North Dakota Road Trip Itinerary
The North Dakota Road Trip is an amazing journey that takes you through some of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes in the United States. Starting in the city of Bismarck, the road trip winds its way through the towns of Valley City, Fort Totten, Washburn, Grassy Butte and Mobridge, covering a distance of around 2212km and taking around 12 days to complete. The best time to take this road trip is during the summer months when the weather is warm and the roads are in good condition.
Along the route, you will experience stunning scenery, from rolling hills to lush forests and open plains. You will also get the chance to visit historical sites and monuments, as well as some of the state's most popular attractions. The North Dakota Road Trip is suitable for all drivers, no matter their experience level, and can be done on a moderate budget. With its wide range of experiences and memories, this road trip will provide an unforgettable journey.
12
number of days
2,212 km
route length
fair
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
low
accident level
START
Bismarck
Distance 2,212 km
Driving time 24.3 h
Pace: fast
663.7 kWh
Airports
BIS
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The city of Bismarck, the capital of North Dakota, is a great starting point for the “North Dakota Road Trip”. Located in the south central part of the state, Bismarck is home to many attractions, both natural and man-made. The city is located along the Missouri River and is surrounded by several parks, including Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park, Fort Stevenson State Park, and the Cross Ranch State Park. The city is also home to the North Dakota State Capitol, the North Dakota State Museum, and the Dakota Zoo.
Visitors to the city can enjoy the many shopping and dining opportunities, including local favorites like the Bismarck Civic Center, the Kirkwood Mall, and the Gateway to Science. Bismarck also has several art galleries, museums, and theaters, including the Bismarck Art and Galleries and the Bismarck Theatre.
The closest international airport to Bismarck is the Bismarck Municipal Airport (BIS), located just seven miles from the city center. Car rentals are available at the airport for those who wish to travel by car.
The “North Dakota Road Trip” is a great way to explore the beauty and culture of the state. From Bismarck, visitors can take in the natural beauty of the Missouri River, explore the historic sites of Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park, or take a trip to the Dakota Zoo. No matter what you’re looking for, Bismarck is the perfect starting point for your next North Dakota adventure.
1
Bismarck
- Valley City
Distance 220 km
Driving time 2.1 h
Pace: fast
66.1 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome to the Bismarck to Valley City road trip! This 137 mile stage of your journey will take you less than 3 hours to complete, and you'll be in for a treat!
In Bismarck, we recommend you visit the North Dakota Heritage Center, where you can learn about the history of the state. In addition, the State Capitol is a must-see and is a great place to take a few photos.
Once you hit Valley City, you'll want to check out the Chautauqua Park, where you can take a leisurely stroll and admire the beautiful scenery. If you're looking for a little more adventure, the Sheyenne River Valley National Scenic Byway is a great place to explore.
No matter what your interests, this stage of your road trip is sure to be a memorable experience. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy the ride!
Valley City - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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2
Valley City
- Fargo
Distance 222 km
Driving time 2.5 h
Pace: fast
66.6 kWh
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Welcome to the Valley City to Fargo road-trip stage! This is one of the most scenic routes in the US, taking you through the Sheyenne National Grassland, with its vast prairie and rolling hills. This 138mi drive will take you less than 3 hours, so buckle up and get ready for an unforgettable journey!
Start your adventure in Valley City, and make sure to visit the Sheyenne River Valley National Scenic Byway, with its stunning views of the Sheyenne River. You can also take a detour to the Valley City National Fish Hatchery, where you can learn about the fish species of the area.
As you make your way through the Sheyenne National Grassland, you’ll be surrounded by vast prairies and rolling hills. Make sure to stop at the Sheyenne River Overlook, where you can admire the stunning views of the river and its surroundings.
Your journey ends in Fargo, the largest city in North Dakota. Here you can explore the historic downtown area, visit the Plains Art Museum, and take a stroll along the Red River.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your road-trip!
Fargo - United States - North America - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
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3
Fargo
- Fort Totten
Distance 288 km
Driving time 2.7 h
Pace: fast
86.3 kWh
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Are you ready for a great road trip from Fargo to Fort Totten? This 179mi journey will take you less than 3 hours, so you can enjoy the sights and the attractions in both places.
In Fargo, we recommend you to visit the Red River Zoo, a great place to admire the beauty of nature and the wildlife. Also, you can take a stroll in the Fargo-Moorhead Heritage Trail and take a break in the many parks, like the Island Park or the Lindenwood Park.
In Fort Totten, you can visit the Devils Lake State Park, a great place to enjoy the outdoors, take a swim in the lake, and admire the beauty of the landscape. Also, don't forget to visit the Fort Totten State Historic Site, a great place to learn about the history of the area.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Have a great journey!
Fort Totten - United States - North America - Road Trip - Flickr
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4
Fort Totten
- Minot
Distance 210 km
Driving time 2.0 h
Pace: fast
62.9 kWh
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Welcome road-trippers! Let us explore the amazing 130mi route from Fort Totten to Minot! The driving time is less than 2 hours, so you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of North Dakota.
Starting in Fort Totten, you can explore the local history at the Fort Totten State Historic Site, with its reconstructed buildings, and the Spirit Lake Sioux Tribe Museum.
Continuing your journey, you can visit the International Peace Garden, a beautiful botanical garden and peace park. It is a great place to take a break and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Finally, you will arrive at Minot. Here you can visit the Scandinavian Heritage Park and learn about the history of the Scandinavian settlers. You can also explore the Roosevelt Park Zoo, a great place to learn about animals and nature.
This is just one of the stages of an amazing tour. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your trip!
Minot - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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5
Minot
- Washburn
Distance 111 km
Driving time 1.1 h
Pace: fast
33.4 kWh
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Welcome to the Minot to Washburn road trip stage! This is one of the most interesting stages of your tour, as it will take you through the beautiful North Dakota landscape. The route is 69mi long and it will take you less than two hours to drive.
Start your journey in Minot, where you can visit the Roosevelt Park Zoo and the Scandinavian Heritage Park. Then, make your way to the small town of Sawyer, where you can find the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center.
Continue your trip to the charming town of Berthold, where you can visit the Berthold Historical Museum. After that, make your way to the town of Plaza, home to the Plaza Historical Museum.
Finally, you will reach Washburn, where you can visit the Fort Mandan Historic Site. Here you will learn about the Lewis & Clark Expedition and the history of the area.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your trip!
Washburn - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikipedia
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6
Washburn
- Killdeer
- New Town
Distance 243 km
Driving time 2.9 h
Pace: fast
72.8 kWh
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Are you looking for an exciting road trip adventure? Look no further! Starting in Washburn, United States, you will pass through Killdeer and end in New Town, a journey of 151 miles that can be completed in fewer than 3 hours. This is one of the stages of a larger tour, so get ready for a unique experience!
In Washburn, you can visit the Washburn Public Library, the Washburn Historical Society, and the Washburn Museum. In Killdeer, you can visit the Killdeer Mountain Historical Museum and the Killdeer Mountain Golf Course. And in New Town, you can visit the New Town Museum, the New Town Art Gallery, and the New Town Historical Society.
For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Get ready to explore the beauty of Washburn, Killdeer, and New Town!
New Town - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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7
New Town
- Theodore Roosvelt N.P.
- Grassy Butte
Distance 239 km
Driving time 2.7 h
Pace: fast
71.8 kWh
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Welcome to the amazing road-trip stage from New Town, United States to Grassy Butte! This stage will take you through Theodore Roosevelt National Park, one of the most beautiful parks in the United States. The distance of this stage is 149 miles and the driving time is fewer than 3 hours.
Theodore Roosevelt National Park is a great place to explore. Here you can find stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and a variety of hiking trails. The park also has a variety of activities such as horseback riding, camping, and bird-watching. Be sure to visit the Painted Canyon, where you can take in breathtaking views of the badlands.
Your journey will end in Grassy Butte, a small town with a lot of charm. Here you can find a variety of restaurants, shops, and attractions. Be sure to visit the Grassy Butte Museum, which showcases the history of the town.
For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Grassy Butte - United States - North America - Road Trip - www.goodfreephotos.com
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8
Grassy Butte
- Theodore Roosvelt N.P.
- Mendora
Distance 86 km
Driving time 0.9 h
Pace: fast
25.9 kWh
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Welcome, road-trippers! This stage of your journey is a 54mi drive from Grassy Butte to Mendora and it will take you less than an hour. You will be travelling through some of the most beautiful and interesting places in the United States.
Your first stop is Theodore Roosevelt National Park. This park is home to a variety of wildlife, including bison, elk, and wild horses. You can also explore the park's many trails and scenic overlooks.
Your next stop is the town of Medora. Here, you can explore the historic streets and take in the stunning views of the Badlands. You can also visit the Medora Musical, an outdoor musical show that takes place in the summer months.
At the end of your journey, you will arrive in Mendora. This small town is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and other attractions. You can also explore the nearby parks and trails.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Mendora - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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9
Mendora
- Mobridge
Distance 388 km
Driving time 5.0 h
Pace: fast
116.4 kWh
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Are you ready for a road trip adventure? Mendora to Mobridge is a 241mi journey, taking no more than 5 hours. This is one of the stages of a larger tour, so buckle up and let's hit the road!
In Mendora, you can visit the historic Mendora Church. Built in the late 1800s, this church is a beautiful example of the area's history.
Continue your journey to Mobridge, where you can explore the Mobridge Historical Museum. Here you can learn about the area's rich history and see artifacts from the past.
We hope you will enjoy this road trip adventure from Mendora to Mobridge. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Mobridge - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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10
Mobridge
- Cannon Ball
- Bismarck
Distance 205 km
Driving time 2.3 h
Pace: fast
61.4 kWh
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Welcome fellow road-trippers! Get ready for an exciting journey from Mobridge to Bismarck, a 127mi drive that will take you less than 3 hours. Starting from Mobridge, you will be passing through Cannon Ball.
The first stop is the Mobridge City Park, where you can enjoy a relaxing stroll and take in the breathtaking views of the Missouri river. Then, you will be heading to Cannon Ball, where you can visit the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation and the Cannon Ball River. Here, you can take a dip in the river and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Finally, you will reach Bismarck, the capital of North Dakota. Here, you can explore the heritage of the city and visit the North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum. You can also take a walk around the Capitol grounds, admire the beautiful architecture, and admire the views of the Missouri River.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, you can consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Let's hit the road!
Bismarck
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The "North Dakota Road Trip" culminates in Bismarck, the capital of North Dakota. Bismarck is known for its historic sites, outdoor activities, and vibrant culture.
For anyone interested in exploring the city’s history, Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park is a must-see. This park is the site of Sitting Bull’s former camp, and visitors can explore the reconstructed fort, the On-A-Slant Mandan Indian Village, and the Custer House.
Bismarck is also home to the Dakota Zoo, which is the largest zoo in the state. This zoo houses over 600 animals, including lions, tigers, and bears. Visitors can also find a variety of reptiles, birds, and farm animals.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Bismarck offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and fishing. The city is home to the Missouri River, which provides a great place for fishing and boating. There are also numerous parks and trails for those looking for a leisurely stroll or a more strenuous hike.
Finally, Bismarck is home to a vibrant cultural scene. The city hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, including the Bismarck Arts and Crafts Fair, the North Dakota State Fair, and the Bismarck Downtown Street Fair. There are also several art galleries, theaters, and music venues in the city.
The nearest international airport to Bismarck is Bismarck Municipal Airport (BIS), located just five miles from the city center.
At the end of the "North Dakota Road Trip", Bismarck is the perfect place to take in all that North Dakota has to offer. From its rich history to its vibrant culture, Bismarck is sure to provide travelers with an unforgettable experience.
North Dakota Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Bismarck
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End:
Bismarck
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Distance:
2,212 km
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Stay:
12 days
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Getting there:
Bismarck Municipal Airport (BIS)
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When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September, October
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on an awe-inspiring North Dakota Road Trip that showcases the state's diverse terrain, from the rolling plains to the rugged Badlands. Starting from the state capital, Bismarck, this journey weaves through quaint towns and stunning landscapes, including Valley City's high bridges, the historical Fort Totten, Washburn's Lewis and Clark heritage, Grassy Butte's Badlands, and the outdoor haven of Mobridge by Lake Oahe. Spanning approximately 1,374 miles (2,212 kilometers), this adventure is manageable for drivers of varying experience and can be comfortably completed in around 12 days.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Bismarck: Start your journey in Bismarck by exploring the North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum and the impressive State Capitol building.
- Valley City: Admire the dramatic vistas from the High Line Bridge and soak in the charming atmosphere of the Sheyenne River Valley.
- Fort Totten: Step back in time at the Fort Totten State Historic Site to learn about its military past and its role in Native American history.
- Washburn: Delve into the epic journey of Lewis and Clark at the Interpretive Center and the nearby reconstructed Fort Mandan.
- Grassy Butte: Traverse the otherworldly terrain of Theodore Roosevelt National Park's North Unit and experience the majesty of the Badlands.
- Mobridge: Indulge in fishing, boating, and exploring the shores of Lake Oahe, one of the largest man-made reservoirs in the country.
Best Time to Go:
The optimal period for the North Dakota Road Trip is during the summer months, when the weather is warm, and the landscape is in full bloom, offering ideal conditions for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Potential Risks:
- Be aware of severe weather, including the possibility of thunderstorms and tornadoes, mainly during spring and summer.
- Winter travel can present challenges with snow, ice, and reduced visibility.
- Some stretches are remote with sparse services and cell phone coverage, so plan accordingly.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- North Dakota's Scenic Drives are often quiet and tranquil, allowing for a serene travel experience.
- The state has a deep Native American heritage, with opportunities to visit reservations and historical sites like the Knife River Indian Villages.
- Witness the impact of the oil industry in boomtowns such as Williston and learn about the state's economic evolution.
- Nature enthusiasts can spot diverse wildlife, including the iconic American bison, playful prairie dogs, and an array of birds, particularly at the Chase Lake National Wildlife Refuge, known for its large pelican population.
A good choice for:
The North Dakota Road Trip is more than just a drive; it's a captivating blend of natural splendor, historical depth, and cultural discovery. Each mile promises a fresh perspective on America's expansive heartland, making it a truly memorable 12-day experience.
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