North Dakota is a vastly underrated state; as a result, it's rarely ever crowded here, and our hiking trails are often pretty quiet. A hiking trail spans 4,800 miles across eight states, beginning in Vermont and ending right here in our own backyards at Lake Sakakawea State Park. It's the famed North Country National Scenic Trail, and 225 miles of it are all ours. Come check out one of the best hikes in North Dakota that happens to be one of the best hikes in seven other states, too!
There are three main parts to the North Dakota segment of the stunning North Country National Scenic Trail.
Let's take a look at these segments and appreciate the splendor that is the North Dakota countryside. This is one of THE best hikes in the state to really get a grip on just how beautiful it is up here.
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One of the chapters of the trail is the Central Flyway Chapter.
It's the westernmost end point of the trail and resides within Lake Sakakawea State Park, offering some truly unique perspectives of the park not often seen by most visitors.
The Sheyenne River Valley Chapter extends from the north end of Lake Ashtabula to the eastern boundary of the Sheyenne State Forest.
This is some of North Dakota's most scenic countryside, with rolling hills, shady groves, and sometimes even wildflowers when the time is right.
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Finally, the Dakota Prairie Chapter meanders from Lisbon to the Minnesota/North Dakota state line; this leg of the journey extends through - you guessed it - great miles of North Dakota's stunning prairie lands, helping hikers appreciate the beauty of our state.
The best news, perhaps, is that the trail is open all year and every season seems to bring something beautiful and new to the trail. Keep checking back as the weather changes; you're in for a treat no matter what time of year you come out in!
Though the trail is perfect for a long-haul hike with backpacking and camping included, one can always opt to break the trail into shorter segments to fit their needs.
You can break it into the three chapters, or you can create your own perfectly-planned hike. No matter what, the North Country National Scenic Trail is easily one of the best hikes in North Dakota for anyone who enjoys the great outdoors.
Make sure to bring plenty of water -- and maybe a hammock.
Hiding within a stunning North Dakota state park is an amazing place where autumn comes to life in every way imaginable. Here, you'll find an assortment of wondrous hikes that will fully immerse you in a world of autumn splendor you'll never want to leave; with as many state parks as we've got in the Peace Garden State, you can't really go wrong for foliage, but I'd like to introduce you to one of my favorite hikes for this time of year: the Cattail and Eco Loop.
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This breathtakingly beautiful hike is surrounded by stunning emerald-green foliage during the warmer months, so you KNOW it's going to be spectacular in the fall. And it sure is - it's sensational in every sense of the word.
The Cattail and Eco Loop is short, sweet, and to the point - it doesn't take terribly long to finish (about 40 minutes or so) unless you decide to make stops along the way to admire the beauty that surrounds you. For the record, I strongly recommend that. Autumn is beautiful, and we ought to stop and smell the roses (or maybe the foliage?).
You'll find yourself wandering through woods, open prairies, and wetlands, and the entire trail is wonderful for wildlife spotting - especially in the fall! Temperatures cool down rapidly beginning in September, and by November, the colors will likely be all gone until next year, so time your visit perfectly for the best experience.
This trail is known for being well-marked and beautifully maintained, and it's a pretty easy stroll, all things considered. You'll find yourself in a beautiful world where the trees are various shades of gold, orange, and red, and every day, the days will get just a little bit shorter (so plan your hikes accordingly).
Despite the cooler temperatures, I definitely suggest bringing along some insect repellent; insects can be thick on our trails, and this one's no exception. But, goodness, it's worth the effort - as relatively easy as said effort is.
For more information about this absolutely jaw-dropping autumn hike in North Dakota (plus lots more photos to show off just how beautiful this trail is), check out the official listing on AllTrails. If you'd like to take your hiking to the next level, I also suggest checking out AllTrails Plus. I don't know how I hiked without it before!
18 Best Hikes In North Dakota: The Top-Rated Hiking Trails To Visit In 2024
Discover the best hiking trails in North Dakota, offering stunning views, diverse landscapes, and varying difficulty levels for all outdoor enthusiasts.
Are you ready to discover the beauty of North Dakota's hiking trails? Look no further than our top picks for the best hikes in North Dakota to explore in 2024. With stunning canyons and peaceful prairies, there's something for every outdoor lover to enjoy. Whether seeking breathtaking views, wildlife sightings, or a challenging hike, North Dakota's trails have it all. Grab your hiking boots and backpack and get ready for an unforgettable hiking adventure in the Peace Garden State.
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Best Hikes in North Dakota
North Dakota may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of hiking, but there are some great trails to explore in the state. Wind Canyon Trail, Caprock Coulee Loop, and Painted Canyon Nature Trail are all popular options. Each trail offers its own unique scenery and challenges, making them great options for hikers of all skill levels. Whether you're looking for a quick day hike or a more challenging excursion, North Dakota has something to offer.
FYI: Enjoy the popular hiking and walking trail in Theodore Roosevelt National Park while relishing quiet moments during less busy hours. Please note that dogs are not allowed on this trail. Entry to the park requires a fee.
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The Wind Canyon Nature Trail is a family-friendly hike accessed from the park's Scenic Loop Road. It leads to an overlook of the Little Missouri River, making it a popular choice for sunset hikes. Short and scenic, it offers a delightful experience for all ages.
FYI: Popular hiking spot in Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Expect company year-round. Dogs not allowed. Park entrance fee. Beautiful trail anytime.
The Caprock Coulee Loop offers a hike through dry washes and provides beautiful views of the Little Missouri River. As you walk along the route, you'll be surrounded by the vibrant landscape of the badlands. And if you're lucky, you might spot some wildlife, including bison and big horn sheep. Just make sure to stay alert for rattlesnakes, especially on warm days.
FYI: Popular trail for birding, hiking, and walking in Theodore Roosevelt National Park. No dogs allowed. Fee to enter. Beautiful year-round.
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Get ready for a quick and fun hiking trail at Painted Canyon. Just off Interstate 94, this trail is perfect for breaking up a long drive and stretching those legs. Starting at the canyon rim, you'll dive into a jaw-dropping world of vibrant rock formations. However, be ready for some challenging sections when hiking back out. Don't miss this scenic trail and its epic views while passing through the area.
Best Short & Easy Hikes in North Dakota
North Dakota offers some great short and easy hikes for those who want to enjoy the outdoors without committing to a long trek. The Boicourt Overlook Trail, Coal Vein Trail, and White Butte North Dakota's Highpoint Trail, are a great start. These hikes offer beautiful views and are perfect for beginners or those looking for a quick getaway.
FYI: Popular hiking and walking area in Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Best times to visit: April to October. No dogs allowed. Entrance fee required.
When exploring North Dakota's badlands, don't miss the Boicourt Trail. It's super convenient, located right in the middle of the South Unit scenic drive. Take a breather from driving, stretch your legs, and enjoy the picturesque vistas on this accessible, paved trail over the badlands. Feeling adventurous? Venture further along the unpaved section for even more overlooks.
FYI: Popular trail for birding, hiking, and walking in Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Best times to visit: March to October. No dogs allowed. Entrance fee required. Enjoy solitude during quieter times. Keep an eye out for rattlesnakes.
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Discover the Coal Vein Trail, a straightforward hike with stairs that showcases how the coal fires shaped the landscape. It's a warm hike on sunny days and has limited shade, but the scenery makes it worthwhile. There are plenty of little jut-offs on the route with scenic overlooks, making it one of the most pretty landscapes of the paths.
FYI: Popular trail for birding, hiking, and running. Best times to visit: March to October. Dogs welcome, off-leash in some areas. Enjoy solitude during quieter times.
Don't miss the hidden gem, White Butte North Dakota's Highpoint Trail. The trail is easy to follow, there's convenient parking right by the trailhead, and remember to leave a donation for the landowner in the secure and clearly marked red receptacle. The hike is quick and easy, offering fantastic views at the top. It's a perfect spot for a sunset hike, as the hills block the sun from the west.
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Hardest Hikes in North Dakota
We've heard that North Dakota has some pretty challenging hikes! One that often comes up is the Achenbach Trail, known for its steep inclines and rocky terrain. Another tough one is the North Achenbach and Buckhorn Trail Loop, which has some amazing views but can be quite strenuous. For the truly adventurous, the Bennett-Maah Daah Hey-Cottonwood Loop is a real challenge, with rugged terrain and unpredictable weather. And if you're looking for a real workout, the Achenbach and Bison Trail Loop is definitely worth considering.
7. Achenbach, North Achenbach and Buckhorn Trail Loop
FYI: Ideal for backpacking, camping, and hiking. Best times: April to October. Limited crowds. No dogs allowed. Theodore Roosevelt National Park fee applies. Carry plenty of water.
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Embark on the adventurous 18.5-mile loop trail near Grassy Butte, North Dakota. Though very challenging, it offers incredible scenery, abundant wildlife, and a true backcountry experience. Expect rugged terrain and some bushwhacking, but it's worth it for the untouched beauty. Start counterclockwise at Juniper Campground and be prepared for two river crossings with potentially muddy water. Offline maps are essential, as some parts aren't clearly marked, especially near the south Achenbach. A memorable journey for those seeking a wilderness escape.
FYI: Perfect for backpacking, hiking, and running. Few crowds expected.
Experience the Bennett-Maah Daah Hey-Cottonwood Loop, a 15.3-mile trail near Grassy Butte, North Dakota. Though challenging, it offers rewarding backpacking, hiking, and running opportunities with well-defined and mostly easy-to-navigate trails. Enjoy breathtaking views of the badlands and a satisfying workout on this scenic adventure.
FYI: Ideal for backpacking, fishing, and hiking. Limited crowds expected. Best times: March to November. No dogs allowed. Park entrance fee applies. Carry sufficient water due to river sediment content and unreliable springs.
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Are you itching for an epic hike? Check out Bennett-Maah Daah Hey-Cottonwood Loop in Theodore Roosevelt National Park North Unit. This challenging trail spans the park's expansive west end, perfect for strenuous day hikes or backcountry backpacking. With two Little Missouri River crossings and a majority in the designated wilderness area, it promises scenic beauty and wildlife encounters. Though not a complete loop, the experience is worth it - there is a two-mile portion where you will have to road hike, hitchhike, or arrange a second vehicle. Enjoy the uphill climbs, coulee descents, and breathtaking vistas.
Best Waterfront Hikes in North Dakota
Some of the best waterfront hikes in North Dakota include the Harmon Lake Trail, McDowellDam Loop, and Fort Stevenson Loop. These trails offer stunning views of lakes, rivers, and dams, and are perfect for nature lovers looking to get some exercise while enjoying the great outdoors.
FYI: Popular for birding, mountain biking, and walking. Solitude possible during off-peak hours. Best times: May to October. Dogs allowed off-leash in certain spots.
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Harmon Lake Trail is an 8.3-mile loop near Mandan, North Dakota. Moderately challenging, the trail takes a few hours to complete. Loved by birders, mountain bikers, and walkers, it offers a fun excursion through curvy, twisty, and rocky open prairies. Enjoy the scenic rolling plains, hills, and trees, which are particularly captivating in the fall. Keep an eye out for bikers along the way.
FYI: Ideal for birding, fishing, and hiking. Minimal crowds during exploration.
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McDowell Dam Loop is a leisurely 2.7-mile easy trail near Bismarck, North Dakota. The well-maintained path offers panoramic views and a mix of hilly and level terrain. You'll find plenty of resting spots along the way, making it a delightful hike with an average completion time of around an hour.
FYI: Perfect for camping, cross-country skiing, and fishing. Secluded and uncrowded for exploration. Dogs allowed on a leash.
Fort Stevenson Loop is a 10.8-mile loop trail near Garrison, North Dakota. It's a great hike with low elevation, perfect for some relaxed outdoor time. If you know the right spots along the route, you'll be able to enjoy epic sunset and sunrise views. Just a heads up, wear long pants from summer to fall, as the grass can get a bit overgrown on the trail. But trust us, the scenery makes it all worth it.
Best Winter Hikes in North Dakota
North Dakota has some of the best winter hikes for nature enthusiasts. Long X to Maah Daah Hey Loop, Ma-ak-oti Trail, and Turtle River Nature Trail are some of the hidden gems. These trails are perfect for those looking to get some fresh air during the winter season.
FYI: Ideal for backpacking, hiking, and snowshoeing. Secluded and serene for exploration. Dogs allowed on a leash. Open year-round with captivating scenery.
Check out the Long X to Maah Daah Hey Loop. It's a dream for mountain bikers, but hikers will love it too, and the views of the Little Missouri River Valley and the badlands are stunning. The trail winds through wooded areas along the river and opens to expansive grasslands on higher grounds, offering a truly diverse experience in the North Dakota wilderness.
FYI: Favored for birding, camping, and hiking. Find moments of tranquility during off-peak hours.
Head out and explore the Ma-ak-oti Trail in Cross Ranch State Park, a 5.2-mile loop near Washburn, North Dakota. It's an easy route, taking under two hours to complete. Perfect for a relaxed hike and some quality time in nature. In winter, it's a hit for snowshoeing fun. The trail's well maintained, and you'll love the trail system with easy smaller hills - a great option for the whole family.
FYI: Ideal for camping, cross-country skiing, and hiking. Solitude assured on the trail. Open year-round, offering stunning scenery. Dogs allowed on leash.
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Explore the exciting Turtle River Nature Trail, offering a variety of recreational activities like cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, trail biking, and fishing. Located near Grand Forks, it's a perfect getaway for outdoor enthusiasts. Remember, there's a fee, but season passes are available, so don't hesitate to ask the ranger about getting one and enjoy this fantastic trail all year round.
Best Hikes near Bismarck
If you're looking for great hiking near Bismarck, there are a few trails that come to mind. The Fort Lincoln Loop Trail is a popular choice, offering scenic views of the Missouri River and a glimpse into North Dakota's history. The Missouri Valley Millennium Legacy Trail is another option, spanning over 50 miles. For a shorter hike, the East Sibley Nature Path is a lovely trail through the woods, with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife.
FYI: Perfect for camping, hiking, and running. Secluded and serene. Leashed dogs are welcome on the trail.
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Wander along the laid-back Fort Lincoln Loop Trail, perfect for families with easy terrain. Discover the area's rich history and fascinating sights in the park. The infantry towers offer great views of the area and don't miss climbing the block house stairs for more scenery. Pay the standard state park fee or get an annual pass and enjoy excellent vistas of the Missouri River.
FYI: Ideal for cross-country skiing, fishing, and road biking. Find tranquility during off-peak hours. Open year-round, perfect for dogs on leashes.
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Missouri Valley Millennium Legacy Trail offers easy access from the city with a fully paved path, attracting bikers and trail runners alike. Family-friendly with playgrounds, picnic shelters, and volleyball courts. Enjoy a pleasant balance of sun and shade for comfortable outings, even on warm days.
FYI: Perfect for hiking and walking with limited crowds.
East Sibley Nature Park offers a pleasant 1.1-mile loop near Bismarck, North Dakota. The easy route takes about 19 minutes and is ideal for hiking and walking. Enjoy the well-kept, wide trail surrounded by trees and scenic spots along the river. Just be cautious near the cliff edges by the water.
Have you had the chance to explore any of these North Dakota hiking trails? If so, do you think any stand out as the best for North Dakota hiking? We’re excited to hear your thoughts on the best hiking trails in North Dakota!
