North Dakota has some truly fantastic hikes, from majestic views overlooking massive lakes, to lovely strolls through wildflower-filled meadows. It’s no secret that some of the best hikes in the state are located in the badlands. However, one of the most amazing trails there is often overlooked – and it shouldn’t be. This hike will take you to a view you won’t forget:

To find this trail, you'll have to take a scenic drive through the North Unit of the Theodore Roosevelt National Park first.
rockyjoe/Tripadvisor
This scenic byway will take you through the rolling prairie hills, rugged badlands buttes, and everything else we know and love about this area.
Theodore Roosevelt National Park/Facebook
The unique landscape is gorgeous year round, and this drive alone is worth the trip. But it's the end destination we are heading towards.
JNFII/Tripadvisor
At the end of the drive, you'll find the Oxbow Overlook. Most people take in this view - a stunning one, no doubt - and call it good there. However, if you are prepared to take a fairly short, easy 1.5-mile hike, then you're in for a treat.
Citallwic/Tripadvisor

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Starting from the overlook, you'll head onto the Sperati Point trail. As you walk along you'll see glimpses of the valley you had just seen at the overlook, resulting in a pretty journey through every step you take.
Megg/Flickr
Don't be surprised if you end up sharing the trail with bison! As long as you keep your distance, these majestic creatures will likely do the same.
MSPtrailwalker/Tripadvisor
Finally, as you reach the end of the hike, you'll be able to start taking in the view at Sperati Point. This is a whole different perspective of the river valley that gets especially impressive in the fall when the patches of trees far down below are vibrant with color.
Larry P/Tripadvisor
If you thought the Oxbox Overlook view was impressive, you'll be blown away by the sight of this. The snaking Little Missouri River, the distant painted canyons, and the variety of prairie plants and animals all come together to form a natural masterpiece. You won't find a view like this anywhere else!
Michael James/Alltrails

You can reach the Sperati Point trail by driving through the Theodore Roosevelt National Park North Unit scenic byway, near Watford City, ND. For more information about the park, drive, and trail, click here.

This trail is just begging to be photographed – with a view like that, who wouldn’t grab a shot of it? If you do take this trail and photograph it, feel free to share it and your other North Dakota nature pictures in our North Dakota Nature Lovers group on Facebook!

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