It's a shame that most people stereotype North Dakota as being mostly flat. The truth of the matter is that they don't have any idea what they're missing. From the rugged badlands to the gently rolling hills of the prairie pothole region to the huge and beautiful river valleys that make up the state, there is a little bit of everything. You don't have to travel the world to see unimaginably gorgeous natural settings. You can stay right here in the Peace Garden State for that. Don't believe me? Then you haven't visited the following places. They're some of the most beautiful places in North Dakota.
1. Chase Lake National Wildlife Refuge
This large lake near Medina, North Dakota becomes a bird paradise during certain times of the year. Thousands upon thousands of birds, specifically white pelicans, nest here. It is an amazing sight to behold in person. That, and the lake itself, is stunning.
2. Theodore Roosevelt National Park
This place needs no introduction. North Dakota's most famous and popular park rests in the western region and is visited by thousands of people every year. The painted canyons of the badlands here are mesmerizing to see. Exploring this spectacular place brings beauty at every turn and a whole lot of bison and wild horses, too.
This utterly incredible video tour of Theodore Roosevelt National Park is absolutely worth watching, especially if you can't make it out yourself:
This scenic lake is located near Wishek, North Dakota, and is a picture-perfect waterside destination. Whether you want to take a stroll along the trails around the lake or jump into the water at the beach, Beaver Lake is undeniably pretty and a lot of fun.
4. Sullys Hill National Game Preserve
Right on the edges of North Dakota's largest natural lake, Devils Lake, is this truly breathtaking preserved area. Trails up through the dense trees will take you to the top of Sullys Hill where you can see the best view of the lake possible.
North Dakota's other largest lake, this time man-made, is Lake Sakakawea. It's hard to beat the recreational opportunities at this lake, and it's also hard to deny how gorgeous it truly is. You can experience it at places like Fort Stevenson State Park, Lake Sakakawea State Park, or Lewis and Clark State Park.
If you're looking for the perfect fall destination for future leaf-peeping excursions, this is the place you absolutely must go. The Pembina Gorge is near Walhalla, North Dakota, and has awe-inspiring views like this one. You don't even need to plan your visit during the fall months for this area to look this pretty. You can actually visit year-round and experience how lovely it truly is.
Take a trip into this fantastic state park near the adorable little town of Fort Ransom, North Dakota. The Sheyenne River creates the perfect valley of rolling hills and secret meadows tucked away among the trees. The park offers plenty of trails, cabins, yurts, and campgrounds for you to experience for yourself.
8. Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park
This state park contains awesome natural sights, in addition to a deep and well-preserved history. It is located near Mandan, North Dakota, and has a few key spots that make it stand out from the rest. The fort itself is fun to visit, as is the beautiful On-A-Slant village along the river. That, plus great trails and the state's only trolley ride, you've got a place worthy of your bucket list.
Take in the sight of this record-breaking bridge along a scenic riverfront in Valley City, North Dakota. This quaint little park offers the perfect view of the Hi-Line Railroad Bridge. It's also a peaceful place to have a picnic and take in the beautiful surrounding scenery.
10. Lake Metigoshe
Tucked away in the Turtle Mountains of North Dakota is this absolutely jaw-dropping lake. It's no surprise why this is one of the state's most popular destinations. It will almost make you feel like you've stepped into some enchanted forest with secret ponds and creeks, and of course, the big and beautiful Lake Metigoshe itself. This area is especially great in the fall when the vivid colors are reflected in the calm waters below.
Experience one of the last untouched stretches of the mighty Missouri River at this state park near Hensler, North Dakota. Don't be surprised if you see quite a bit of wildlife while you're here. Bison, deer, and plenty of fascinating birds can be spotted at Cross Ranch State Park.
Where else in North Dakota would you consider a must-see place? There are plenty of gorgeous locations here, it's hard to name them all. That's part of what makes North Dakota "legendary" after all.
There's a lot more where this came from and we even put together a road trip to explore some of these natural scenic places here in the Peace Garden State.
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