredible hike, meander through ancient bedrock and admire the strange beauty of South Dakota's Badlands. Witness nature at its finest, from stunning wildflowers in the spring and summer to the harsh brilliance of the sun in winter. One cannot simply go wrong on The Door Trail. It's open year-round, but thanks to the harsh winters this area often endures, I definitely recommend visiting in spring, summer, or autumn. Life in South Dakota doesn't have to be boring - not even a little! Wait 'til you experience our great outdoors.

It's worth noting that this hike isn't very long - just under a mile - but can be brutal, especially in the summer when it gets hot. There is little to no shade along the trail, so be sure to prepare accordingly and pack plenty of water and sunblock (even if it's the dead of winter).

Ultimately, The Door Trail leads hikers to an astonishing vista with awesome views of the entire surrounding landscape. You'll feel like Simba in "The Lion King" being guided by his father to understand everything the light touches. You'll feel like you've just conquered the world. It's equal parts adventure and awe-invoking experience where your soul will feel as if it's just been set free. There's just something about the Badlands that feels both alien and familiar; it's a joy to visit and even moreso to hike.

Sure, this one's an easy trek for the most part, but that doesn't make it any less rewarding. Be sure to leave your dog at home, though - no dogs permitted on this trail (bummer, I know). As long as you plan accordingly and prepare thoroughly, you ought to have no problem conquering this incredible adventure way out in the boonies. I think you'll love it!

For more information about this amazing hiking trail in South Dakota, be sure to check out its official AllTrails listing. If you're a serious hiker and you can't get enough, check out AllTrails Plus - it's a lifesaver. In love with this state yet? Well, uh oh - here are some reasons why you should never move to South Dakota.