Riverside Park to Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park

You can find parking available directly at Riverside Park in Bismarck, which serves as the northern trailhead for this route. This makes it convenient to begin your cycling adventure.

Yes, the paved sections of the Missouri Valley Millennium Legacy Trail, which this route primarily follows, are rated as easy to moderate. With mostly paved surfaces and gentle grades (typically 3% or less), it's well-suited for most fitness levels, including beginners and families.

The majority of the route is paved, consisting of asphalt and some concrete sections, making it ideal for road bikes. While generally easy, the northern end near Bismarck has some rolling hills, with other sections along the riverfront being relatively flat. Within Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park, stick to the main paved path as other unpaved trails are more for mountain biking or hiking.

You'll enjoy breathtaking views of the Missouri River and Heart River bottoms, bluffs, and prairie landscapes. The trail connects various historical, recreational, and cultural sites. A notable highlight is the Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park Overlook, offering panoramic views. You'll also pass through wooded areas and open prairie, with opportunities for wildlife viewing.

The trail is a designated Millennium Legacy Trail, connecting to several significant historical sites. These include Chief Looking's Village (an ancient Mandan-Hidatsa settlement) and, upon reaching Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park, the reconstructed On-A-Slant Indian Village (a Mandan village from 1575-1781) and military installations like the Custer House and blockhouses. Fort Abraham Lincoln is North Dakota's oldest state park.

Generally, multi-use trails and state parks in North Dakota allow dogs, provided they are kept on a leash. Please ensure your dog is well-behaved and that you clean up after them to maintain the trail's cleanliness for all users.

While there's no specific permit required for cycling the Missouri Valley Millennium Legacy Trail itself, there may be an entrance fee to access Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park. You can find more information on state park fees at nd.gov.

The spring, summer, and fall months generally offer the most pleasant cycling conditions. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer offers warm weather, and fall showcases beautiful foliage. Always check the local weather forecast before you head out, as conditions can change.

As a multi-use trail connecting urban areas to a state park, you can expect facilities at the start (Riverside Park) and end (Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park). Along the route, facilities might be more limited, so it's advisable to carry sufficient water and snacks, and plan your stops accordingly.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Little Soldier Loop, Young Hawk Interpretive Loop, Mah Tah Tope Trail, and Sertoma Park Loop, offering potential detours or extensions for your ride.

For a comfortable road cycling trip, bring your road bike, a helmet, sufficient water, snacks, and sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses). A basic repair kit and a phone for navigation or emergencies are also recommended. Given the scenic views, you might also want a camera!