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North Dakota
0.8 mi
Distance
112 ft
Gain
No conditions check on file for this trail yet — always verify current conditions before you go.
Why you'll love it
Coal Vein Trail Post 6: Seasonal Pool
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No permit or access details on file for this trail — check with the local land manager before you go.
Low spots like this one formed when the ground collapsed during the coal vein fire. They fill with water in the wet springtime and after summer rains. These seasonal ponds are important habitats for western chorus frogs which must lay their eggs in standing water. Listen for the chirping of the male chorus frogs near seasonal pools from April to June.
Coal Vein Trail Post 7: Burn Out
~0 min drive
Just ahead and to the right is where the coal vein fire burned out after 26 years (1951-1977). Visitors could see smoke, glowing coals, and sometimes flames. They even roasted marshmallows over the fire! <hr /><strong>Caution! Steep cliff edges ahead.</strong>
Coal Creek
~20 min drive
Easy out-and-back creek walk in North Dakota.
Buffalo Gap
~23 min drive
Moderate 11.90-mile out-and-back badlands hike through scenic canyon terrain.
Ice Caves
~46 min drive
3-mile out-and-back hike to natural ice cave formations in North Dakota badlands.
Coal Vein Trail Post 10: Seasonal Stream
~0 min drive
Just ahead, stairs lead to the valley of a seasonal stream. As you descend, notice the cool, moist air against your skin. Because it is protected from the sun, this area stays moist and cool. Note the plants you see here and compare them to the plants you encountered in open g…
Buffalo Gap Loop
~23 min drive
Easy 2.68-mile loop through North Dakota's scenic Buffalo Gap area.
Maah Daah Hey - North Dakota
~60 min drive
Point-to-point badlands trail featuring dramatic formations and prairie views.
Coal Vein Trail Post 9: Clinker
~0 min drive
Feel the red rock next to the post. It is locally called scoria, but its true name is clinker. Clinker is created when a burning coal seam bakes the rock layer above it. Baking rock is like putting clay into a kiln to make pottery - the rock hardens as it bakes. Because clinke…
Summit Viewpoint
~1h 14m drive
Quick out-and-back hike to scenic viewpoint in North Dakota.
Cottonwood
~1h 2m drive
13.86-mile out-and-back badlands hike with expansive prairie views.