Winter in North Dakota can be cold and brisk, and it's all too easy to want to hibernate until the weather begins to warm back up. But the thing is, winter really is the best time to get outdoors and enjoy the beauty of North Dakota, in its most wondrous natural state! There's a peace and quiet that descends upon the state during the coldest months of the year, and if you're lucky enough to live here, it's something you really should embrace. So bundle up and brave the cold; here are some of the best winter hikes in North Dakota, perfect for enjoying the immense splendor of our state!

1. Beaver Loop Trail - Bottineau

Our list of best winter hikes in North Dakota begins with a great one: the Beaver Loop Trail in Bottineau. Where better to clear your mind and enjoy the winter scenery than the forests of the Turtle Mountains? Lake Metigoshe State Park, located near Bottineau, ND, is nestled among this picturesque area and has groomed trails for regular hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. The Beaver Loop Trail is the perfect one to take at just under two miles long, weaving through the trees, over bridges, and alongside frozen lakes and ponds.

2. Shoreline Trail - Pick City

Take a snowy walk along North Dakota's gorgeous Lake Sakakawea on the Shoreline Trail. Part of the Lake Sakakawea State Park, this trail will bring you over the snowy bluffs alongside the lake and through the perfect trail, whether you take it on with your boots, snowshoes, or skis.

3. Woodland Trail - Wishek

The sight of the frosted trees and the icy Beaver Lake are seen perfectly from this trail. At just a bit over half a mile, the Woodland Trail in Beaver Lake State Park near Wishek, ND will take you on a calming and easy journey through the woody draws. The crisp air will help you clear your lungs and focus your mind on the year ahead.

4. Cottonwood Trail - Hensler

This trail is located in the forest right along the Missouri River, part of Cross Ranch State Park. It's just over three miles long and is groomed for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter. Enjoy winter hiking in North Dakota among these cottonwood trees and think back on previous years and plan out the year ahead - it's wonderfully peaceful here and perfect for self-reflection.

5. Whitetail Trail - Arvilla

Stroll along a river, cross a bridge, and just enjoy the nature around you on the Whitetail Trail in Turtle River State Park, located near Grand Forks. This trail is 1.31 miles long and it's perfect for a snowy walk. North Dakota winter hiking on trails like this is perfect for relieving stress and reorganizing your thoughts for the future.

6. Grahams Island Trails - Devils Lake

Meander through the trees and along the frozen shoreline of Devils Lake at Grahams Island State Park. There are three miles of groomed cross-country ski trails along with packed trails that are perfect for exploring on foot or snowshoes. Plus, you can unwind with a bit of ice fishing on one of the most popular lakes in North Dakota to do so.

7. Old Settlers Trail - Cavalier

If you find yourself in the far north of North Dakota during winter, visit the Icelandic State Park and take on the Old Settlers Trail. This trail is groomed for cross-country skiing in the winter and is open for hiking. At a mile and a half long, you'll travel through the woodlands that make up the Gunlogson Nature Preserve within the park. It's refreshingly quiet and perfect for mapping out your future.

What are your resolutions and plans for the upcoming year? Once you've tackled the above list of best winter hikes in North Dakota, keep exploring! If you're looking to travel and discover new places, here is a great North Dakota Bucket List for all the places you should see within our beautiful state.