Taking a drive is the perfect way to relax and enjoy the simpler things in life. It’s not something we do as much as we may have used to back in the day, but it is definitely still something you can do. Add in some beautiful scenery and interesting roadside stops and you’ve got yourself the perfect way to enjoy the day and clear your mind. North Dakota had quite a few scenic byways and backways, and this one was the very first and remains one of the very best:

North Dakota's first nationally designated scenic byway takes you through 64 beautiful miles of the Sheyenne River Valley. Click here for an interactive map of the route.
Google maps
The Sheyenne River Valley Scenic Byway has won national awards for its amazing route. The route goes from Lake Ashtabula to the town of Lisbon.
Jimmy Emerson/Flickr
All along the drive, you'll be following the Sheyenne River through farmland, forest, and small towns. This drive is a great one to take in the fall, but you can take it any time of year and find it enjoyable.
Jimmy Emerson/Flickr
From the start at Lake Ashtabula, you'll head south to Valley City, North Dakota, or the City of Bridges.
Andrew Filer/Flickr

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This is a great place to stop to explore the city, its many historic bridges, attractions like the Medicine Wheel Park, or grab a bite to eat at its many restaurants.
Kurt Haubrich/Flickr
After Valley City, you'll follow the river's path closely on back roads where you'll see picturesque countryside dotted with farms.
Jimmy Emerson/Flickr
After that, you'll pass through the small town of Kathryn, a place with a population just over 50.
Jimmy Emerson/Flickr
When you continue on, you'll find more charming scenery and some spots that almost feel too lovely to be real - like scenes from a movie.
Jimmy Emerson/Flickr
Near the end, you'll reach Fort Ransom State Park, followed by the tiny town of Fort Ransom, and then end at Lisbon not long after that. It's a great trip to take for a little slice of North Dakota life, from the gorgeous city to the small towns, and the farmland to the natural river valley views.
J. Stephen Conn/Flickr

You can find another great map and more information on the drive by clicking here. When you take this drive, you’ll definitely want to stop at Fort Ransom State Park. It’s one of the prettiest places to visit in North Dakota, especially late in the year when all the leaves have changed colors. Check it out here!

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Featured Addresses
Sheyenne River Valley National Scenic Byway, 100-416 I-94BL, Valley City, ND 58072, USA