Hike Valley View Trail

Valley View Trail is a nice stroll through the prairie dog town with picturesque views of the river.

NPS photo

Valley View Trail is perfect for young hikers or a quick leg stretch. This 0.6 mile (1 km), one-way, trail starts at the park amphitheater (Belle Fourche River hub) and swerves right to wind through prairie dog town and past the Belle Fourche River. The trail crosses the park road near the Belle Fourche River bridge and ascends to junction with Red Beds Trail. Red Beds Trail also connects with South Side Trail, Joyner Ridge Trail, and the visitor center  and Tower Trail. 

Hikers young and old will enjoy exploring the bustling town of prairie dogs. Scenic views of cottonwoods, the Belle Fourche River, and Devils Tower are a bonus. Some prairie dog burrows are close to the trail, so watch your step! Do not approach, touch, or feed prairie dogs or their burrows. 

Common Trail Combinations:  

Amphitheater Circuit (Valley View to Red Beds to South Side trails): 1.5-mile loop  

Valley View to Red Beds Loop: 4 mile hike using Valley View Trail to access Red Beds loop and return to amphitheater

Details

Duration

0-30 Minutes

Combining other trails with Valley View Trail can take your hike from a brief stroll to a few hours. 

Activity

Front-Country Hiking

Age(s)

All ages, but small children should be with guardians. 

Pets Allowed

No

Pets are not allowed on any hiking trail in the park.

Activity Fee

No

Park entry fees are required.

Location

Belle Fourche River hub

Valley View Trail is accessible from the park amphitheater (park in the picnic area or campground), the prairie dog town pullouts along the park road, or from Red Beds Trail. The trail itself connects the park amphitheater / Belle Fourche River hub to the park road and to Red Beds Trail.

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

The trail is open year round, but is not maintained in winter.   

Summer: Very sunny and can get very hot.  

Winter: commonly has packed snow and ice. Snow also hides burrows and can make the trail treacherous.  

Spring and Fall: Suggested best time to hike.

Time of Day

Any Time

We recommend this hike for day, dawn, and dusk.

Accessibility Information

Valley View trail is not accessible by ADA standards. The trail is wide enough for one person and is not wheelchair or assistive device accessible. The trail ascends after the road crossing to reach Red Beds Trail. During summer, most of this trail is in direct sunlight. The trail is mostly packed dirt, with sections of loose rock and dirt.