A 4.5 mile section of the Scenic Loop Drive in the South Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park is closed to motor vehicles indefinitely due to erosion failure. The south side of the loop road is closed from the mile 7 closure gate to the Badlands Overlook at mile 11.5.
Roads in the park are frequently in need of repair, as the Badlands erode easily. There is currently no estimate for the length of time of the road closure. An emergency repair funding request has been submitted through the National Park Service road repair program.
“Constant erosion of the soft rock and soils of the Badlands has given us fantastic scenery," said Chief of Interpretation Eileen Andes. “The geology of the area also poses challenges in maintaining our infrastructure, especially our roads."
Oversized vehicles may be difficult to turn around in smaller pullouts. Signs, posted information, and the park’s website and social media will notify drivers of areas where oversized or towed vehicles are not permitted. Visitors traveling through the park’s South Unit will be asked to unhook trailers and park them in designated areas. The public is encouraged to inquire at park visitor centers for further information and current road conditions.
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
