You Haven’t Lived Until You’ve Experienced This One Incredible Scenic Drive In North Dakota

The perfect way to get out and see the beauty that is North Dakota can be as simple as going for a drive. One of the best scenic drives in North Dakota is a picturesque backway positively surrounded by natural splendor. It may be exactly what you need to get out, clear your mind, and just enjoy all that North Dakota has to offer. You need to put this drive on your to-do list!

The Des Lacs NWR Scenic Backway follows a stretch of road right along the Des Lacs Lakes.

One of the best scenic drives in North Dakota, this backway branches off of Highway 52 and trails along the water, through the town of Kenmare, and then ends at County Road 1. From there you can head north and get back onto Highway 52.

The route will take you through the rolling prairie hills surrounding the lakes.

The Des Lacs National Wildlife Refuge is made up of almost 20,000 acres of protected land along the Des Lacs River and is known not only for its natural beauty, but also for being a place visited by thousands of migratory birds each year.

Take a stop throughout the drive to see the spectacular views and snap a few photos.

Along the route you'll find information interpretive panels that will tell you about the land and the wildlife you might spot here. This is definitely a drive you won't want to rush through, so take your time and take in the sights.

The best part about this drive and area is that it is full of wildlife.

Moose, deer, beavers, pelicans and over 250 species of other birds can be spotted here - among many more creatures that are too many to list! It is well known for being so abundant with life, some that would be hard to find in other parts of the state.

The best time to go on this drive is in the spring or fall when this area is full of migratory birds.

The Des Lacs NWR is always full of birds when their annual migrations are occurring. Thousands of snow geese and tundra swans stop here and create a spectacle big enough that the nearby town of Kenmare hosts a Goosefest every fall.

No matter when you take the drive, you're in for an amazing experience.

Find more information about this scenic backway here, and more information about the Des Lacs NRW here. Do you agree that the Des Lacs NRW is one of the best scenic drives in North Dakota? Be sure to share your thoughts with us in the comments below -- we'd love to hear from you!

If you're interested in other scenic drives in North Dakota, why not try this great road trip that'll take you through some of the state's small towns?