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Take A Meandering Scenic Drive To A North Dakota Overlook That’s Like Something Out Of A Movie

North Dakota's North Unit Scenic Byway offers a breathtaking drive through Theodore Roosevelt National Park, culminating at the stunning River Bend Overlook.

Published Mar 16, 2022

Written by 

Tori Jane

It's official: North Dakota is a state for nature lovers. Okay, so maybe we just decided that right now, but still, the point stands. But let's face it: our state isn't exactly known for its mountains and vistas, but it is known for its incredible wildlands, hills, canyons, valleys, and other breathtaking natural features. We found an amazing scenic drive that leads you through North Dakota's most famous attraction - beautiful Theodore Roosevelt National Park - and it takes you to what is probably the best view in the state, too. Take a meandering scenic drive to River Bend Overlook in North Dakota; you won't regret it, especially if you're a fan of wonder and awe.

There are numerous scenic drives within Theodore Roosevelt National Park, but for this one, we'll be embarking upon the North Unit Scenic Byway.

A scenic view of rolling hills and a winding river under a blue sky with scattered clouds.
alpw/TripAdvisor

It's a 14-mile-long drive that takes riders through some of North Dakota's last remaining wilderness as well as Badlands, prairies, and more.

The drive begins at the north entrance station and extends to the amazing Oxbow Overlook.

A scenic view from a stone structure overlooking a lush valley and winding river under a partly cloudy sky.
Jasperdo/Flickr

At some point, you'll reach River Bend Overlook, and we strongly suggest you get out of the car for this one!

It's literally one of THE best overlooks in the entire state, with amazing sweeping views of our most beloved National Park.

A scenic view of a winding path leading to a rustic cabin on a hill, surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills.
Jasperdo/Flickr

The shelter present at the Overlook offers education and insight as well as respite from rain or shine. The drive is open year-round, so it helps to have cover when it's snowing, raining, or anything else.

No matter the weather, this overlook is worth a gander.

A scenic view of rolling hills and a winding river, surrounded by greenery under a clear blue sky.
Grover R/TripAdvisor

...and honestly, if you ask us, we kind of feel like rainy days might be some of the best days for this little gem. Few things are as breathtaking as cloud bases so low that they loom over the tops of the canyon walls.

As you continue along the Byway, you may encounter all kinds of delightful wildlife like bison and migrating birds.

A textured rock formation with wavy patterns and patches of color, surrounded by sparse vegetation and hills.
Carol A S/TripAdvisor

The park (and the drive through the park) is filled with fascinating geography and intriguing geology. Be sure to get yourself a roadside geology book or map to learn more about what's going on in the world around your car.

...if that's not exactly your thing, we get it. No worries: there's plenty of value in simply enjoying the view.

A scenic view of rolling hills and a river, with a rainbow arching across a partly cloudy sky.
Smiledoctorsmile/TripAdvisor

Want more information? Check out the details on the official NPS.gov website or the official North Dakota Tourism page. Have you ever driven to (or hiked) the River Bend Overlook in North Dakota? Tell us about your experience in the comments! What's your favorite scenic drive in North Dakota?

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