Elgin Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do in Elgin, North Dakota, from cultural and natural attractions to hiking and biking routes. Find recommendations for places to stay, local food and drink, souvenirs, and more in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Elgin

Elgin is a charming town located in western North Dakota, amidst the Great Plains of the United States of America. The small community is known for its picturesque natural scenery, rich cultural history, and warm and friendly locals. The town is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, camping, and fishing. With its quiet streets and cozy accommodations, Elgin is the perfect destination for those looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

List of Places to Visit in Elgin

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Fort Ransom State Park: This 950-acre state park is home to several historical sites, including the Fort Ransom Blockhouse. Visitors can explore the park’s trails, engage in outdoor activities, and learn about the history of the Fort Ransom area.

  • Camp Hancock State Historic Site: Located in nearby Bismarck, this site features a reconstructed military outpost from the 1870s and an interactive museum showcasing the history of the area.

  • Chateau de Mores State Historic Site: This historic site is located in nearby Medora and features the restored home of the Marquis de Mores, a French aristocrat who attempted to establish a beef industry in the region in the late 1800s.

Natural Attractions of Elgin: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake Tschida: This 4,000-acre lake is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and swimming. Visitors can rent boats and equipment from the nearby marina or enjoy the views from the shoreline.

  • Petrified Forest Loop Trail: This scenic hiking trail winds through the badlands of Theodore Roosevelt National Park and features petrified wood fragments, colorful rocks, and stunning vistas.

  • Grahams Island State Park: Located just a short drive from Elgin, this state park features hiking trails, a marina, and a swimming beach. Visitors can enjoy fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching on the surrounding waters.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Elgin

  • Maah Daah Hey Trail: This 144-mile trail runs through the Badlands, from Medora to Watford City. The trail features diverse landscapes, from prairies to canyons, and offers an immersive wilderness experience for hikers and bikers alike.

  • Black Butte Trail: This trail in Theodore Roosevelt National Park offers a moderate hike up to the summit of Black Butte, where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding Badlands.

  • Elgin Butte Trail: This local hiking trail features moderate terrain and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The trail is perfect for hikers of all skill levels and is accessible year-round.

Best Things to Do in Elgin: Activities and Tours

  • Fly Fishing: Several local outfitters offer guided fly fishing tours on the nearby Heart River. Visitors can expect to catch a variety of fish, including rainbow trout, brown trout, and northern pike.

  • Horseback Riding: The nearby Double D Ranch offers guided horseback rides through the Badlands, with a range of options for riders of all skill levels.

  • Birdwatching: The region surrounding Elgin is home to over 200 bird species, including raptors, songbirds, and waterfowl. The best time to visit for birdwatching is during the spring and fall migrations.

Week-Long Itinerary for Elgin

Day Activity
1 Arrive in Elgin and check into your accommodations. Spend the afternoon exploring downtown Elgin.
2 Hike the Elgin Butte Trail in the morning and then enjoy a lunch of local specialties. Spend the afternoon exploring Lake Tschida.
3 Take a guided fly fishing tour on the Heart River. In the afternoon, visit the Camp Hancock State Historic Site in Bismarck.
4 Drive to Theodore Roosevelt National Park and hike the Black Butte Trail. In the evening, attend a local rodeo.
5 Visit the Fort Ransom State Park and learn about the history of the area. In the afternoon, drive to nearby Dickinson and explore the local arts scene.
6 Spend the day at Grahams Island State Park, kayaking or fishing on the lake.
7 Take a guided horseback ride through the Badlands with Double D Ranch. In the afternoon, visit nearby Medora and learn about the history of the Chateau de Mores.

Food and Drink Scene of Elgin

Must-Try Dishes

  • Knoephla Soup: A traditional German dish, this hearty soup is made with potatoes, dumplings, and cream.

  • Lefse: A Norwegian flatbread made with potatoes, flour, and butter.

  • Meat Pies: A savory pastry filled with beef, potatoes, and onions.

Local Beverages

  • Prairie Rose Mead: A smooth and sweet mead made with honey from local bees.

  • Hazy Heaven IPA: A locally brewed IPA with a hoppy and citrusy flavor.

  • Buffalo Commons Brown Ale: A delicious brown ale with notes of caramel and chocolate.

Where to Stay in Elgin: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Elgin Lodge: This cozy lodge offers comfortable accommodations and easy access to downtown Elgin. Rooms feature private bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi.

  • The Barn Bed and Breakfast: This charming B&B features rustic décor and a cozy atmosphere. Guests can enjoy a homemade breakfast each morning and relax in the beautiful gardens surrounding the property.

  • Lake Tschida Lodge: Located just a short drive from Elgin, this luxurious lodge offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding countryside. Rooms feature private balconies, fireplaces, and jacuzzi tubs.

What to Buy in Elgin: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Native American Crafts: The area surrounding Elgin is home to several Native American tribes, and visitors can find a variety of handmade crafts, including pottery, jewelry, and textiles.

  • Local Honey: Several local beekeepers produce high-quality honey from the surrounding prairies and badlands.

  • Elgin T-Shirt: Show off your love for Elgin with a souvenir t-shirt featuring the town’s name and logo.

Local Culture and Customs of Elgin

Elgin is a small town with a strong sense of community and traditional values. Visitors should expect a warm welcome and a friendly atmosphere, with locals always willing to help out and share their knowledge of the area. The town is home to several annual events, including a Fourth of July parade, a Christmas tree lighting ceremony, and an annual fall festival.

Best Time to Visit Elgin

The best time to visit Elgin depends on your interests. Summer is the busiest season, with warm temperatures and plenty of outdoor activities. Fall is the best time to visit if you’re interested in fall foliage and hunting. Winter is popular for snowmobiling and ice fishing, while spring is great for birdwatching and wildflowers.

Do’s and Don’ts of Elgin

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.

  • Check out the local attractions and outdoor activities.

  • Shop for locally made crafts and products.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the local environment.

  • Be disrespectful or rude to locals.

  • Disrupt the peace and quiet of the town.

Safety and Health

Safety in Elgin

Elgin is a safe and welcoming community with low crime rates. Visitors should take normal precautions, such as locking their vehicles and securing their belongings.

Health in Elgin

Elgin has a small medical clinic with basic healthcare services. For more serious medical needs, visitors should drive to nearby Dickinson or Bismarck.

Getting to Elgin: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Elgin

  • Bismarck Airport: Located 110 miles east of Elgin.

  • Dickinson Airport: Located 60 miles south of Elgin.

Bus Stations Near Elgin

  • Dickinson Bus Station: Located 60 miles south of Elgin.

  • Bismarck Bus Station: Located 110 miles east of Elgin.

Other Options

  • Rental Car: A rental car is the most convenient way to get around Elgin and explore the surrounding region.

  • Private Car Service: Several private car services operate in the area, offering transportation to and from the nearby airports or bus stations.

How to Get Around in Elgin

Elgin is a small town with a walkable downtown area. Taxis and private car services are available for longer trips or transportation to nearby attractions.

Where to Go Next from Elgin: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Medora: This charming town is located just a short drive south of Elgin and features a range of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.

  • Theodore Roosevelt National Park: This national park is located about an hour’s drive west of Elgin and offers stunning views of the Badlands.

  • Bismarck: The capital city of North Dakota is located about two hours east of Elgin and features a range of cultural and historical attractions, including the North Dakota Heritage Center.

Conclusion

Elgin is a hidden gem in the North Dakota Badlands, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural history, and small-town charm. Whether you’re interested in exploring the outdoors, learning about the history of the region, or just getting away from it all, Elgin has something to offer. Use this comprehensive travel guide to plan your trip and make the most of your time in this unique destination.