Little Missouri National Grasslands Travel Guide

Little Missouri National Grasslands, located in North Dakota, is a scenic destination to explore the Great Plains of the United States. This travel guide covers the top attractions, activities, food, lodging, and logistics for an unforgettable trip to Little Missouri National Grasslands.


A Comprehensive Tour Guide to Little Missouri National Grasslands

Located in North Dakota, Little Missouri National Grasslands is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and history buffs. This scenic destination showcases the Great Plains of the United States and offers visitors a chance to explore its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll cover the top attractions, activities, food, lodging, and logistics for an unforgettable trip to Little Missouri National Grasslands.

Introduction to Little Missouri National Grasslands

Little Missouri National Grasslands is a 1.03 million-acre Grassland located in the Badlands region of western North Dakota. This vast area consists of rolling hills, deep canyons, and rugged badlands terrain. The grasslands are home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elk, bighorn sheep, pronghorn, and bison. Visitors can also experience North Dakota’s rich history, which includes Native American cultures, cowboys, explorers, and pioneers.

List of Places to Visit in Little Missouri National Grasslands

When visiting Little Missouri National Grasslands, there are several places that you won’t want to miss:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Chateau de Mores - This historic home was built by the French aristocrat, Marquis de Mores. The 26-room chateau has been restored and furnished in the style of the late 1800s and is open for tours.
  • North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame – This museum is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of the North Dakota cowboy.
  • Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site - This site is home to the ancestral homeland of the Hidatsa people. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the customs, traditions, and culture of the Hidatsa people.

Natural Attractions of Little Missouri National Grasslands: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Theodore Roosevelt National Park – This national park is adjacent to Little Missouri National Grasslands and offers visitors a chance to explore scenic loop drives and hiking trails. Visitors can also see the famous bison herd and other wildlife.
  • The Maah Daah Hey Trail – This 144-mile long trail runs through Little Missouri National Grasslands and is a popular hiking and biking route.
  • Little Missouri River – This river runs through Little Missouri National Grasslands and is a popular spot for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Little Missouri National Grasslands

Little Missouri National Grasslands has a variety of hiking and biking trails suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers/bikers. Some of the popular trails include:

  • Caprock Coulee Trail – This 3.5-mile trail offers visitors scenic views of the surrounding badlands, including the colorful layers of sedimentary rocks.
  • Sperati Point Trail – This 3-mile trail is a moderately strenuous uphill hike that rewards visitors with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Long X Trail – This 14-mile trail is for experienced hikers and bikers and offers a chance to see the unique rock formations and canyons in Little Missouri National Grasslands.

Best Things to Do in Little Missouri National Grasslands: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of activities to do and tours to take when visiting Little Missouri National Grasslands:

  • Horseback Riding – There are several outfitters that offer guided horseback tours of Little Missouri National Grasslands.
  • Fishing - Little Missouri River is a top spot for trout fishing.
  • Photography - Little Missouri National Grasslands offers incredible opportunities for landscape and wildlife photography.

Week-Long Itinerary for Little Missouri National Grasslands

Here’s a sample itinerary to help you plan your week-long trip to Little Missouri National Grasslands:

Day 1: Explore the Chateau de Mores and take a guided tour of the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame.

Day 2: Visit Theodore Roosevelt National Park, explore scenic drive routes, and see the buffalo herd.

Day 3: Take a guided tour of the Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site and hike the Caprock Coulee Trail.

Day 4: Take a horseback tour of the Little Missouri National Grasslands and go fishing in Little Missouri River.

Day 5: Hike the Sperati Point Trail and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Day 6: Bike the Long X Trail and explore the rugged canyons and rock formations of the Grasslands.

Day 7: Relax and enjoy the scenic views of Little Missouri National Grasslands.

Food and Drink Scene of Little Missouri National Grasslands

North Dakota is known for its hearty cuisine, and Little Missouri National Grasslands has several dishes that you won’t want to miss:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bison Burger – This is a North Dakota specialty and a must-try for meat lovers.
  • Knoephla Soup – This is a creamy soup made with potatoes, dumplings, and chicken.
  • Chokecherry Jelly – This is a sweet and tangy jelly made with chokecherries, a North Dakota native fruit.

Local Beverages

  • Prairie Rose Meadery – This meadery offers a variety of honey wines, including their signature Mead Royale.
  • Laughing Sun Brewing Co. – This microbrewery offers a variety of craft beers, including their popular Farmhouse Ale.

Where to Stay in Little Missouri National Grasslands: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Little Missouri National Grasslands has several options for lodging, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses:

  • Medora - This historic town is the gateway to Little Missouri National Grasslands and has several lodging options, including the historic Rough Riders Hotel.
  • Watford City - This town has several lodging options, including hotels and motels.
  • Camping – There are several campsites available in Little Missouri National Grasslands for visitors who enjoy camping.

What to Buy in Little Missouri National Grasslands: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some souvenirs and local products to bring home from your trip to Little Missouri National Grasslands:

  • Bison Jerky – This is a popular snack in North Dakota and an excellent souvenir for meat lovers.
  • Native American Crafts – Little Missouri National Grasslands is home to several Native American tribes, and visitors can find authentic crafts and artwork.
  • North Dakota Prairie Fire Hot Sauce – This is a hot sauce made with peppers grown in North Dakota and is a must-try for hot sauce lovers.

Local Culture and Customs of Little Missouri National Grasslands

North Dakota has a rich cultural history, and when visiting Little Missouri National Grasslands, it’s essential to respect the local customs and traditions. North Dakotans are friendly and hospitable, and visitors should always be courteous and respectful towards locals.

Best Time to Visit Little Missouri National Grasslands

The best time to visit Little Missouri National Grasslands is in the summer months of June through September. The weather is warm, and the grasslands are lush and green during this time. However, visitors should be prepared for sudden changes in weather and storms.

Do’s and Don’ts of Little Missouri National Grasslands

Do:

  • Wear comfortable shoes for hiking and biking.
  • Bring plenty of water and sunscreen.
  • Respect the wildlife and natural surroundings.
  • Take your time to explore and appreciate the beauty of the Grasslands.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural surroundings.
  • Approach or feed the wildlife.
  • Stray from designated trails.

Safety and Health

Safety in Little Missouri National Grasslands

Little Missouri National Grasslands is a safe destination, but visitors should take precautions to ensure their safety. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

  • Bring a first-aid kit.
  • Always tell someone your itinerary.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and wildlife.

Health in Little Missouri National Grasslands

Little Missouri National Grasslands has clean air and healthy surroundings, and visitors should not encounter any health issues if they follow basic hygiene protocols. However, visitors should bring any necessary medications and consult their doctor before traveling.

Getting to Little Missouri National Grasslands: Transportation Options and Logistics

North Dakota is a sparsely populated state, and visitors may need to travel several hours to reach Little Missouri National Grasslands.

Airports Near Little Missouri National Grasslands

  • Dickinson Theodore Roosevelt Regional Airport – 59 miles
  • Bismarck Municipal Airport – 180 miles
  • Minot International Airport – 155 miles

Bus Stations Near Little Missouri National Grasslands

  • Greyhound Bus Station – Dickinson – 61 miles
  • Bismarck Bus Depot – 181 miles
  • Amtrak Station – Minot – 155 miles

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or take a taxi from nearby cities to reach Little Missouri National Grasslands. It’s also important to note that there are limited gas stations and rest stops in the area, so visitors should plan accordingly.

How to Get Around in Little Missouri National Grasslands

Visitors can drive, hike, bike, or take guided tours to explore Little Missouri National Grasslands.

Where to Go Next from Little Missouri National Grasslands: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

When visiting Little Missouri National Grasslands, visitors can explore several nearby destinations:

  • Badlands National Park - This park is located in South Dakota and is known for its rugged, colorful rock formations.
  • The Black Hills - This area is located in South Dakota and offers scenic drives, hiking trails, and historic sites.
  • The Missouri River - This river runs through North Dakota and South Dakota and is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and kayaking.

Conclusion

Little Missouri National Grasslands is a stunning destination that showcases the beauty of the Great Plains of the United States. Visitors can explore the rugged badlands terrain, view wildlife, and learn about the local history and culture. With this comprehensive travel guide, visitors can plan an unforgettable trip to Little Missouri National Grasslands and make memories to last a lifetime.