Nestled in the bluffs of McLean County, North Dakota, is a jaw-droppingly beautiful state park on a small peninsula on Lake Sakakawea that is often tragically overlooked. Known as Fort Stevenson State Park, this gorgeous escape from real life is perfect for folks who aren't big fans of crowds seeking a truly wonder-filled experience. My favorite trail in the entire park is the Fort Stevenson Loop Trail, a moderately challenging glimpse into the most beautiful region of our little state.

This hike is over ten miles in length and can be done as a day trip or as a full-on hike. Personally, I like to stay close to the shores of the lake, which looks an awful lot like a beach in California more than a place I've stumbled upon in the Midwest.

Lake Sakakawea is the third-largest man-made reservoir in the United States, and it makes for an amazingly idyllic day out for anyone interested in getting in touch with the great outdoors. The Fort Stevenson Loop is absolutely perfect for anyone hoping to explore the lake in the best of ways: up close and personal, on foot.

Should you hike the entire thing (look at you go!), it should take about three and a half to four hours, though I strongly recommend making some stops along the way simply to take it all in. North Dakota is gorgeous, and the Fort Stevenson Loop is an excellent reminder of all its wild beauty.

Along the way, you'll explore dreamlike tree tunnels, awe-inspiring lake views, picturesque cliffs that drop straight to the water (and look absolutely beautiful the entire time), and so much more. I strongly recommend bringing some bug spray along, as ticks can be a nuisance during the warmer months of the year. The park—and this trail—are open year-round, so anyone craving a scenic winter hike in North Dakota might want to consider this one, too.

Of course, it's worth noting that this hike is actually a loop made from numerous other, shorter hikes within Fort Stevenson State Park; you can pick and choose which ones you want to hike, where to go, and how long to stay—the adventure is entirely up to you. Personally, I'm of the opinion that this park is one of the most amazing places in North Dakota, and hiking the Loop Trail makes for a great way to truly experience it.

For more information about this awesome hiking trail in North Dakota, be sure to check out the official Fort Stevenson Loop Trail AllTrails listing. If you're serious about hiking and want to step your game up a notch (or ten), check out AllTrails Plus. I've found it to be enormously helpful, and now I won't hike without it.

Do you have a favorite scenic hiking trail in North Dakota? Tell me everything about it!