Lake Metigoshe State Park is a stunningly beautiful public recreation area located in the Turtle Mountains nearby the US/Canadian border. It's pretty special year-round, but there's something particularly incredible about it when the leaves begin to change and the air starts getting a little chillier day by day. This breathtaking fall hike in North Dakota will blow you away in the best way possible; it's amazing during green summers, but it's even more incredible during golden autumns.
When it comes to state parks, Lake Metigoshe isn't really all that enormous.
It spans just 1,500-ish acres, but packed into that relatively small space is a lot of magic - especially come fall.
Old Oak Trail is a three-mile-long nature trail surrounded by large, mature trees.
Each year, as summer wanes and fall begins to take full hold, the trees surrounding Old Oak Trail seem to come alive in blazing ambers, brilliant golds, and stunning oranges.
Lake Metigoshe State Park, along with Old Oak Trail, is one of the most popular destinations in North Dakota, attracting visitors from all over the country with its incredible natural beauty.
The park is open year-round, of course, and we definitely suggest visiting during each season just for the experiences each brings. Spring is for wildflowers and brilliant new growth, summer is for vivid, lush green forests, autumn is for vibrant color and chilly breezes, and in the winter, the area becomes something of a wonderland.
Old Oak Trail was certified as a National Recreation Trail in 1976.
For decades, it's stunned and thrilled explorers with its awe-inspiring majesty. It can be a little bit challenging at certain points, so do keep that in mind, though for the most part, it is appropriate for most skill levels.
You'll certainly want to keep returning, day after day, to enjoy the changing season; peak color is fleeting, and it'll be gone before you know it.
No matter when you visit, it's sure to be amazing - but autumn is especially so.
Off-pavement bicycling is permitted on the trail, as are dogs (as long as they remain on a leash). Make sure to pack out whatever you pack in - leave no trace, and keep our state parks just as amazing as always for generations to come.
So, what do you think? Will you be embarking on this gorgeous fall hike in North Dakota? Tell us all about your autumn plans in the comments. For details on when and where to see the best fall foliage in the state, take a look at this article.
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