North Dakota is one huge state with so much to see and explore. Luckily, there are some of the best road trips in North Dakota that will let you see as much of it as possible. If you’re itching to get out on the road and see something new, try one of these road trips that will take you to the best of the best in the state. From natural beauty to a family-friendly road trip adventure, the best road trips in North Dakota will definitely give you the opportunity to see the state to its fullest.
Route: Theodore Roosevelt National Park > Little Missouri State Park > Medora > Sully Creek State Park > White Butte
Distance: 200 miles
Trip Time: 3 hours 34 minutes
At 200 miles and under four hours of driving time, this road trip around the North Dakota badlands can be done in a day. Not only will you see some of the most scenic parts of the badlands, but stop in the charming towns of Medora and Amidon. Once you start driving, you'll easily see why this is one of the best North Dakota road trips.
Route: Theodore Roosevelt National Park - South Unit > Theodore Roosevelt National Park - North Unit > Lewis and Clark State Park > Des Lacs Lake National Wildlife Refuge > Lake Metigoshe State Park > International Peace Garden > Icelandic State Park > Turtle River State Park > Sully's Hill National Game Preserve > Beaver Lake State Park
Distance: 784 miles
Trip Time: 14 hours
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With 10 stops and 14 hours of drive time, this next road trip through North Dakota should be done over the course of a long weekend. This is an epic road trip to experience some of the best parts of the state's great outdoors. From state parks to a game preserve and the ever-so-lovely International Peace Garden, you'll be able to take in some jaw-dropping beauty.
Route: Riverside Cemetery > Empire Arts Center > Fort Totten State Historic Site > Sage Hill Bed & Breakfast > Harvey Public Library > Former Governor's Mansion > Custer's House
Distance: miles
Trip Time: *
If you're looking for a unique North Dakota road trip itinerary, check out this one that leads to some of the state's most haunted places. But only take this trip if you're brave enough. It goes through eastern and central North Dakota and stops by some of the most notoriously haunted places in the state. It will probably take you more than one day to get through, but don't worry, we recommended a place to stay on the trip... and that's haunted, too.
Route: Medora > Theodore Roosevelt National Park > Little Missouri National Grassland > Missouri-Yellowstone Confluence > Lewis & Clark State Park > Four Bears Memorial Bridge > Lake Ilo National Wildlife Refuge > Enchanted Highway > White Butte
Distance: 505 miles
Trip Time: 9 hours 39 minutes
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This is one of the best routes to take to see all the beauty that western North Dakota, holds. Badlands, rolling prairies, and more await you on this trip. You'll get to see so much along the way!
Route: Lewis and Clark State Park > Little Missouri State Park > Sully Creek State Park > Beaver Lake State Park > Grahams Island State Park
Distance: 564 miles
Trip Time: 9n hours 48 minutes
Follow this North Dakota road trip map for an epic adventure to five of the least-visited state parks. Each park has its own unique attributes and beauty and visiting each one gives a great overview of what the state offers.
Route: Devils Lake > Lake Metigoshe > Des Lacs National Wildlife Refuge > Crow Flies High State Recreation Area > Theodore Roosevelt National Park - North Unit > Medora > White Butte > Lake Tschida > Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park
Distance: 673 miles
Trip Time: 12 hours
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Summer is one of the best times of the year to take a road trip. And if you're looking to visit a few lakes, parks, and more over the season, this summer road trip in North Dakota is for you!
Route: Lindenwood Park in Fargo > Red River > Turtle River State Park in Arvilla > Icelandic State Park in Cavalier > Pembina Gorge in Walhalla > Lake Metigoshe in Bottineau > Devils Lake
Distance: 444 miles
Trip Time: 7 hours 46 minutes
Take a mesmerizing road trip through upper North Dakota and the swaths of bright orange forests that can be found there each year during the fall. These stops are great to see the changing leaves when they are at their most vibrant. Take your camera with you on this trip or you'll regret it if you don't, it's just that beautiful!
Route: Family Bakery & Restaurant in Bottineau > Hunter Cafe & Bakery in Hunter > Deaner's Diner in West Fargo > Tower Travel Center Cafe in Tower City > Fried's Family Restaurant in Mandan
Distance: 488 miles
Trip Time: 7 hours 36 minutes
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During the winter months, you'll probably want to spend more time indoors than outside. With bitter cold temperatures, we suggest taking a pie shop road trip through North Dakota. Just bring your sweet tooth along for this ride -- you're gonna need it as you indulge in some of the best pies around the state!
Route: Dakota Zoo > Lewis & Clark Riverboat > National Buffalo Museum > Red River Zoo > Northern Air Family Fun Center
Distance: 276 miles
Trip Time: 4 hours 18 minutes
Need a trip that the whole family can enjoy? Well, here's a North Dakota road trip itinerary that is kid-friendly yet adults can have fun on too. Starting in Bismarck, this route will take you to Fargo, and there's an overnight accommodation suggestion in this itinerary as well. Check it out — this may just be one of the best road trips in North Dakota you take!
Road Trip to North Dakota Landmarks & Natural Wonders
Route: Medora > Theodore Roosevelt National Park - North Unit > Lake Sakakawea > Rugby > The International Peace Garden > Pembina Gorge > Dakota Thunder
Distance: 656 miles
Trip Time: 11 hours 25 minutes
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Between the badlands, the state's largest lake, and the geographical center of North America, this North Dakota road trip itinerary is hard to beat! There are so many fascinating parts of this gorgeous part of the country, so take a drive, take it all in, and enjoy!
The Old Red Old Ten is a scenic byway that will take you to some of the most picturesque small towns in North Dakota. This is the best road trip to take in North Dakota if you want to see the quaint, peaceful small towns that are still alive and well today. This route will take you through small towns of many sizes, all of which are unique and some that have special attractions along the way. And all of this is through the gorgeous countryside and prairies of the state on one incredibly scenic drive.
Which of these North Dakota road trip ideas are you most excited about? Which one will you do first? Do you prefer weekend road trips in North Dakota or quick road trips in North Dakota? Please let us know! For more to explore, check out this list of some of the best hiking trails in North Dakota:
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
If you ask us, the North Dakota scenic drives are some of the best in the nation. For example, the well-traveled loops in Theodore Roosevelt National Park are second to none. But what about some scenic byways near me that aren't quite as experienced? The spot we're featuring today is undoubtedly one of the best scenic drives in North Dakota, taking you through gorgeous scenery and even one of the state's most charming small towns. It's a short trip,at not even an hour's drive time, but we love the Des Lacs National Wildlife Refuge Scenic Backway near Burke and Ward Counties.
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This scenic byway in ND is only about 13.5 miles in length. Make a few stops along the route and it will make for a perfect afternoon of fun, but driving straight through won't even take a full hour.
The road skirts along all three sections of the lakes, starting at the Lower Des Lacs Lake, going up along the Middle Des Lacs Lake, and finally ending at the southern edge of the Upper Des Lacs Lake.
There are plenty of areas to stop along the way. Check out the Munch's Coulee National Recreation Trail. It weaves among the prairie grasses and offers some truly breathtaking views of the water and surrounding hills.
For more information about this 1.1-mile loop trail, check out our friends at AllTrails.
Of course, at any wildlife refuge, you'll want to keep your eyes peeled for some of the animals that call this place home. Beavers, porcupines, and deer are just a few of the many critters that you might catch a glimpse of here.
Mostly, Des Lacs National Wildlife Refuge is known as a stopover point for thousands of migratory birds. Tons of species utilize this refuge on their migration routes, including swans, pelicans, and everything in between.
However, this drive doesn't just go through the wildlife refuge. You'll also pass right through one of the most charming small towns in North Dakota: Kenmare.
From the gorgeous natural scenery to the enjoyable small town, it's easy to see why the Des Lacs National Wildlife Refuge Scenic Backway is one of the best scenic drives in North Dakota.
