North Dakota 22 Panoramic Road Itinerary
Experience the natural beauty of North Dakota on the spectacular 22 Panoramic Road. Starting in Killdeer and ending in Grassy Butte, this 229 km journey can be completed in one day, although it's best to take your time to enjoy the sights. Along the way, you'll pass through New Town and Watford City, two small towns with plenty of attractions. Enjoy a stroll through the Old Town Hall in New Town, or visit the Watford City Museum for a look at the area's history. Be sure to take advantage of the great outdoors with a hike or a camping trip. The best time to drive is in the summer months, but be aware of the overall poor road conditions. Despite this, the 22 Panoramic Road is suitable for every driver and can be managed with a moderate budget.
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number of days
229 km
route length
fair
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
low
accident level
START
Killdeer
Distance 229 km
Driving time 2.6 h
Pace: fast
68.6 kWh
Airports
BIS
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Killdeer, North Dakota is a small town located in the western part of the state. It is the starting point of the North Dakota 22 Panoramic Road – a stunning road trip that winds through the magnificent Badlands and Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Killdeer is the perfect starting point for this journey of awe-inspiring views and wildlife.
Once in Killdeer, visitors can explore the charming town and its many attractions. The Killdeer Mountain Museum is a must-see, showcasing the history and culture of the area. The Killdeer Golf Course is ideal for a leisurely afternoon on the links. Or, take a stroll through the Killdeer Nature Trail, a beautiful walking path that winds through the lush landscape.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Dickinson Theodore Roosevelt Regional Airport (DIK). Car rentals are available at the airport, making it easy to begin your journey on the North Dakota 22 Panoramic Road.
Killdeer is the perfect place to start your road trip. With its stunning landscapes and unique attractions, this small town is sure to offer a memorable experience. So, pack your bags and hit the road – the North Dakota 22 Panoramic Road awaits!
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Killdeer
- New Town
Distance 102 km
Driving time 1.2 h
Pace: fast
30.5 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for an awesome road trip? Let's begin in Killdeer, United States, and drive 63 miles to New Town, a journey that will take you fewer than two hours. Along the way, you'll find plenty of attractions to keep you entertained.
In Killdeer, don't miss the Killdeer Mountain Battlefield State Historic Site, a beautiful spot that pays tribute to the Native Americans and early settlers who fought in the battle of Killdeer Mountain. Also, if you're a fan of the outdoors, check out the Killdeer Mountains, which offer great hiking and camping opportunities.
In New Town, be sure to explore the Fort Berthold Indian Reservation, which is home to the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nations. The reservation is a great place to learn about the region's Native American history and culture. Additionally, you can take a stroll through the New Town Nature Park, which features a variety of wildlife and native plants.
We hope you have a great time exploring Killdeer and New Town. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
New Town - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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2
New Town
- Watford City
Distance 79 km
Driving time 1.0 h
Pace: fast
23.7 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome, road-trippers! This stage of your journey is one of the most beautiful and interesting: a 49mi drive from New Town to Watford City, United States. It will take you less than 1 hour to get there, so you can enjoy the scenery and take some pictures along the way.
Start your trip in New Town and visit the beautiful Lake Sakakawea State Park, a great spot for fishing, swimming, and boating. Then, take a break at the New Town Museum and Art Center to admire the many artworks and artifacts.
When you reach Watford City, you'll find plenty of attractions to explore, such as the Theodore Roosevelt National Park and the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame. You can also visit the Watford City Golf Course for a fun game of golf.
For a great shopping experience, visit the Watford City Shopping Center and the Watford City Farmers Market. And don't forget to check out the Watford City Brewing Company for some delicious craft beer.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Watford City - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - pixabay
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3
Watford City
- Grassy Butte
Distance 48 km
Driving time 0.5 h
Pace: fast
14.4 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip experience? Start your journey in Watford City, United States, and drive for about 30 miles to Grassy Butte. The drive should take you less than an hour, so you can relax and enjoy the scenery while you’re on the road.
In Watford City, make sure to visit the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame and the Theodore Roosevelt National Park. The former is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the area, while the latter offers a chance to explore the rugged beauty of the Badlands.
When you arrive in Grassy Butte, you can explore the unique geological formations at the Grassy Butte National Park, or take a walk in the Little Missouri National Grassland.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable road trip experience!
Grassy Butte - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - www.goodfreephotos.com
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Grassy Butte
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Grassy Butte, North Dakota is the ideal destination for those looking to complete their North Dakota 22 Panoramic Road trip. Located in the northwestern corner of the state, Grassy Butte is the perfect end to your journey.
The town of Grassy Butte has plenty of interesting attractions to explore. Be sure to check out the Grassy Butte Community Center, the former schoolhouse converted into a museum. Here, you can learn all about the history of the town and the surrounding area. Visit the Grassy Butte Wind Farm to see the impressive turbines that generate energy from the area’s powerful winds.
If you’re looking for outdoor activities, the area around Grassy Butte has plenty to offer. The nearby Little Missouri River is a great spot for fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching. There are also plenty of trails for hiking and biking, so you can get out and explore the area’s stunning natural beauty.
No matter how you choose to spend your time in Grassy Butte, you’re sure to have a great time. The nearest international airport is in Minot, North Dakota (MOT). So, pack your bags and head to Grassy Butte to complete your North Dakota 22 Panoramic Road trip.
North Dakota 22 Panoramic Road at a glance
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Start:
Killdeer
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End:
Grassy Butte
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Distance:
229 km
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Stay:
1 day
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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 a picturesque adventure along the Scenic Highway 22, also known as the Killdeer Mountain Four Bears Scenic Byway, in North Dakota. This captivating route extends approximately 229 km (142 miles) from the historic town of Killdeer, through the rugged Badlands terrain, to the culturally rich community at Grassy Butte, and finally the earthlodge village of Four Bears in New Town. This Scenic Drive is not just a journey through diverse landscapes but also a passage through time, revealing North Dakota's geological wonders and rich cultural heritage. While it's possible to complete in a day, travelers are encouraged to take their time, immersing themselves in the serene environment and the unique character of each stop along the way.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
This scenic byway guides Roadtrippers through a variety of attractions, including the picturesque Little Missouri State Park, near Killdeer, where hiking trails offer stunning Badlands vistas. In New Town, the Four Bears Bridge stretches impressively over Lake Sakakawea and is a testament to engineering and cultural significance, connecting visitors to the traditions of the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara tribes. Watford City offers a gateway to the Theodore Roosevelt National Park's North Unit, an unspoiled natural retreat brimming with wildlife, where the former president found solace and inspiration. The Pioneer Museum of McKenzie County in Watford City further enriches your journey with insights into the pioneer spirit and the oil boom that shaped the region.
Best Time to Go:
The optimal time to embark on this Scenic Drive is from late spring to early fall, with summer months providing lush vegetation and comfortable conditions for exploring outdoor wonders. This period also brings an array of local events and festivals, adding a lively dimension to your Road Trip.
Potential Risks:
While traveling, be prepared for varying Road conditions and remote areas with limited services. Keep an eye on the weather, as sudden changes can occur, and ensure your vehicle is well-maintained for the journey.
Facts for Roadtrippers:
The Scenic Highway 22 is accessible to motorists with any level of experience. With careful planning, it's possible to enjoy this Trip on a moderate budget, making it an attractive option for a range of travelers. Enrich your experience by visiting the interpretive centers and engaging with the local communities en route.
A good choice for:
The Scenic Highway 22 Road Trip is an enriching experience for those eager to delve into North Dakota's splendid natural scenery, historical sites, and cultural landmarks. It's an ideal exploration for history buffs, nature lovers, and cultural enthusiasts alike, inviting a leisurely pace to fully savor the journey's diverse offerings.