It’s a shame that most people stereotype North Dakota as being mostly flat. The truth of the matter is that they don’t have any idea what they’re missing. From the rugged badlands to the gently rolling hills of the prairie pothole region to the huge and beautiful river valleys that make up the state, there is a little bit of everything. You don’t have to travel the world to see unimaginably gorgeous natural settings. You can stay right here in the Peace Garden State for that. Don’t believe me? Then you haven’t visited the following places. They’re some of the most beautiful places in North Dakota.

1. Chase Lake National Wildlife Refuge
Chase Lake National Wildlife Refuge, Tappen, ND 58487, USA
Rick Bohn/USFWS Mountain-Prairie/Flickr
This large lake near Medina, North Dakota becomes a bird paradise during certain times of the year. Thousands upon thousands of birds, specifically white pelicans, nest here. It is an amazing sight to behold in person. That, and the lake itself, is stunning.
2. Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota, USA
Justin Meissen/Flickr
This place needs no introduction. North Dakota's most famous and popular park rests in the western region and is visited by thousands of people every year. The painted canyons of the badlands here are mesmerizing to see. Exploring this spectacular place brings beauty at every turn and a whole lot of bison and wild horses, too.

This utterly incredible video tour of Theodore Roosevelt National Park is absolutely worth watching, especially if you can't make it out yourself:
3. Beaver Lake State Park
3850 70th St SE, Wishek, ND 58495, USA
ND Parks and Recreation Department/Flickr
This scenic lake is located near Wishek, North Dakota, and is a picture-perfect waterside destination. Whether you want to take a stroll along the trails around the lake or jump into the water at the beach, Beaver Lake is undeniably pretty and a lot of fun.
4. Sullys Hill National Game Preserve
Sullys Hill National Game Preserve Visitor Center, St Michael, ND 58370, USA
Beatnik Photos/Flickr
Right on the edges of North Dakota's largest natural lake, Devils Lake, is this truly breathtaking preserved area. Trails up through the dense trees will take you to the top of Sullys Hill where you can see the best view of the lake possible.
5. Lake Sakakawea
Lake Sakakawea, North Dakota, USA
ND Parks and Recreation Department/Flickr
North Dakota's other largest lake, this time man-made, is Lake Sakakawea. It's hard to beat the recreational opportunities at this lake, and it's also hard to deny how gorgeous it truly is. You can experience it at places like Fort Stevenson State Park, Lake Sakakawea State Park, or Lewis and Clark State Park.

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6. Pembina Gorge
Pembina Gorge State Recreation Area Trailhead, 11950 Co Hwy 55, Walhalla, ND 58282, USA
ND Parks and Recreation Department/Flickr
If you're looking for the perfect fall destination for future leaf-peeping excursions, this is the place you absolutely must go. The Pembina Gorge is near Walhalla, North Dakota, and has awe-inspiring views like this one. You don't even need to plan your visit during the fall months for this area to look this pretty. You can actually visit year-round and experience how lovely it truly is.
7. Fort Ransom State Park
Fort Ransom State Park, Walt Hjelle Parkway, Fort Ransom, ND, USA
ND Parks and Recreation Department/Flickr
Take a trip into this fantastic state park near the adorable little town of Fort Ransom, North Dakota. The Sheyenne River creates the perfect valley of rolling hills and secret meadows tucked away among the trees. The park offers plenty of trails, cabins, yurts, and campgrounds for you to experience for yourself.
8. Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park
Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park, 4480 Fort Lincoln Rd, Mandan, ND 58554, USA
ND Parks and Recreation Department/Flickr
This state park contains awesome natural sights, in addition to a deep and well-preserved history. It is located near Mandan, North Dakota, and has a few key spots that make it stand out from the rest. The fort itself is fun to visit, as is the beautiful On-A-Slant village along the river. That, plus great trails and the state's only trolley ride, you've got a place worthy of your bucket list.
9. Chautauqua Park
933 12th St NE, Valley City, ND 58072, USA
MNDoodles/Tripadvisor
Take in the sight of this record-breaking bridge along a scenic riverfront in Valley City, North Dakota. This quaint little park offers the perfect view of the Hi-Line Railroad Bridge. It's also a peaceful place to have a picnic and take in the beautiful surrounding scenery.
10. Lake Metigoshe
Lake Metigoshe, Roland, ND 58318, USA
ND Parks and Recreation Department/Flickr
Tucked away in the Turtle Mountains of North Dakota is this absolutely jaw-dropping lake. It's no surprise why this is one of the state's most popular destinations. It will almost make you feel like you've stepped into some enchanted forest with secret ponds and creeks, and of course, the big and beautiful Lake Metigoshe itself. This area is especially great in the fall when the vivid colors are reflected in the calm waters below.
11. Cross Ranch State Park
Cross Ranch State Park, 1403 River Rd, Center, ND 58530, USA
ND Parks and Recreation Department/Flickr
Experience one of the last untouched stretches of the mighty Missouri River at this state park near Hensler, North Dakota. Don't be surprised if you see quite a bit of wildlife while you're here. Bison, deer, and plenty of fascinating birds can be spotted at Cross Ranch State Park.

Where else in North Dakota would you consider a must-see place? There are plenty of gorgeous locations here, it’s hard to name them all. That’s part of what makes North Dakota “legendary” after all.

There’s a lot more where this came from and we even put together a road trip to explore some of these natural scenic places here in the Peace Garden State.

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More to Explore

Most Beautiful Places In North Dakota

Jennifer Young | May 26, 2022

What's one of the prettiest places in North Dakota that's perfect for a family day trip?

North Dakota is filled with many pretty places that are perfect for a day trip, including several parks.

  • One park in particular is Theodore Roosevelt National Park, which is the only American national park that was named after a single person. Theodore Roosevelt National Park is located in western North Dakota and is one of the state's most popular outdoor attractions.
  • Covering more than 70,000 acres, this national park is filled with lots of beautiful scenery and is a great family destination. Theodore Roosevelt National Park offers a variety of activities for all ages including hiking, birding, horseback riding, camping, and so much more.

 

There are several amazing things to see in North Dakota including which three landmarks?

If you've ever wondered what to see in North Dakota, wonder no more. While in North Dakota, you'll encounter a variety of landmarks. Listed below are three we believe everyone should experience at least once.

With an elevation of 3,506 feet, White Butte is the highest natural point in North Dakota. Located in the southwestern part of the state, this majestic mountain offers incredible views and is one of North Dakota's most beautiful natural landmarks.

Fort Union Trading Post National Historical Site is located in Williston, North Dakota. Covering 444 acres, North Dakota's Fort Union Trading Post was the most important fur trade post on the Upper Missouri River between the years 1828 and 1867. This landmark is an absolute must-visit for anyone wanting to learn about North Dakota history.

Located in Jamestown, North Dakota is the "World's Largest Buffalo" monument, circa 1959. This sculpture, which stands in Frontier Village, is 26-feet tall and weighs 60 tons. It can be seen from I-94 above the James River Valley. No visit to Jamestown is complete without capturing a picture alongside this massive sculpture.

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