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HomeRoad TripsNorth AmericaUnited StatesNorth USANorth DakotaSakakawea Panoramic Road
North Dakota

Sakakawea Panoramic Road

Washburn - Hazen - Lake Ilo - Grassy Butte

Expect on your itinerary

Security Security
Landscape Landscape
Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Wildlife Wildlife
Historical sites Historical sites
Comfort Comfort
Road conditions Road conditions
Beach Beach
Sakakawea Panoramic Road ACTIVATE MAP Stages3 km183 h/stage0.6

Best months to drive

I II III IV V VI
VII VIII IX X XI XII

Road Trip Costs

How much does it cost to go on a Sakakawea Panoramic Road in North Dakota?

Economy
Low budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 45EUR drive & more 25EUR sleep & more 77EUR eat & more 72EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 174EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 219EUR
Standard
Mid budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 54EUR drive & more 38EUR sleep & more 121EUR eat & more 108EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 267EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 321EUR
Premium
High budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 90EUR drive & more 50EUR sleep & more 198EUR eat & more 144EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 392EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 482EUR
Camper
On the road in RV, overnight at camp grounds with self-catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 225EUR drive & more 50EUR sleep & more 55EUR eat & more 72EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 177EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 402EUR
Car rental Book hotel Flights
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Sakakawea Panoramic Road Itinerary

Take a journey of adventure and discovery on the Sakakawea Panoramic Road! Start your journey in Washburn, United States, and end in Grassy Butte, United States, covering a distance of 183km. Along the way, you'll pass through Hazen and Lake Ilo, both of which offer stunning views and plenty of opportunities for exploration. During the summer, the area is alive with wildflowers, while the fall brings a burst of vibrant colors. This road trip is suitable for every driver, and can be managed on a moderate budget. The recommended time to complete the trip is 1 day, although you may wish to take more time to explore the towns and attractions along the way. Be aware that the road conditions can be poor in places, so it's best to plan your trip for the best time of the year. So, don't delay - embark on the Sakakawea Panoramic Road and get ready for an unforgettable experience!
number of days 1 number of days
route length 183 km route length
budget fair budget
good for family good for
traffic direction on the right traffic direction
accident level low accident level

START Washburn

Distance 183 km Driving time 1.9 h Pace: fast 55.0 kWh Airports BIS
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Washburn, located in McLean County in the United States, is the perfect starting point for the Sakakawea Panoramic Road. It is home to a plethora of interesting sights and activities. For starters, Washburn is home to the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center which offers visitors a look into the lives of the two famous figures. The interpretive center provides a great way to learn more about the history of the area. It also offers an interactive museum, a replica of the keelboat, and an interpretive trail. For those looking to experience more of the outdoors, Washburn also boasts the Fort Stevenson State Park. This park has a variety of activities, such as fishing, boating, camping, and hiking. It is also home to a variety of wildlife, such as deer, foxes, and badgers. Those looking to travel to Washburn by air can fly into Bismarck Municipal Airport (BIS). Car rentals are available at the airport, making it easy for visitors to start their Sakakawea Panoramic Road journey. In short, Washburn is the perfect starting point for the Sakakawea Panoramic Road. Visitors can explore the history of the area at the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, experience the outdoors at the Fort Stevenson State Park, and easily rent a car to begin their journey.

1 Washburn - Hazen

Distance 54 km Driving time 0.6 h Pace: fast 16.1 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips accommodation options
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Welcome road-trippers! Get ready to embark on an amazing road trip from Washburn to Hazen, a journey of 33 miles that will take you less than an hour to complete. Start your trip in Washburn, where you can visit the Washburn A Mill and the Great River Road Visitor Center. The Washburn A Mill is a National Historic Landmark, and the Visitor Center has interactive exhibits that tell the story of the area’s history. Continue your journey to Hazen, where you can explore the North Dakota State Fairgrounds and the Hazen Museum. The State Fairgrounds feature a variety of activities, from horse racing to carnival rides. The Hazen Museum is home to a variety of artifacts, including a collection of vintage cars. Along the way, you'll also find plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. Stop for a picnic at the Apple Creek Nature Preserve or take a hike at the Little Missouri National Grassland. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the Itinerary of this stage. Have a safe and enjoyable journey!

2 Hazen - Lake Ilo

Distance 83 km Driving time 0.9 h Pace: fast 25.0 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips
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Welcome to the wonderful road trip stage from Hazen to Lake Ilo! This route is part of a larger tour, and it is a great opportunity to explore the beauty of North Dakota. The entire trip takes less than an hour, as it is only 52 mi long. In Hazen, you can visit the Lake Ilo Recreation Area, a beautiful spot to enjoy nature and relax. You can also explore the Hazen Museum and learn more about the history of the city. As you continue your journey, you will reach Lake Ilo. Here, you can visit the Ilo Park, a great place to go for a walk and admire the stunning views of the lake. You can also visit the Ilo Public Beach and have a picnic there. These are just a few of the attractions you can visit during this stage of your road trip. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

3 Lake Ilo - Grassy Butte

Distance 46 km Driving time 0.5 h Pace: fast 13.9 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips
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Start your journey in Lake Ilo, United States, and explore the scenic beauty of Killdeer and Grassy Butte. This 29mi road trip will take you less than 1 hour to complete and is one of the most beautiful stages of your journey. At Lake Ilo, you can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the lake, its walking trails and the magnificent views of the surrounding area. In Killdeer, you can explore the Killdeer Mountains and the Killdeer Wildlife Refuge. Finally, in Grassy Butte, you can take a walk along the scenic trails and explore the breathtaking views of the Badlands. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the beauty of the Lake Ilo, Killdeer and Grassy Butte.

  Grassy Butte

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Grassy Butte is the perfect ending point for the Sakakawea Panoramic Road road trip. Located in the western part of North Dakota, this small town offers plenty of sightseeing opportunities and activities. The stunning views of the badlands and rolling hills of the North Dakota prairie provide plenty of opportunities for stunning photography. The diverse wildlife of the area can be seen on hikes through the nearby Theodore Roosevelt National Park. The nearby Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site is a great place to learn about the history of the area and the important role the trading post played in the fur trade. The National Grasslands Visitor Center is also close by, offering a variety of educational programs about the area. In town, visitors can check out the Grassy Butte Historical Museum and the nearby Grassy Butte Church. The area also boasts a wide variety of restaurants and shops. For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Bismarck Airport (BIS). From there, it is a two and a half hour drive to Grassy Butte. Grassy Butte is a great place to end the Sakakawea Panoramic Road road trip. With its stunning views, diverse wildlife, and educational opportunities, there is something for everyone in this small North Dakota town.

Sakakawea Panoramic Road at a glance

Before you set off

The Sakakawea Scenic Byway is an enchanting 113-mile (183km) journey from Washburn to Grassy Butte in North Dakota, United States. This Road Trip allows travelers to immerse themselves in the breathtaking natural beauty and rich history of the region, featuring the rolling hills of the Missouri River Valley and the rugged badlands. Along the way, explorers can visit charming towns, experience cultural heritage, and enjoy a variety of recreational activities.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

  • Washburn: The starting point of the journey, home to the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, which offers insightful exhibits about the famous expedition.
  • Hazen: A welcoming community where visitors can enjoy scenic views, local parks, and the nearby Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site.
  • Lake Ilo National Wildlife Refuge: A serene spot for birdwatching, hiking, and fishing, where the beauty of prairie wetlands unfolds.
  • Grassy Butte: The final destination, located near the North Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park, is known for its picturesque landscapes and the unique Grassy Butte Post Office, a log cabin listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Best Time to Go:

The ideal times to embark on the Sakakawea Scenic Byway are during the summer and autumn months. Summer offers wildflower blossoms and longer daylight hours for exploration, while autumn provides a stunning display of colorful foliage. These seasons offer the best driving conditions and the most vibrant scenery, making the journey even more unforgettable.

Potential Risks:

Travelers should be aware that Road conditions may vary, especially in more remote sections of the byway. Caution is advised, and a vehicle suitable for rougher terrain might be necessary. Always check local weather and Road status before embarking on your Trip.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

  • The byway is named after Sacagawea, the Shoshone woman who played a crucial role as an interpreter and guide for the Lewis and Clark expedition.
  • The journey is suitable for every driver, with a moderate budget in mind, and offers opportunities for camping, hiking, and historical exploration.
  • While the itinerary can be completed in a single day, allocating additional time allows for a more leisurely and in-depth exploration of the area's attractions and natural wonders.
  • Planning the Trip around the best seasonal weather and local events, such as town festivals or historical reenactments, will greatly enhance the overall experience.

A good choice for:

Embarking on the Sakakawea Scenic Byway Road Trip promises an unforgettable adventure through the heart of North Dakota's stunning landscapes. With ample opportunities for discovery, recreation, and enjoyment, it's a journey that offers both the thrill of the open Road and the tranquility of nature, steeped in the rich tapestry of American history.

Facts for safer driving in North Dakota

drink drive limit drink drive limit 0.5
max speed urban max speed urban 40 km/h
max speed rural max speed rural 72 km/h
max speed highway max speed highway 129 km/h
headlights at daytime headlights at daytime off
fire extinguisher fire extinguisher yes
tolls tolls yes
seat belts seat belts yes

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