Coal Vein Nature Trail

The Coal Vein Nature Trail is located in the South Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Parking is available at the trailhead within the park. For detailed information on park access, you can visit the official National Park Service website.

Yes, the Coal Vein Nature Trail is located within Theodore Roosevelt National Park, so standard park entrance fees apply. You can find current fee information and details on passes on the National Park Service website.

Dogs are generally allowed on trails within Theodore Roosevelt National Park, including the Coal Vein Nature Trail, but they must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet at all times. Please remember to pack out any waste.

The trail offers unique beauty throughout the year. Spring brings potential for western chorus frogs in seasonal pools, while fall showcases vibrant colors. Summer is popular, but be prepared for heat. Winter can be beautiful but may present icy conditions. Always check weather and trail conditions before you go.

The terrain is unpaved and includes uneven footing and some steep stairs. You'll encounter descents and ascents with moderate inclines. The trail features various geological formations, including bentonite clay, which can become extremely slippery and muddy when wet, earning it the local nickname "gumbo."

This trail is named for a coal seam that burned underground for 26 years, from 1951 to 1977. You can see how this burning coal baked the surrounding rocks into hard, red "clinker" (also known as scoria), which now caps many buttes. Informative signs explain the formation of bentonite clay from volcanic ash and how the coal fire caused ground collapse, creating seasonal pools. The trail itself is a significant Coal Vein Nature Trail highlight.

You might spot wildlife such as bison in the surrounding Badlands landscape. During wet seasons, seasonal pools along the trail may host western chorus frogs. The area is also home to various birds and smaller mammals.

While generally considered easy, the trail's unpaved and uneven terrain, including steep stairs and moderate inclines, requires caution for joggers. The bentonite clay can become very slippery when wet. It's a short loop, making it suitable for a quick, challenging jog if you're prepared for the varied surface.

The Coal Vein Nature Trail is a loop, approximately 0.6 to 0.8 miles (1 km) in length, offering a continuous scenic experience without retracing your steps.

Be aware that the bentonite clay sections of the trail can become extremely slippery and muddy after rain. This material, locally known as "gumbo," can make walking or jogging challenging. Proper footwear with good traction is highly recommended, and you might consider postponing your visit if conditions are very wet.

Due to the unpaved, uneven terrain and the potential for slippery bentonite clay, sturdy hiking shoes or trail running shoes with good traction are highly recommended. Avoid smooth-soled shoes, especially if there's any chance of wet conditions.