When it comes to local travel destinations, the country's
south and southwest are the most favored. It makes sense. Who wouldn't want to
bask in the sun on a beach in California or Florida?
Usually, states like North Dakota don't create a buzz among
travelers. The state, however, receives around 22 million visitors annually, which has created a tourism industry worth over $2.5 billion.
The Peace Garden State certainly has a lot to offer. Its
serene landscapes, marked by prairie, rolling hills, and water bodies, make it
one of the top, under-the-radar destinations for adventure travelers.
Let's find out why North Dakota has become so popular with
adventure lovers.
1. North Dakota Badlands
North Dakota has one of the most iconic landforms in the
country, known as The Badlands. It's an area southwest of the state marked by
stunning rock formations that look like mini canyons.
There are different access points to the 390-plus square
miles of scenic rock formations, but the Theodore Roosevelt National Park has
the best vantage point.
If you're looking for a hotspot of adventure travelers in
North Dakota, this is it, as it attracts nearly half a million visitors yearly.
2. Maah Daah Hey Trail
Cutting through the Theodore Roosevelt National Park is a
144-mile single-track scenic trail, a magnet for adventure lovers looking to
explore the prairie wilderness of North Dakota.
While the trail is considered a top destination for mountain
bikers, it's also a favorite for hikers and horseback riders. The sprawling
landscape with jagged peaks and steep inclines is rewarding for hikers just as
much as the even prairie segments are to riders.
Despite your preferred activity, you will love everything
about the trail if you're an adventurous soul. The captivating scenery in the
badlands is unforgettable.
Views of the wildlife, the hilly terrain, and the Little
Missouri River are everything a camper would want.
3. Little Missouri State Park
While the Theodore Roosevelt National Park is more popular,
it is rivaled by the nearby Little Missouri State Park, which is fast becoming
one of the top attractions in the state.
The park's section of the badlands has some of the wildest
and most rugged terrain. As such, you can only explore the park on foot or
horseback. The difficulty, coupled with the picturesque landscape, makes it a
hiker's paradise.
The park has plenty of wildlife as well. You will appreciate
spotting coyotes, deer, and many bird species.
The perfect meld of the greenery, rock formations, and
prairie will surely emphasize the wilderness experience as you explore the
park.
At night, you can retreat to the rustic cabins of Eastview
Campground. After a long day, there's nothing like camping and a bottle of
wine. If it were California, you could roll and enjoy your blunt. But since
weed is only legal for medical use in ND, access requires certification by medical marijuana doctors in North Dakota.
4. Medora
Medora is a town in the badlands hemmed in by the stunning
wilderness of the Dakota Prairie Grassland and the Theodore Roosevelt National
Park.
For adventure lovers, taking a break from the parks and
immersing themselves in Medora's Old West charm is absolutely rewarding. The
cuisine, stagecoach rides, and popular stable rides can feel like you've
stepped back in time.
5. Red River Zoo
If you're visiting Fargo, one of the best ways to spend a
fun day with family is to explore the Red River Zoo.
The zoo is home to plenty of animals and some rare
cold-climate species. Endangered animals like the Bactrian Camel and Red Panda
are worth seeing up close.
As a family-friendly zoo, you should have a good time with
children who will definitely enjoy rides in the antique Diederich Family
Carousel.
6. Pembina Gorge
Further north, west of the I-29 and Walhalla is Pembina
Gorge. The steep, winding river valley is nestled in a massive expanse of
woodland with segments of boreal forest and grassland.
Pembina Gorge is a must-visit destination for adventure
travelers looking for a landscape that contrasts sharply with the badlands. The
massive swath of temperate forest offers a different wilderness experience with
many animal and plant species.
There are plenty of outdoor activities at Pembina Gorge,
including viewing wildlife, hiking, canoeing, skiing, and horseback riding.
Conclusion
North Dakota is fast becoming a top destination for
adventure travelers searching for a memorable experience. The wildlife,
breathtaking prairie, and historical landmarks make the Peace Garden State hard
to dismiss.
