North Dakota Travel Guide
North Dakota offers a peaceful escape with its friendly communities, clean and quiet towns, and expansive prairies. Enjoy hikes and wildlife sightings at Theodore Roosevelt National Park or take a scenic drive through the sun-kissed plains. North Dakota is an off-the-beaten-path destination where you can experience the remote, natural beauty of the American Midwest.
Theodore Roosevelt National Park
From the top things to do in the park to the best trails to hike, here are our articles about Theodore Roosevelt National Park.
12 Best Things to Do in Theodore Roosevelt NP (+ 3 Day Itinerary)
Theodore Roosevelt National Park is a picturesque wilderness of grasslands and badlands. Bison, feral horses, and elk roam the landscapes, hiking trails meander through the colorful bentonite hills, and scenic roads take visitors to numerous stunning overlooks. In this post, learn about the best things to do in Theodore Roosevelt National Park.
Complete Guide to the North Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Theodore Roosevelt National Park is divided into three distinct sections: the North Unit, the South Unit, and the Elkhorn Ranch Unit. While most visitors flock to the South Unit because of its easy access from I-94, those who venture further north are rewarded with a more rugged, dramatic, and tranquil landscape. The North Unit is […]
Complete Guide to the South Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park
In this guide, discover the best things to do in the South Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park, from the best hikes and viewpoints to what to expect along Scenic Loop Drive. Theodore Roosevelt National Park is made up of three separate units: the South Unit, the North Unit, and the Elkhorn Ranch Unit. The […]
Ekblom Trail and Big Plateau Loop: The Complete Hiking Guide
The Ekblom Trail and Big Plateau Loop is one of the best hikes to do in Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Along this hike, you have numerous chances to spot wildlife, gaze out across the grasslands and colorful badlands, and get up close to the Little Missouri River. When we did this, we saw mule deer, […]
How to Hike the Caprock Coulee Trail | Theodore Roosevelt National Park
The Caprock Coulee Trail is often described as one of the best hikes in Theodore Roosevelt National Park. From this trail, you get some of the best views over the Little Missouri River and wildlife sightings are common from the trail. We hiked a lot of trails in the North and South Unit, and even […]
How to Hike the Petrified Forest Trail in Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Badlands, grasslands, bison, and the Little Missouri River are not the only attractions in Theodore Roosevelt National Park. You can also visit the Petrified Forest to see ancient, mineralized trees, similar to what you will see at Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona. Millions of years ago, this part of North Dakota was once a […]
Top Experiences in North Dakota
Theodore Roosevelt National Park. This picturesque wilderness of badlands and prairies is arguably the premier spot to enjoy North Dakota’s landscapes. Broken into three separate units, each with their own unique vibe and adventures, this national park is home to good hiking, scenic drives, and wildlife sightings.
Maah Daah Hey Trail. This 144-mile track connects the north and south units of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. The trail features a mix of rolling prairies, rugged terrain, canyons, scenic views, and wildlife. Most of this hiking trail is also shared with mountain bikers and horseback riders.
Enchanted Highway. North Dakota’s Enchanted Highway is a 32-mile stretch of road that is lined with giant metal sculptures. The Enchanted Highway runs from I-94 to the small town of Regent. Along the drive, you can stop and take pictures at each of the sculpture sites. This is an easy side excursion when visiting Theodore Roosevelt National Park.
Lake Sakakawea. This giant, 480-square-mile lake is a great spot for swimming, fishing, boating, and relaxing by the water in this landlocked state.
Scandinavian Heritage Park. North Dakota has a strong Scandinavian heritage, and this park celebrates and preserves that heritage. Located in the city of Minot, this park features replicas from all Scandinavian nations, such as a full-scale replica of a Norwegian stave church and a Danish windmill.
Bismarck. The capital city of North Dakota, Bismarck welcomes guests to enjoy its downtown scene as well as outdoor activities along the Missouri River. Walk or bike alongside the river or take a ride on the Lewis & Clark Riverboat. Try to also catch one of the festivals that celebrates Native American traditions and pioneer heritage.
Fargo. Set on the plains of eastern North Dakota, Fargo is a place where frontier history meets modern progress. Be sure to see the Fargo Theatre with its iconic neon marquee and regional art pieces at the Plains Art Museum.
Best Time to Visit North Dakota
The best time to visit North Dakota is in the summer, from June through August. Visitors will have the warmest weather, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities.
During the spring season (April-May) and fall season (September-October) expect crisp morning and evening temperatures with pleasant temperatures midday. This can be nice weather for hiking, and you can expect fewer people on the trails.
Places to Visit Near North Dakota
15 Amazing Things to Do in Badlands National Park (+ Map & Photos)
Discover the best things to do in Badlands National Park, in both the North and South units. We’ll also provide a map to help you plan your route, along with itinerary suggestions, where to stay, and helpful tips. Badlands National Park is one of the most highly underrated parks in the U.S. National Park system. […]
Complete Guide to Devils Tower: How to Plan Your Visit
Devils Tower National Monument is one of the most iconic landmarks in the United States. Sacred to Native Americans, popular road trip destination, and alien landing site a famous movie, Devils Tower evokes mystery and wonder from visitors of all ages. We spent a day at Devil’s Tower, visiting it on a day trip from […]
15 Things to Do in South Dakota near Mount Rushmore and Rapid City
The southwestern corner of South Dakota has a surprisingly long and wonderful list of things to do. Mount Rushmore, Badlands National Park, and Custer State Park are the big draws for many visitors to this part of the United States, but there is plenty more to keep you busy. In this post, we cover the […]
One Week South Dakota Itinerary: Black Hills & the Badlands
There are many different ways to spend one week in South Dakota. This itinerary focuses on the southwestern corner of the state, visiting sights located in and around the Black Hills. There is a long list of things to do in this part of South Dakota. Here are the things you will see on this […]
Custer State Park: Best Hikes, Scenic Drives & Things To Do
Discover the best things to do in Custer State Park, from its wildlife sightings along Wildlife Loop Road to epic hikes to the highest points in the park. We will also provide a map, a detailed one-day itinerary, plus important tips to help you have the best experience. Tucked away in the Black Hills of […]
Grand Teton, Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks: 10 Day Road Trip Itinerary
Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and Glacier National Parks are three of the most spectacular parks in the United States, and with 10 days, you can visit all three on one unforgettable road trip. Start in Grand Teton, where the lakes and the jagged mountain range create a hiker’s and photographer’s paradise. Journey north to Yellowstone, a […]
US National Parks
The Ultimate Guide to the 63 US National Parks
The US National Parks make an excellent travel destination, whether you are planning a cross-country road trip or a weekend getaway. In our guide to the national parks, get detailed trip planning information, advice on which parks to visit by season, and itineraries to help simplify your travel planning process.