Explore Sheep Mountain Table

Navigating to Sheep Mountain Table

Sheep Mountain Table is located on the border of the North and South Unit of Badlands National Park. Sheep Mountain Table Road is a dirt road that should not be driven during or after storms. Four-wheel drive vehicles are recommended, even in dry conditions. This road begins on the west side of SD Hwy 27, 4.5 miles south of SD Hwy 44 at the town of Scenic.

From SD Hwy 27, Sheep Mountain Table Road continues 5 miles up to the top of the table and stops at an overlook. The road beyond the overlook is accessible only by four-wheel drive, high clearance vehicles. The road continues 2.5 miles past the overlook and comes to a dead end. If you have questions about driving up Sheep Mountain Table, please contact the park at [phone].

Hiking Sheep Mountain Table

Visitors who are not driving four-wheel drive, high clearance vehicles can still access the views from the end of Sheep Mountain Table by foot. Park at the overlook on top of the table and hike on the dirt road for 2.5 miles to reach the end of the road.

Safety Tips

• Seeing Badlands National Park can be exciting, especially when you spot the perfect view. Be sure to pull off into a pull-out or overlook to enjoy. Please do not stop in the road, as this stops traffic.
• Wildlife is commonly seen on many park roads. Remember to keep a minimum of a 100-foot distance from any wildlife -- if the wildlife notices you, you are too close.
• Follow all posted speed limits and be especially careful when passing parking lots, where pedestrian traffic is common.
• Check the weather. Weather in Badlands National Park can change rapidly. Use extra caution when driving in rainy, snowy, or icy conditions.
• Lost? Cell phones are not always reliable in the park, where service can be spotty. Make sure to pick up a park map from an entry booth, the Ben Reifel Visitor Center, the White River Visitor Center, or check out online maps before heading out.
• Visit this safety page for more information on having a safe visit to Badlands National Park.

Details

Duration

1-3 Hours

Activity

Scenic Driving

Pets Allowed

Yes with Restrictions

Pets are permitted in Badlands National Park with some restrictions. Pets must be kept on a leash no more than six feet in length at all times. Pets are only permitted in developed areas, such as campgrounds and picnic areas, and other areas open to motor vehicles, such as gravel and paved roadways, roadway corridors, and parking lots. Pets are prohibited from hiking trails, public buildings (i.e. visitor centers), and backcountry areas, including the Badlands Wilderness Area, and areas with prairie dog colonies. Pet etiquette dictates always cleaning up animal waste and disposing of it in trash receptacles.

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

The road up to Sheep Mountain Table is open all year, but should not be driven in snowy or icy conditions. The road may be closed in the winter due to weather. Call the park at [phone] for current conditions on this road.

Time of Day

Any Time

The road up to Sheep Mountain Table is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Accessibility Information

Sheep Mountain Table Road is not paved and therefore difficult for most people who use a wheelchair. The terrain is rough and rocky.