Western North Dakota Travel Guide

Explore the best places to visit in Western North Dakota. Plan your trip with this guide, including attractions, food and drink, local culture and customs, and more.


Introduction to Western North Dakota

Western North Dakota is a unique destination situated in the Great Plains region of the United States. It is home to a diverse range of landscapes, from rolling hills and grasslands to towering badlands and canyons, making it a hotspot for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurous travelers. In this guide, we will take you through the best places to visit, things to do, and local culture of Western North Dakota.

List of Places to Visit in Western North Dakota

Here are some of the must-visit places in Western North Dakota:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum: This state-of-the-art museum showcases the prehistoric, Native American, and European history of North Dakota.
  • Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park: It is the site of a military post that served as the starting point for the 7th Cavalry’s ill-fated expedition against the Sioux in 1876.
  • The Dakota Dinosaur Museum: The museum contains impressive displays of full-sized dinosaur skeletons, including a T-rex and a triceratops.

Natural Attractions of Western North Dakota: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Theodore Roosevelt National Park: The park is spread across 70,447 acres of stunning badlands, canyons, and wilderness areas, making it perfect for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.
  • Little Missouri State Park: This park offers excellent opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking in the picturesque Little Missouri River and hiking along the buttes.
  • Killdeer Mountains: This mountain range offers scenic outlooks, hiking trails, fishing, and hunting opportunities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Western North Dakota

Western North Dakota is a perfect destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some of the best trails you can explore:

  • Maah Daah Hey Trail: This trail spans 144 miles and is one of the longest single-track trails in the U.S., offering stunning views of the Badlands and the surrounding landscapes.
  • Medora-Maah Daah Hey Trail: This 98-mile trail connects the town of Medora to the Maah Daah Hey Trail and offers breathtaking views of the Little Missouri River and Theodore Roosevelt National Park.
  • Sakakawea Scenic Byway: This scenic byway stretches across 64 miles, passing through the hills and valleys around Lake Sakakawea. The route offers breathtaking views and access to some of the best fishing spots in the area.

Best Things to Do in Western North Dakota: Activities and Tours

  • Take a scenic drive through Theodore Roosevelt National Park and admire the stunning landscapes.
  • Ride on horseback through the badlands of western North Dakota with a guided tour.
  • Attend a live performance at the Burning Hills Amphitheatre, one of the most popular entertainment venues in the state.
  • Go on a hot air balloon ride and experience a once-in-a-lifetime sunrise flight over the scenic plains.

Week-Long Itinerary for Western North Dakota

If you are planning a week-long trip to Western North Dakota, here is a sample itinerary:

  • Day 1: Arrive in Dickinson and explore historic downtown and the Ukrainian Cultural Institute.
  • Day 2: Visit Theodore Roosevelt National Park and hike to see wildlife.
  • Day 3: Explore the medora area and take a scenic drive on the badlands loop road.
  • Day 4: Visit hillside farms in Dunn County and go on a horseback riding tour.
  • Day 5: Visit to Fort Union Trading Post and take a guided fishing tour.
  • Day 6: Take a hot air balloon ride in the morning, and spend the afternoon visiting Little Missouri State Park.
  • Day 7: Head back to Dickinson, with a stop at the Dakota Dinosaur Museum en route.

Food and Drink Scene of Western North Dakota

Western North Dakota has a unique culinary culture and a thriving drinks scene. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Knoephla Soup: This creamy soup is made with flour dumplings, potatoes, onions, and sometimes bacon.
  • Lefse: A traditional Norwegian potato flatbread, usually served with butter and jam.
  • Chislic: A dish made with cubed meat, usually lamb or beef, and seasoned with garlic salt.

Local Beverages

  • Hot Beef Sundae: An unusual dish made with mashed potatoes, roast beef, gravy, and a cherry tomato - it looks exactly like an ice cream sundae.
  • Chokecherry Wine: A regional specialty wine made from wild chokecherries, often served as dessert wine or aperitif.

Where to Stay in Western North Dakota: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Here are some of the best hotels, hostels, and guesthouses you can find in Western North Dakota:

  • Rough Riders Hotel: A luxurious hotel situated in Medora with a western-themed décor and rustic charm.
  • AmericInn by Wyndham: This hotel has two locations in Dickinson and Medora, offering comfortable and spacious accommodations.
  • The Moorhead Manor: A charming guesthouse in the heart of Makoti, known for its warm hospitality and homemade breakfast.

What to Buy in Western North Dakota: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some unique souvenirs you can find in Western North Dakota:

  • Beef jerky from the Gourmet Jerky Company in Bismarck.
  • Pottery from the Rolling Hills Pottery Studio in Medina.
  • Hand-made quilts from the Heartland Quilters’ Guild in Dickinson.

Local Culture and Customs of Western North Dakota

Western North Dakota has a rich cultural heritage, with significant contributions from the local Native American tribes. The region has a western-inspired lifestyle and loves cowboy boots, cross-necklaces, and rodeos.

Best Time to Visit Western North Dakota

The best time to visit Western North Dakota is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is pleasant and the outdoor activities are in full swing. However, visitors can also explore the region during the shoulder season of May or September, when the crowds are thinner and the landscapes are beautifully painted by the fall colors.

Do’s and Don’ts of Western North Dakota

Do:

  • Explore the outdoor activities and stunning landscapes of the region.
  • Experience the unique local culture and western lifestyle.
  • Try the local cuisine and drinks.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the Native American heritage and culture of the region.
  • Ignore the local traditional customs and ethics.
  • Leave the region without spending enough time exploring the outdoors.

Safety and Health

Safety in Western North Dakota

Western North Dakota is generally a safe destination, with a low crime rate and friendly people. Be cautious while driving around badland areas, and watch for bison that may be roaming free around the region.

Health in Western North Dakota

Western North Dakota has a low population density and is served by a few medical services. Health emergencies and critical medical conditions may require evacuations to cities like Bismarck or Minot. Visitors should take necessary health precautions, especially mosquito repellent in summer months.

Getting to Western North Dakota: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to Western North Dakota is easy, and it has several transportation options and logistical support. Here are some ways you can get to the region:

Airports Near Western North Dakota

  • Theodore Roosevelt Regional Airport (DIK) in Dickinson
  • Minot International Airport (MOT) in Minot

Bus Stations Near Western North Dakota

  • Dickinson Greyhound Bus Station
  • Williston Bus Station

Other Options

  • Road travel via the I-94 and US Hwy 2 highways.
  • Car rental services are available in several cities.

How to Get Around in Western North Dakota

Renting a car is the best option for traveling around Western North Dakota. The region has a minimal public transportation system. Still, some organized tours and private shuttles are available for transportation around the region.

Where to Go Next from Western North Dakota: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Western North Dakota is surrounded by several exciting destinations that can make a perfect extension of a North Dakota trip. Here are some recommended destinations that you can include on your itinerary:

  • Medora, gateway to Theodore Roosevelt National Park.
  • Bismarck, the capital city of North Dakota, and a center of history and culture.
  • Montana’s Glacier National Park, one of the most beautiful national parks in the country.

Conclusion

Western North Dakota is an ideal destination for travelers who are seeking adventure, natural beauty, local culture, and history. Plan your itinerary, explore the region’s attractions and outdoor activities and enjoy the region’s scenic vibe, friendly people, and unique western lifestyle.



    Beulah
    Center
    Dickinson
    Elgin
    Regent
    Stanley
    Williston
    Zap