Coal Vein Nature Trail

The Coal Vein Nature Trail offers a captivating glimpse into the badlands' geological past, with its striking brick-red clinker formations and visible coal vein. You'll jog through a landscape dotted with resilient plants like prickly pear cacti and juniper, especially lush with wildflowers in spring and summer. The route is primarily singletrack, winding through different rock layers and offering a unique, interpretive experience.

This easy 0.8-mile (1.3 km) jogging loop, with a minimal 33 feet (10 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 9 minutes. It's an ideal choice for families or those seeking a quick, accessible run within Theodore Roosevelt National Park. While there are some steep sections and stairs, a cutoff trail allows you to bypass the more challenging parts, ensuring a comfortable experience for most.

The trail's most notable feature is the evidence of a historic underground coal fire that burned for 26 years, transforming the landscape into the unique terrain you see today. Informational signs along the route explain the fascinating geology, including bentonite clay layers and hillsides undergoing "slumping." This trail provides a concise yet profound connection to the region's natural history.