Theodore Roosevelt National Park, situated in the rugged landscape of North Dakota, serves as a living monument to America’s 26th President, Theodore Roosevelt, who sought solace and rejuvenation in the Badlands during the 1880s. The park showcases the natural beauty of the area’s unique topography, characterized by expansive colorful badlands, rolling plains, and meandering rivers. Bison, an iconic species of the North American prairies, roam freely throughout the park, embodying the spirit of the Old West and conservation success stories, having rebounded from the brink of extinction in the late 19th century.

Adventure Awaits: Exploring the Wilds Near Theodore Roosevelt National Park

As the dawn creeps over the rugged landscape of the Badlands, casting a golden glow over the wind-sculpted buttes and rolling prairies, Theodore Roosevelt National Park awakens to the sound of nature’s call. This majestic terrain, named after the 26th president of the United States who once hunted and ranch here, offers more than just a glimpse into America’s past; it invites the modern adventurer to explore its vast, untamed wilderness. Known for its dramatic landscapes, abundant wildlife, and the history that echoes through its canyons and rivers, the area surrounding Theodore Roosevelt National Park is a playground for those seeking adventure under the open sky.

Top Five Must-Do Adventures Near Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Maah Daah Hey Trail: Mountain Biking

Length: Up to 144 miles
Difficulty: Varies
Venture into the heart of the Badlands on the Maah Daah Hey Trail, a challenge for mountain bikers seeking the ride of a lifetime. With varying terrains that test your skills and endurance, this trail offers breathtaking views, encounters with wildlife, and the solitude of nature. Each pedal brings a new discovery, from hidden valleys to towering plateaus, making every mile a unique experience.

Little Missouri River: Kayaking

Distance: Flexible
Skill Level: Intermediate to advanced
Paddle through the heart of the Badlands on the Little Missouri River, where the waters carve a path through ancient landscapes. Ideal for kayakers looking for a mix of calm stretches and challenging rapids, this journey offers an intimate view of the park’s beauty, accessible only from the water. As you navigate the twists and turns, keep an eye out for bison, elk, and prairie dogs watching from the banks.

Painted Canyon: Hiking

Trail Length: 4.2 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Discover the kaleidoscope of colors in Painted Canyon, a moderate hike that rewards adventurers with panoramic views of the Badlands’ layered rock formations. The trail descends into the canyon, allowing hikers to immerse themselves in the vibrant hues and textures that give this canyon its name. It’s a photographic journey through time, showcasing millions of years of geological history with every step.

Petrified Forest Loop: Trail Running

Loop Length: 10.4 miles
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
For the trail runner seeking solitude and scenery, the Petrified Forest Loop offers a unique terrain sprinkled with ancient petrified wood. This serene landscape provides a challenging yet rewarding run, where the quietude is only broken by the sound of your footsteps and the occasional wildlife sighting. It’s a rare opportunity to blend fitness with the exploration of a prehistoric world.

Bully Pulpit Golf Course: Adventure Golfing

Par: 72
Yardage: 7,166
Golf enthusiasts looking for a unique challenge will find the Bully Pulpit Golf Course to be an unparalleled experience. Carved out of the Badlands, this course offers stunning views and a layout that demands strategy and precision. With holes that thread through natural amphitheaters and skirt along the Little Missouri River, each round is an adventure in its own right.

Additional Adventures by Category

Biking: Billings County Bike Paths

Experience the enchanting landscapes of Billings County on its extensive network of bike paths. Offering a variety of difficulties, these trails wind through picturesque prairies and alongside rugged cliffs, serving as the perfect day activity for families and solo adventurers alike.

Climbing: Square Butte

Height: Approximately 150 feet
Difficulty: Intermediate
Square Butte stands as a beacon for climbers. Its distinct shape and accessible climbs make it a fantastic spot for those looking to ascend the Badlands. Its summit offers unparalleled views of the surrounding wilderness, a worthy prize after a challenging climb.

Hiking: Caprock-Coulee Trail

Trail Length: 4.3 miles
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
The Caprock-Coulee Trail is an ideal day hike offering a blend of Badlands topography, from dense juniper forests to expansive vistas. With minimal elevation gain, it’s accessible for hikers of all skill levels, promising an enjoyable journey through the park’s varied landscapes.

Trail Running: Achenbach Trail

Trail Length: 18 miles
Difficulty: Challenging
The Achenbach Trail, designed for the experienced trail runner, loops through some of the park’s most remote areas. Offering steep climbs, rapid descents, and river crossings, it’s a test of endurance and agility against the backdrop of the Badlands’ stunning scenery.

Paddling: Patterson Lake

Area: Moderate-sized lake
Difficulty: Beginner-friendly
Patterson Lake provides a serene setting for paddlers of all levels. Whether you’re in a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard, the calm waters offer a peaceful escape with scenic views of the surrounding hills and an opportunity to spot local wildlife.

Other Must-Do Adventures

Roosevelt’s Maltese Cross Cabin

Step back in time at Theodore Roosevelt’s Maltese Cross Cabin, where the future president lived as a young rancher. This historic site offers insights into Roosevelt’s life and the experiences that shaped his conservation efforts.

Cottonwood Campground: Star Gazing

Experience the magic of the night sky at Cottonwood Campground, where minimal light pollution allows for exceptional star gazing. On a clear night, the Milky Way illuminates the landscape, creating a celestial spectacle not to be missed.

Medora Musical

Enjoy an evening under the stars at the Medora Musical, an ode to the spirit of the West. This outdoor musical extravaganza celebrates the region’s history and culture with lively performances that captivate audiences of all ages.

Horseback Riding: Peaceful Valley Ranch

Explore the Badlands the way Roosevelt did – on horseback. Peaceful Valley Ranch offers guided rides that traverse scenic trails, providing a unique perspective of the park’s rugged beauty.

North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame

Immerse yourself in the cowboy culture at the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame. This museum honors the men, women, and rodeo stars who shaped the American West, offering a comprehensive look at the region’s ranching and rodeo history.

Theodore Roosevelt National Park and its surrounding areas offer adventurers a playground of natural beauty and historical significance. Whether you’re paddling down the Little Missouri, biking the Maah Daah Hey, or exploring the region’s rich cowboy heritage, the spirit of adventure that drew Roosevelt to these lands lives on. So lace up your boots, grab your gear, and prepare to write your own chapter in the ongoing saga of the Badlands.