8 Magnificent Trails You Have To Hike In North Dakota Before You Die
The bitter cold temperatures we’ve been experiencing here in North Dakota have me dreaming about summer again, and I am already planning and looking forward to some hiking trips through some of the state’s most peaceful and scenic nature as soon as winter ends next year. If you’re planning on doing the same, here are 8 of the best trails to get the most optimal, beautiful views of the Peace Garden State that will make the winter worthwhile to get through:
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
To get the most perfect vantage point of the On-A-Slant Village near Mandan, take this trail in the Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park. It offers beautiful views of both the village and the river it lies next to.
One of the most memorable trails in Theodore Roosevelt National Park is definitely the Wind Canyon Trail. Plan to hike this one so that you get to the end at sunset, because the view you get of the Little Missouri River and the badlands bluffs surrounding it with the sun setting over it is like nothing you've ever seen before.
Explore the tall prairie grasses and wildflowers on this serene trail through Beaver Lake State Park near Napoleon, North Dakota. It's a great place for a peaceful stroll to put your mind at ease.
The Old Oak Trail is true to its name. It is the oldest national recreation trail in North Dakota, having been the first founded in the state. It is located near the always-beautiful Lake Metigoshe, surrounded by pristine marshes and woodlands.
The Theodore Roosevelt National Park has so many great trails, and another that deserves to be hiked by everyone is the Painted Canyon Nature Trail. This trail will put you into the canyons and among the unique landscape of the park, including the famous Painted Canyons. It is truly stunning, so bring your camera for this one!
The North Country National Scenic Trail actually spans hundreds of miles across northeastern and north midwestern states, starting in New York and ending right here at the Lake Sakakawea State Park in North Dakota. The North Dakota section begins near Wahpeton and traverses the plains and prairies the state is known for.
Take a stroll along the Missouri River in Cross Ranch State Park near Center, North Dakota. This trail showcases the unique plants and animals found in the area and is a great way to experience the different types of natural settings in North Dakota.
Fort Ransom State Park is full of absolutely amazing sights. The forested areas cover the gently rolling hills in such a way that when you view them from a vantage point like this trail, your breath will be taken away. It's only about two miles long and a great way to enjoy the outdoors.
What are some of your favorite natural places to see in North Dakota?
Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean you have to stay indoors (unless the temperature is unsafe to be out in, of course), there are great trails in the state to go on in the wintertime that are open for regular hiking, snowshoeing, or cross country skiing. Check them out right here!
Leah moved to North Dakota when she was 12 years old and has traveled from the Red River Valley to the badlands and many places in between. She loves small-town life and currently enjoys living on a small farm in the ND prairie. She's always had a passion for writing and has participated in novel writing challenges such as NaNoWriMo multiple times. Her favorite part about this job is recognizing small businesses that deserve a boost and seeing the positive affect her articles can have on their traffic, especially in rural areas that might have otherwise gone overlooked.
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