Stanley Travel Guide

Plan your trip to the historic and scenic town of Stanley, North Dakota with our comprehensive guide. Discover the best things to do, local culture, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Stanley

Welcome to the charming and historic town of Stanley, located in Western North Dakota in the heart of the Great Plains region of the United States. Stanley may be small, but it is full of character and natural beauty. From hiking and biking trails to museums and cultural attractions, there is something for everyone in this picturesque town. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, local culture, and more in Stanley.

List of Places to Visit in Stanley

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Stanley History Museum - Explore the rich history of Stanley and its surrounding areas through exhibits of local artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays.
  • Mountrail County Historical Society Museum - Learn about the pioneers and settlers who helped shape this region, including information on Native American history and the oil boom.
  • Buffalo Trails Museum - Discover the unique and fascinating history of the bison in North Dakota and how these animals shaped the region’s economy and ecosystems.

Natural Attractions of Stanley: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Van Hook Territorial Park - This beautiful park offers recreational activities such as swimming, fishing, and boating, as well as stunning views of the Missouri River.
  • Strawberry Lake - This small but scenic lake is perfect for fishing and hiking, with picturesque views of the surrounding natural landscape.
  • Lostwood National Wildlife Refuge - Experience the untouched beauty of the Great Plains at this protected wildlife refuge, home to over 200 bird species and other wildlife.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Stanley

  • Van Hook Trail - Explore the natural beauty of the Missouri River Valley on this scenic hiking and biking trail.
  • Strawberry Lake Loop Trail - This 2.5-mile loop trail offers stunning views of Strawberry Lake and the surrounding forests.
  • Lostwood Wildlife Refuge Trail - Hike along the beautiful Missouri Coteau and through the heart of the Lostwood Wilderness area on this challenging trail.

Best Things to Do in Stanley: Activities and Tours

  • Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site - Take a step back in time and discover the history of the fur trade at this reconstructed trading post from the 1800s.
  • Paddlefish Charters - Experience the thrill of catching North Dakota’s famous paddlefish on a guided fishing tour.
  • Whirl-A-Whil Buffalo Ranch - Get up close and personal with bison on a tour of this working buffalo ranch, where you can see the buffalo, learn about their behavior, and even sample buffalo meat.

Week-Long Itinerary for Stanley

Day Activity
1 Explore Stanley History Museum and the Mountrail County Historical Society Museum
2 Hike the Van Hook Trail and enjoy an afternoon picnic at Van Hook Territorial Park
3 Tour the Whirl-A-Whil Buffalo Ranch and learn about bison
4 Fishing excursion with Paddlefish Charters
5 Visit the Buffalo Trails Museum and Strawberry Lake Loop Trail
6 Birdwatching at the Lostwood National Wildlife Refuge
7 Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site and a scenic drive through the area

Food and Drink Scene of Stanley

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lefse - A traditional Norwegian flatbread made with potatoes and flour
  • Knoephla Soup - A creamy, hearty soup with dumplings, potatoes, and vegetables
  • Lutefisk - A Scandinavian dish made with dried whitefish soaked in lye and served with cream sauce

Local Beverages

  • Prairie Rose Meadery - A local meadery offering a selection of meads made with North Dakota honey
  • 31st Avenue Liquors - A great selection of locally brewed beer and wine, as well as craft spirits from the region

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

  • Mainstay Suites - Comfortable accommodations with a kitchenette, located in the heart of Stanley.
  • Koball House B&B - A charming bed and breakfast with a homey feel, located in the quiet countryside.
  • Badlands Motel - Reasonably priced rooms with comfortable beds and free Wi-Fi.

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

  • Wild Prairie Botanicals - Handcrafted skin and body care products using locally sourced and natural ingredients
  • Native American Crafts - Authentic handmade crafts from local Native American artists
  • Prairie Sky Breads - Locally baked bread, including sourdough and Scandinavian specialties

Local Culture and Customs of Stanley

  • North Dakota has a strong Scandinavian heritage, with many residents of Nordic descent. This is reflected in the local cuisine and cultural events.
  • The oil boom in the area has brought in many workers from outside the region, leading to a lively and diverse population.
  • Hunting, fishing, and other outdoor activities are a way of life in Stanley and the surrounding areas.

Best Time to Visit Stanley

Summer (June-August) is the best time to visit Stanley, with warm weather and longer days for outdoor activities. Winter (December-February) can be extremely cold and snowy, but is ideal for winter sports like ice fishing and snowmobiling.

Do’s and Don’ts of Stanley

Do:

  • Respect the natural landscape and wildlife
  • Embrace the local culture and traditions
  • Try the local cuisine and products

Don’t:

  • Leave trash or litter in nature
  • Disrespect religious and cultural sites
  • Trespass on private land

Safety and Health

Safety in Stanley

Stanley is a safe and welcoming town, with low rates of crime and a friendly community. As with any outdoor activity, it is important to take caution and pay attention to your surroundings.

Health in Stanley

There are several medical facilities in Stanley, including a hospital and clinics, as well as a 24-hour pharmacy. Be aware of ticks and other potential wildlife hazards when hiking or recreating in the outdoors.

Getting to Stanley: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Stanley

Minot International Airport (MOT) is the closest airport to Stanley, located approximately 57 miles away. Other nearby airports include Bismarck Municipal Airport (BIS), Fargo Hector International Airport (FAR), and Grand Forks International Airport (GFK).

Bus Stations Near Stanley

Greyhound has a station in Minot, which provides bus service to and from Stanley.

Other Options

Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore the area. Uber and Lyft also operate in the region.

How to Get Around in Stanley

Driving and walking are the most common ways to get around in Stanley. Biking and hiking are also popular modes of transportation for outdoor activities.

Where to Go Next from Stanley: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Roosevelt National Park - Experience the natural beauty and wildlife of this stunning park, located 3 hours away from Stanley by car.
  • Medora, ND - Discover the historic and charming town of Medora, which is home to many western-themed attractions and events.
  • Minot, ND - Visit the “Magic City” of North Dakota, which boasts many family-friendly activities and attractions.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, or local cuisine, Stanley is a must-see destination in North Dakota. From its scenic hiking trails to its museums and historical sites, there’s something for everyone in this charming and friendly town. Use this comprehensive guide to plan your perfect trip to Stanley.