The Stunning North Dakota Drive That Is One Of The Best Road Trips You Can Take In America
Did you know that some of the best scenic drives in the United States can be found in beautiful North Dakota? It’s true; our stunning little state is home to no less than 13 wonderful scenic drives, all of which are worthy of a day trip on their own. For now, let’s focus on one of the awe-inspiring scenic drives in North Dakota that doesn’t tend to get enough attention. Nestled within western North Dakota is the Killdeer Mountain Four Bears Scenic Byway, a 64-mile stretch of beautiful road that’s calling your name right… about… now. This is one scenic drive in North Dakota you cannot afford to miss.
You'll start your adventure north of Manning, North Dakota.
Grab some snacks, buckle that seat belt, and let's roll.
You'll ultimately end up in Killdeer or Newtown, depending on how you choose to explore, but not before experiencing some super-cool stuff along the way.
There are plentiful points of interest all the way along this drive; you could easily turn a one-day trip into a multi-day trip, should you play your cards right.
Spanning 64 miles total, this western North Dakota scenic drive is one that, much like the rest of the state, doesn't see as much popularity as it probably deserves.
Oh, well - that just means more peace and quiet for those of us who know what North Dakota's all about. There are several wonderful stops to be made along the way, so let's check some of them out!
During your adventure, you'll float past several significant locations, like Little Missouri State Park.
There are more than 45 miles of breathtaking trails weaving all over the park, which showcases some of the wild beauty of North Dakota's Badlands without the hustle and bustle (well...for North Dakota standards, anyway) of larger parks like Theodore Roosevelt National Park.
The Badlands are on full display all along this entire drive; it's impossible not to fall in love with the rugged beauty of the North American continent, especially with views like these.
Other points of interest along the route include the Crow Flies High Butte Overlook, where you'll be treated to epic views of Lake Sakakawea, and the Killdeer Battlefield State Historic Site is a favorite among history buffs and road trip enthusiasts alike.
Also along the way is the Lake Ilo National Wildlife Refuge, where invaluable contributions to the conservation of local wildlife - particularly birds - are made.
Whether you choose to take it north-to-south or south-to-north, the Killdeer Mountain Four Bears Scenic Byway is a treat and a half. Don’t hesitate to stop as much as you want; after all, what’s the point of a road trip other than relaxation? Might as well take it slow and enjoy every moment. For more information about this route, check out the official North Dakota Tourism website.
Tori Jane Ostberg plays with tornadoes for fun. When she's not out chasing the biggest and baddest storms mama nature has to offer, she can usually be found writing something, somewhere, or exploring the United States with her camera.
