Best things to do on a North Dakota Road Trip

Anyone looking for an engaging mix of culture and natural beauty won’t be disappointed when visiting North Dakota. This Midwestern state has plenty to explore and an abundance of landscapes to admire. Theodore Roosevelt once called North Dakota "a world of beauty and color and limitless space". Even though over a century has passed since his descriptive quotation, the Peace Garden State remains largely unchanged, offering miles of painted canyons, grassy trails and pristine lakes.

If you like the outdoors – and don’t mind a little wind chill – you’ll find lots to do in North Dakota. But don’t worry if you prefer to soak up the indoor sights, there are plenty of those too.

From Medora on the far western side of the state to Fargo on the eastern border, here are a few North Dakota experiences that will leave you as enamored as our 26th president.

Stop #1: Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Spanning more than 70,000 total acres, you can spend days enjoying North Dakota at Theodore Roosevelt National Park. The highlight of any trip to North Dakota, once here, you’ll find yourself never wanting to leave.

The park is divided into three sections: the North Unit, the South Unit and the Elkhorn Ranch Unit. Whether you visit the busier southern area near Medora or the northern unit near Watford City, you can hike along majestic canyons and prairies, soaking up views that go on for miles. Keep an eye out for bison, bighorn sheep, prairie dogs and the nearly 200 types of birds.

Off the dirt trail, take a canoe or kayak trip along the Little Missouri River. Plan a day trip from Medora and paddle from Sully Creek State Park to Cottonwood Campground. The park also offers ample opportunities for backcountry camping, fishing and cross-country skiing.

Mountain bikers can cycle the Maah Daah Hey Trail, a 144-mile dirt path that connects the park's southern and northern units. The hiking trails are not to be missed, and for those who are wanting to take in the incredible views from the comfort of your car, take one of the scenic drives through the area. You’ll still get to admire the beauty that Theodore Roosevelt National Park has on show.

Stop #2: Enchanted Highway

About 90 miles west of Bismarck, turn off I-94 at exit 72 to discover seven huge sculptures conceived by retired educator Gary Greff, who wanted to draw more people to his tiny town of Regent, as well as encourage more tourism to the state.

Starting in Gladstone at exit 72, you'll observe the largest scrap metal sculpture in the world, Geese in Flight, as well as Deer Crossing, Grasshoppers in the Field, Fisherman’s Dream, Pheasants on the Prairie and other towering figures created mostly from metal. It's one of the finest displays of public art you'll see in the middle of nowhere. If you want to make time to stop at every sculpture along the route, it will take around five to six hours to complete the drive.

Stop #3: Lake Metigoshe State Park

A departure in landscape and miles from Theodore Roosevelt National Park, Lake Metigoshe provides an idyllic spot for vacationers to enjoy a favorite local pastime – spending a weekend at the lake.

Situated 200 miles north of Bismarck near the Canadian border, nestled among the natural beauty of Turtle Mountains, Lake Metigoshe offers a beach for sunbathing, nice cabins and opportunities for canoeing and walleye fishing. Campground amenities include electrical hookups, showers, a kitchen, a playground and picnic areas.

Fancy hitting the well-trodden path and embarking on a hike? There are more than 12 miles of hiking and biking trails. During the winter, visitors can also take advantage of the colder weather, with a range of seasonal activities available including cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and sledding.

Stop #4: International Peace Garden

Summer is a great time to visit this tribute to peace between the U.S. and Canada, when the vegetation blossoms with yellow, orange and purple perennials and annuals. Located near the Canadian border off Highway 281 in the heart of the Turtle Mountains, the International Peace Garden provides space for reflection, a family picnic or a short hike. Stop by in April or May to see the cactus gardens in bloom. For those looking for a little fun on the water, there are lakes here too, offering a range of water activities including canoeing and kayaking.

Stop #5: Fargo

Fargo is the kind of town where friendly locals smile and wave at one another. When the weather is mild, venture out to bike, walk or run the extensive trails around town. During chillier seasons, sled, snowshoe or ski on cross-country ski trails throughout the city or visit one of the many outdoor hockey and ice-skating rinks.

Arts lovers can explore Fargo's many museums, galleries and entertainment venues. The historic Fargo Theatre offers performing arts, film, comedy and community events in Art Deco surroundings. Plains Art Museum features contemporary and traditional works, while several small galleries display the talent of local and visiting artists.

What North Dakota lacks in population density it more than makes up for with breathtaking natural surroundings. If you miss seeing the stars at night, then make North Dakota your next vacation destination.

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