Zap Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to stay, and local culture of Zap, North Dakota with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Zap

Zap, North Dakota is a small town located in western North Dakota. This charming town is situated in the heart of the Great Plains in the United States of America. It is an ideal destination for those looking for a quiet getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at all that Zap has to offer, including places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and what to eat.

List of Places to Visit in Zap

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Zap Public School Museum: This museum showcases the history of Zap’s public school system, from its beginnings in the early 1900s to the present day. It features exhibits on the school’s past teachers, students, and staff, as well as displays of local artifacts and memorabilia.

  • Western Plains Cultural Centre: The Western Plains Cultural Centre is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history and culture of the Great Plains. The museum features exhibits on the area’s indigenous peoples, pioneers, and settlers, as well as works by local artists.

  • The Lewis and Clark Trail: The Lewis and Clark Trail runs through North Dakota and is an excellent opportunity to learn about the history of the area. It follows the route that Meriwether Lewis and William Clark took on their expedition to explore the western part of the United States in the early 19th century.

Natural Attractions of Zap: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Theodore Roosevelt National Park: The Theodore Roosevelt National Park is a spectacular park located just a short drive from Zap. The park’s rugged terrain, towering rock formations, and abundant wildlife make it an unforgettable experience for visitors.

  • Lake Sakakawea: Lake Sakakawea is the largest reservoir in North Dakota and offers visitors plenty of opportunities for water activities such as boating, swimming, and fishing.

  • Little Missouri National Grassland: Little Missouri National Grassland is a beautiful and remote area that offers visitors the chance to experience the Great Plains in their natural state. It is a great place to hike, mountain bike, or simply relax and take in the stunning views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Zap

Zap and the surrounding area offer several great hiking and mountain biking trails. Some of the most popular include:

  • Maah Daah Hey Trail: The Maah Daah Hey Trail is a 96-mile trail that runs through North Dakota’s Badlands. It is one of the most challenging and scenic hiking and mountain biking trails in the area.

  • Theodore Roosevelt Nature Trail: The Theodore Roosevelt Nature Trail is a 36-mile trail that travels through some of the most beautiful landscapes in North Dakota. The trail offers visitors the chance to see wildlife such as bison, prairie dogs, and elk.

Best Things to Do in Zap: Activities and Tours

  • Horseback Riding: Horseback riding is a popular activity in Zap and the surrounding area. There are several companies that offer guided horseback tours of the nearby Theodore Roosevelt National Park.

  • Fishing: Lake Sakakawea is a great place to go fishing. Visitors can catch a variety of fish such as walleye, northern pike, and smallmouth bass.

  • Rock Climbing: The towering rock formations in and around Theodore Roosevelt National Park make for excellent rock climbing. Visitors can arrange guided climbs with local companies.

Week-Long Itinerary for Zap

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Western Plains Cultural Centre and the Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Day 2 Hike the Maah Daah Hey Trail
Day 3 Spend the day at Lake Sakakawea
Day 4 Visit the Zap Public School Museum and take a guided horseback ride
Day 5 Rock climb in Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Day 6 Explore Little Missouri National Grassland
Day 7 Relax and take in the local culture of Zap

Food and Drink Scene of Zap

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lefse: Lefse is a traditional Norwegian flatbread that is popular in North Dakota. It is often eaten with butter and sugar or used as a wrap for meat and cheese.

  • Knoephla Soup: Knoephla soup is a creamy soup made with dumplings, potatoes, carrots, and sometimes bacon.

  • Chokecherry Jelly: Chokecherries are a small, tart fruit that grow in North Dakota. They are often used to make delicious and unique jelly.

Local Beverages

  • Prairie Rose Meadery: Prairie Rose Meadery is a local meadery that produces a variety of meads made with North Dakota honey.

  • Souris River Brewing: Souris River Brewing is a local brewery that produces a variety of delicious beers.

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

  • The Zap Motel: The Zap Motel is a clean and comfortable motel located in the heart of Zap. It offers basic amenities such as free Wi-Fi and cable TV.

  • The Outlaw Inn: The Outlaw Inn is a historic hotel located just outside of Zap. It offers guests a unique and memorable experience in a charming, Western-themed setting.

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

  • Chokecherry Jelly: As previously mentioned, chokecherries are a unique fruit that grows in North Dakota. Chokecherry jelly is a perfect souvenir to bring home and share with friends and family.

  • Handcrafted Pottery from Western Plains Cultural Centre: The Western Plains Cultural Centre offers a selection of handcrafted pottery made by local artists. These unique pieces make for an excellent souvenir or gift.

Local Culture and Customs of Zap

Zap is a friendly and welcoming community. Visitors should be respectful of the town’s residents and their customs. North Dakota is known for its Scandinavian influence, particularly in the cuisine. Visitors should also be aware that hunting and fishing are popular activities in the area and should be respectful of local hunting and fishing regulations.

Best Time to Visit Zap

The best time to visit Zap is during the summer months, from June to August. The weather is warm and sunny, and outdoor activities are in full swing. Temperatures can be quite chilly in the winter, and snowfall is common. However, winter sports such as skiing and snowmobiling are popular activities during the winter months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Zap

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and culture
  • Try the local cuisine
  • Be mindful of hunting and fishing regulations

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage local attractions
  • Disrespect the town’s residents
  • Ignore local wildlife regulations

Safety and Health

Safety in Zap

Zap is a safe community, but visitors should be mindful of their surroundings and take normal safety precautions. Hiking and outdoor activities can be dangerous, and visitors should be aware of potential hazards.

Health in Zap

There are limited medical facilities in or near Zap. Visitors should ensure they have adequate health insurance and take necessary precautions such as bringing any required medications.

Getting to Zap: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Zap

The closest airport to Zap is the Bismarck Municipal Airport, which is approximately 90 minutes away by car.

Bus Stations Near Zap

There are no direct bus routes to Zap, but visitors can take a bus to the nearby town of Beulah and arrange transportation from there.

Other Options

Visitors can also drive to Zap or arrange for a rental car.

How to Get Around in Zap

Zap is a small town, and most attractions are within walking distance. Visitors can also take a rental car or arrange for a taxi if necessary.

Where to Go Next from Zap: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Bismarck, North Dakota: Bismarck is the capital of North Dakota and is home to several interesting museums, restaurants, and other attractions.

  • Medora, North Dakota: Medora is a charming town located just outside Theodore Roosevelt National Park. It is known for its outdoor activities and Western-themed attractions.

Conclusion

Zap, North Dakota is a hidden gem in the heart of the Great Plains. This town and the surrounding area offer visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and local culture. With this guide, visitors can plan an unforgettable trip to Zap and experience all that this charming town has to offer.