The best walks and hikes in North Dakota

Embark on the Raven's Ravine Loop for an easy 2.2-mile (3.5 km) hike that takes you through a beautiful wooded ravine. You will experience a pleasant nature walk, winding alongside a creek and crossing a bridge at the northern end of the route. With only 41 feet (13 metres) of elevation gain, this trail is perfect for a quick outing, typically completed in about 53 minutes.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is generally accessible and suitable for a leisurely experience. You will find parking conveniently available right at the trailhead. For the most vibrant scenery, consider hiking in the fall when the foliage is at its peak, or during winter if you enjoy snowshoeing or fat tire biking on groomed paths.

What makes this loop special is its unique adaptability for year-round enjoyment. The path is well-maintained and even groomed for winter activities, allowing you to explore the ravine's natural beauty whether the trees are green, ablaze with autumn colors, or covered in snow. It offers a consistent outdoor escape within Turtle River State Park.

Embark on the Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park Loop for a moderate hike that offers a blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. This 7.9-mile (12.7 km) route takes you through varied terrain, including hills and some steep sections, rewarding your effort with panoramic views of the Missouri and Heart River bottoms. You will gain 462 feet (141 metres) in elevation, and the entire journey typically takes around 3 hours and 22 minutes to complete, allowing you to immerse yourself in the scenic prairies and woodlands.

When planning your visit, consider hiking between April and October to enjoy the best conditions, though it is wise to avoid the peak summer heat due to limited shade along parts of the trail. Parking is conveniently available within the state park, making access straightforward. If you plan to bring your dog, remember they are welcome but must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet for everyone's safety and enjoyment.

What makes this trail particularly special is its rich historical context, allowing you to step back in time as you hike. You will encounter significant landmarks like the reconstructed Mandan earthlodges at the On-A-Slant Indian Village, offering a glimpse into indigenous history. Further along, you can explore the historic Fort Abraham Lincoln, once home to Lieutenant Colonel George Armstrong Custer, adding a layer of frontier history to your outdoor adventure.

Embark on an easy hike along the Missouri River Nature Trail, a gentle route that stretches 2.7 miles (4.3 km) with a minimal elevation gain of just 19 feet (6 metres). You can expect to complete this relaxing journey in about 1 hour and 5 minutes. As you walk, you will find yourself surrounded by native river-bottom woodland, offering picturesque views of the Missouri River. The terrain is flat and the surface is wide and mostly level, making for a comfortable experience.

Planning your visit to the Missouri River Nature Trail is straightforward. Parking is generally available, providing you with easy access to the trailhead. This route is known for being very pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your dog along for the adventure. Its gentle grade and multi-use nature also make it an excellent choice if you are looking for a family-friendly hike.

This trail is nestled within the Missouri River Natural Area, providing a wonderful opportunity to connect with the local ecosystem. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife; you might spot deer and various bird species as you explore this natural setting. The trail's accessibility and serene environment make it a perfect escape for anyone seeking a peaceful outdoor experience by the river.

The Forest River Loop invites you to a peaceful hiking experience, offering a refreshing break within natural surroundings. You can enjoy a tranquil walk through pleasant forest environments, with potential glimpses of the river as you follow the path. This easy route covers 1.3 miles (2.0 km) with a gentle elevation gain of just 16 feet (5 metres), typically taking around 30 minutes to complete.

Located within Forest River Park in Fargo, North Dakota, the trailhead is easily accessible for your convenience. You will generally find parking available at the park entrances; however, it is always wise to check local park signs upon arrival for any specific instructions. There are no permits or fees mentioned for accessing this loop, making it a straightforward option for a spontaneous outdoor activity.

This trail stands out as a great spot to enjoy a short, tranquil outdoor experience, providing a quick immersion in nature. It offers a simple way to connect with the natural environment and enjoy a moment of calm away from the city. The loop is particularly suitable if you are seeking a brief, undemanding hike.

Embark on an easy hike along the Petrified Forest to Overlook trail, a 2.6-mile (4.1 km) route that offers a gentle exploration of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. You'll experience diverse terrain, from flat prairie sections to undulating badlands, gaining a modest 219 feet (67 metres) in elevation. Keep an eye out for ancient petrified logs scattered among unique rock formations as you make your way. The journey culminates at a scenic overlook, providing expansive views of the rugged landscape. This easy hike typically takes about 1 hour and 7 minutes to complete, making it a perfect short adventure.

Access to the Petrified Forest to Overlook trail is generally straightforward, with parking available near the trailhead. However, be aware that some sections are considered unmarked and cross-country, so carrying a topographic map for navigation is highly recommended. You might encounter route-finding challenges as paths can be vague or even non-existent in places. If you plan to visit during summer, be prepared for intense heat and always carry enough water to stay hydrated.

This trail offers a unique opportunity to witness the geological history of the region through its scattered petrified logs. Beyond the fossilized wood, the route provides glimpses of potential petroglyphs, adding an ancient cultural layer to your outdoor experience. The trail's blend of natural beauty and historical elements makes it a notable option for those seeking a distinctive hike within the park.

The Chimney Park Bike Path offers an easy hiking experience, stretching 1.7 miles (2.8 km) with a minimal elevation gain of just 17 feet (5 metres). You can expect a pleasant stroll that takes around 42 minutes to complete, making it perfect for a quick outdoor escape. While specific landmarks are not detailed, you will likely enjoy views of the local Medora landscape, possibly featuring open spaces or light tree cover, providing a gentle atmosphere for your walk.

Planning your visit is straightforward for this accessible route. You should find parking available conveniently near the trailhead, making access simple. No specific permits or fees are mentioned for hiking this path, so you can enjoy it without extra hassle. Always remember to check local conditions before you head out, especially regarding weather, as seasonal changes can affect your experience.

This trail is a great option if you are looking for a relaxed walk to stretch your legs and enjoy some fresh air in the Medora area. It stands out as an easy and quick way to immerse yourself in the local environment without a strenuous commitment. The route provides a gentle introduction to the region's outdoor offerings, ideal for unwinding after exploring other nearby attractions.

Embark on the Ekblom Trail for an easy hike that introduces you to the diverse scenery of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. This gentle route spans 1.2 miles (1.9 km) with a minimal elevation gain of only 9 feet (3 metres), typically taking about 29 minutes to complete. You will experience a pleasant transition from a lush forest to the banks of the Little Missouri River, then continue through open areas where a large prairie dog town thrives.

When planning your visit, be aware that crossing the Little Missouri River is a key part of the experience; depending on water levels, you might need to step on stones or get your feet wet, so waterproof footwear is a good idea. The most comfortable times to hike the trail are usually spring and fall, when temperatures are milder. Summers can bring intense heat and thunderstorms, while winters are marked by snow and extreme cold.

This trail provides a fantastic opportunity for wildlife spotting, especially within the active prairie dog town beyond the river. It showcases the vibrant badlands scenery characteristic of the park, offering a compact yet rich experience of its unique ecosystem. The Ekblom Trail serves as an excellent introduction to the park's natural beauty and its fascinating inhabitants.

The Orchard Glen Loop offers an easy and refreshing hike, perfect for a quick outdoor escape. This gentle route covers 1.2 miles (2.0 km) with a minimal elevation gain of just 26 feet (8 metres), taking about 30 minutes to complete. As you walk, you'll discover peaceful riverbank views along the Red River, transitioning into serene forested areas. The trail's highlight is its journey through a former apple orchard, now featuring a variety of fruit trees like juneberries, cherries, pears, and plums, creating a pleasant atmosphere.

Planning your visit to Orchard Glen is straightforward, as the park provides convenient parking right at the trailhead. You'll also find picnic areas available if you wish to extend your stay. Dogs are welcome to join you on the trail, but remember to keep them on a leash and clean up after them to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone. Consider visiting during specific seasons if you're interested in harvesting fruit from the orchard for personal use.

This trail is notable for its unique blend of natural beauty and historical agricultural use. Depending on the time of year, you might witness vibrant pink blossoms in spring, lush summer greenery, or brilliant autumn colors. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including various bird species and pollinators, which are attracted to the diverse plant life, especially around the fruit trees.

Embark on an easy hike along the Prairie Dog Town via Buckhorn Trail, a 1.0-mile (1.5 km) route that takes approximately 23 minutes to complete. You will experience a gentle elevation gain of just 20 feet (6 metres) as you explore the unique badlands scenery of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. The path guides you directly to a bustling prairie dog town, offering a chance to observe these fascinating creatures up close. Beyond the prairie dogs, you can take in views of layered hills and distinctively shaped rock formations that define the landscape. This short and accessible trail provides a quick immersion into the park's natural beauty.

Planning your visit to this trail is straightforward, making it an excellent choice for a quick outing or families. The trailhead is conveniently located at Caprock Coulee, where you will find ample parking for your vehicle. Restroom facilities are also available at the trailhead, ensuring a comfortable start and end to your hike. This accessible setup allows you to easily begin your exploration of the park's unique environment. Consider visiting during cooler parts of the day for the most pleasant experience.

The Prairie Dog Town via Buckhorn Trail offers a prime opportunity to connect with the distinctive ecosystem of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. This route is particularly notable for its direct access to a large prairie dog town, allowing for close observation of these social animals in their natural habitat. As you hike, keep an eye out for other wildlife, as bison are known to roam the broader area. The trail provides a concise yet rich experience of the park's geological formations and open prairies.