Exploring North Dakota’s Rich Heritage
Devils Lake often hailed as the crown jewel of North Dakota’s lakes stands out as the state’s largest natural body of water. Nestled in the scenic Coteau des Prairies region, this expansive lake covers over 122,000 acres, providing a picturesque setting surrounded by rolling hills and vast prairies. Devils Lake offers diverse recreational opportunities, from fishing for walleye and perch to boating and birdwatching. Its ever-changing shoreline, influenced by natural fluctuations in water levels, adds to the allure, creating a dynamic and visually captivating landscape.
Interesting Facts about North Dakota
01
Plenty of Lakes
Despite being known for its prairies, North Dakota has over 1,000 lakes, including the prominent Devils Lake.
02
International Peace Garden
Straddling the U.S.-Canada border, the International Peace Garden features stunning floral displays, hiking trails, and a serene environment for outdoor recreation.
03
Highway 200
North Dakota has a unique stretch of U.S. Highway 200, known as the “Sheyenne River Valley Scenic Byway,” offering picturesque views.
Must See Attractions
Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Nature & Parks
Nestled in the rugged Badlands of North Dakota is Theodore Roosevelt National Park, a captivating wilderness area renowned for its dramatic landscapes, diverse wildlife, and the preservation of the rugged terrain that inspired the 26th President of the United States in his conservation efforts.
Scandinavian Heritage Association
Speciality Museums
The Scandinavian Heritage Association is a cultural hub dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich heritage of Scandinavian immigrants through events, exhibits, and educational programs.
Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park
Nature & Parks
Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park, located near Mandan, offers a journey into the region’s history. It features reconstructed military structures and the iconic On-A-Slant Indian Village, providing visitors with a glimpse into the area’s Native American and military past.
Where to Sleep
North Dakota Lakes to Discover
1. Alkali Lake
Located in the Badlands, Alkali Lake offers a unique outdoor experience. Its rugged surroundings make it a destination for hiking and wildlife observation.
2. Lemmon Lake
A hidden gem in the Sheyenne National Grassland, Lemmon Lake offers a peaceful environment for fishing, camping, and connecting with nature.
3. Spiritwood Lake
Surrounded by woodlands and parkland, Spiritwood Lake provides a picturesque setting for water recreation, including boating, fishing, and lakeside picnics.
4. Ashtabula Lake
Nestled in the Sheyenne National Grassland, Ashtabula Lake is a peaceful reservoir famous for fishing, birdwatching, and enjoying the serene prairie surroundings.
5. Devils Lake
As the largest natural lake in North Dakota, Devils Lake spans over 122,000 acres, attracting anglers with its diverse fish species and providing a scenic retreat.
6. Lake Sakakawea
Lake Sakakawea, formed by the Garrison Dam on the Missouri River, boasts over 1,300 miles of shoreline, offering boating, fishing, and camping opportunities.
7. Sweetwater Lake
Tucked away in the Pembina Gorge State Recreation Area, Sweetwater Lake provides a serene retreat for fishing, kayaking, and exploring the scenic trails nearby.
8. Stump Lake
Known for its scenic beauty and abundant waterfowl, Stump Lake is a reservoir offering a tranquil escape for kayaking, birding, and nature enthusiasts.
Annual Events and Festivals
TBA 2025
North Dakota Winter Show
The event is a winter extravaganza celebrating the resilience of agriculture and rural life in the northern plains. It offers a diverse array of attractions, including a thrilling rodeo showcasing the skills of seasoned and up-and-coming cowboys and cowgirls. Livestock enthusiasts gather for impressive displays of farm animals, while a bustling trade show provides a platform for the latest agricultural innovations and products.
TBA 2025
Dickinson Roughrider Days
Dickinson Roughrider Days is an annual Western celebration that encapsulates the spirit of frontier heritage. Held in Dickinson each June, this event is a vibrant amalgamation of rodeo excitement, live music, and community festivities. The highlight of Roughrider Days is the rodeo, where skilled cowboys and cowgirls showcase their prowess in various events, including bull riding, barrel racing, and bronc riding. Families can enjoy diverse activities, from carnival rides to delicious fair food. Dickinson Roughrider Days not only pays homage to the region’s cowboy culture.
September 25 – 28, 2024
Norsk Høstfest
Norsk Høstfest in Minot stands as the largest Scandinavian festival in North America, offering a captivating celebration of Nordic heritage and traditions. Held annually in September, this cultural extravaganza transforms the North Dakota State Fairgrounds into a bustling hub of Scandinavian festivities. Attendees can immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Nordic culture through various activities, including traditional folk dancing, authentic cuisine, and captivating live music performances.
Top Hiking Trails
Wind Canyon Trail
Wind Canyon Trail, Medora, North Dakota
Wind Canyon Trail in North Dakota is a beautiful but short hiking trail that offers nature enthusiasts a captivating journey through the rugged Badlands terrain. Located within Theodore Roosevelt National Park, this loop trail is known for its stunning views and unique geological formations. The Wind Canyon Trail allows hikers to explore the dramatic landscapes carved by the flow of the Little Missouri River.
The Big Plateau and Ekblom Trail Loop
Ekblom Trail, Medora, north dakota
This scenic loop encompasses the expansive Big Plateau Trail and the picturesque Ekblom Trail, providing hikers with a diverse and immersive experience of the park’s unique landscapes. Hikers are treated to sweeping vistas of the Badlands, with its rugged canyons and distinctive rock formations, but also the more intimate exploration of the park’s flora and fauna, including the chance to encounter the diverse wildlife that inhabits the region. The loop is well-marked, making it accessible for hikers of varying skill levels.
Prairie Dog Town via Buckhorn Trail
Caprock Coulee Trail, Grassy Butte, North Dakota
As hikers traverse the Buckhorn Trail, the terrain gradually unfolds into expansive grasslands, providing a scenic backdrop to the lively prairie dog community. These curious and social creatures can be observed in their bustling town, engaging in playful interactions and standing sentry to alert their companions of potential threats. The Buckhorn Trail, just less than two miles, with its moderate difficulty level, allows hikers to immerse themselves in the serene beauty of the Badlands while providing an up-close encounter with the park’s charismatic wildlife.
Best Golf Courses
The Links Of North Dakota
5153 109th Avenue NW, Ray, North Dakota
The Links of North Dakota is a premier destination for golf enthusiasts, offering a blend of beauty and challenging play. Located in Ray, North Dakota, this championship golf course unfolds across the picturesque landscape of the state’s northwest region. Designed by renowned architect Stephen Kay, The Links is famous for its links-style layout, featuring fairways, bunkering, and greens. As players navigate the course, they are treated to views of the surrounding prairie, creating a serene and immersive golfing experience.
The Rock Golf Course
3400 Burnt Creek Loop Bismarck, North Dakota
Nestled along the scenic bluffs overlooking the Missouri River, Hawktree Golf Club in Bismarck, North Dakota, stands as a golfing gem that seamlessly integrates the beauty of the prairie landscape with a challenging and meticulously designed course. Created by renowned golf course architect Jim Engh, Hawktree is celebrated for its unique layout, featuring dramatic elevation changes, strategically placed bunkers, and undulating fairways that demand precision and strategic shot-making. The signature 14th hole, known as the “Island Green,” is a testament to the course’s creativity and difficulty, providing a thrilling experience for players.
King’s Walk Golf Course
5301 Columbia Road Grand Forks, North Dakota
King’s Walk Golf Course in Grand Forks, North Dakota, offers golfers a delightful blend of challenging play and scenic beauty. Designed by Arnold Palmer, this 18-hole championship course seamlessly integrates the natural features of the Red River Valley, providing a picturesque backdrop for an exceptional golfing experience. The signature hole, the par-3 16th, boasts an island green surrounded by water, adding an exciting element to the round.
Water Sports
Lake Metigoshe Boating
Boating
Whether you prefer the serenity of a quiet paddle on the Sheyenne River or the thrill of water skiing on Lake Metigoshe, North Dakota’s diverse waterways cater to all boating preferences. Boaters can enjoy the unique combination of wide open spaces, breathtaking landscapes, and the occasional wildlife sighting, making every excursion on the water a memorable and rewarding experience in the Peace Garden State.
Perch Eyes Guide Service
Fishing
Devils Lake, often heralded as the “Perch Capital of the World,” is a premier destination for fishing enthusiasts in North Dakota. Nestled in the state’s scenic landscapes, this expansive natural reservoir boasts a thriving fishery, drawing anglers from far and wide. Known for its robust population of walleye, perch, northern pike, and white bass, Devils Lake offers a diverse and exciting fishing experience, and with the help of Perch Eyes Guide Service, anglers can cast their lines out onto the lake’s expansive waters, which cover over 200,000 acres.
Sweetwater Lake Kayaking
Kayaking
Kayaking enthusiasts in North Dakota discover a serene and immersive experience as they navigate the calm waters of Sweetwater Lake. Sweetwater Lake’s crystal-clear waters offer a perfect setting for kayaking adventures. Paddlers can leisurely explore the lake’s intricate shoreline, gliding past lush forests and scenic coves. With minimal motorized boat traffic, kayakers can relish the tranquility and connect with nature.
Resorts to Explore
Coteau des Prairies Lodge
Recreational, Rustic
9953 141st Ave SE, Havana, North Dakota 58043
Woodland Resort
Lakeside Resort, Recreational
1012 Woodland Dr, Devils Lake, North Dakota 58301
Indian Hills Resort
Lakeside Resort, Family-friendly
7276 14th NW, Garrison, North Dakota 58540
Tips on Vacationing in North Dakota
Prepare for Scenic Drives
Explore the state’s beauty through scenic drives like the Enchanted Highway or the Badlands Loop Scenic Byway. These routes showcase the vast landscapes and unique landmarks.
Outdoor Activities
Enjoy the state’s natural beauty by engaging in outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and birdwatching. Check out the Maah Daah Hey Trail or explore the shores of Lake Sakakawea.
Northern Lights
If you’re visiting in the winter, consider heading to rural areas with minimal light pollution to catch the Northern Lights, a mesmerizing natural phenomenon.
Frequently Asked Questions about North Dakota
North Dakota offers a variety of cabin rentals in picturesque locations. Some popular areas include Medora, near the beautiful Theodore Roosevelt National Park, and Dickinson, near Dickinson State University. When searching for the perfect cabin, consider your desired vacation activities and the nearby attractions.
Use vacation rental websites like Lake, Vrbo, Rent By Owner, and Hometogo to find the perfect North Dakota cabin rental. Enter your desired location, dates, and any specific preferences to narrow your search. You can also filter your search based on your budget, number of guests, and preferred amenities.
North Dakota cabin rentals have various amenities to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. You can expect essentials like bedding, linens, and a fully-equipped kitchen for preparing meals. Additionally, many cabins offer conveniences like Wi-Fi, parking, and wheelchair accessibility. Don’t forget to check the listing details to confirm the specific amenities available in your chosen rental.
Yes, there are pet-friendly vacation rentals available in North Dakota. When searching rental websites, filter the results to display pet-friendly options. Read the property description carefully to understand any specific pet policies or limitations before making your reservation.