The best cycling routes in North Dakota

Embark on a challenging touring bicycle adventure through Theodore Roosevelt National Park, where the landscape unfolds like a 'painted desert'. You'll navigate unique badlands formations, passing colorful sandstone pillars, hoodoos, and mesas. Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife, including bison and wild horses, especially as you approach viewpoints like Boicourt Overlook. This difficult route covers 34.8 miles (56.0 km) with a significant elevation gain of 2482 feet (756 metres), typically taking around 3 hours and 36 minutes to complete.

When planning your visit, be aware that the primary cycling routes within the park use paved or dirt roads shared with vehicles, including large RVs. Road shoulders can be absent in certain areas, so exercise caution, particularly if you're riding during the peak traffic months from June to September. Always be prepared for shared road conditions and plan your ride accordingly.

The park offers a striking contrast between its rugged badlands and the expansive prairie, creating a truly unique cycling experience. While the famous Maah Daah Hey Trail is nearby, remember that bicycles are not permitted on its sections that pass through the actual National Park lands. This route provides a distinct opportunity to immerse yourself in the park's natural beauty and geological wonders.

Embark on an easy touring cycling adventure along the Red River Trail Loop, a paved multi-use path offering continuous views of the Red River as it winds through Fargo, North Dakota. This pleasant route covers 10.6 miles (17.1 km) with a gentle elevation gain of just 148 feet (45 metres), making it accessible for most riders. You can expect to complete the loop in approximately 59 minutes, enjoying the flat terrain and urban landscapes. As you ride, you'll pass through scenic spots like Lindenwood Park, providing a refreshing riverside setting.

Planning your visit to the Red River Trail Loop is straightforward, as the Red River Valley bike trails are generally accessible. You'll find parking available at various points along the route, making it convenient to start your ride. The multi-use paths are well-suited for touring cycling and can be enjoyed in either direction, giving you flexibility in how you experience the loop. Consider starting your ride in the morning or late afternoon to enjoy cooler temperatures and softer light along the river.

This loop is a prime example of Fargo's commitment to outdoor recreation, showcasing the natural beauty of the Red River within an urban environment. The trail highlights the unique blend of natural and developed areas that characterize the Red River Valley. It offers a great opportunity to explore the city from a different perspective, connecting you with local parks and the river's ecosystem.

Embark on an easy touring cycling adventure from Bismarck to Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park. This route spans 19.2 miles (30.9 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 296 feet (90 metres), taking approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes to complete. As you pedal, you will experience diverse terrain, from paved sections to hard-packed single-track, winding through native prairie and green ash woodlands. Enjoy scenic views of the Missouri and Heart River bottoms, culminating in panoramic vistas of the On-A-Slant Village and the city of Bismarck.

Accessing the Bismark to Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park route is straightforward; you can easily reach it from the city via the paved Missouri Valley Millennium Legacy Trail. Once you arrive at Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park, ample parking is available for your convenience. Consider extending your visit to explore the park's amenities, which include options for camping, cabins, and guided tours. This makes it an ideal destination for a longer outing, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the area's offerings.

This touring bicycle route offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. You will pass by reconstructed Mandan earthlodges, providing a glimpse into the region's rich past. Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park itself holds the distinction of being North Dakota's oldest state park, preserving important cultural and natural heritage. The trail's varied landscape and historical points of interest make it a compelling choice for a day trip or an extended stay.

Embark on a challenging touring bicycle route through Theodore Roosevelt National Park, where you'll encounter spectacular vistas of the Little Missouri River. The trail winds past tall cottonwood trees and impressive buttes, leading you to the highlight, Oxbow Overlook, which offers a unique perspective of the river's meander. This difficult 27.1 miles (43.6 km) route involves gaining 1887 feet (575 metres) in elevation and typically takes about 2 hours and 48 minutes to complete.

This route is primarily an auto tour within the North Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park, making it readily accessible for touring cyclists. The path is 14 miles one-way, meaning you'll cover a 28-mile round trip that concludes at the overlook. Be prepared for potentially strong west winds, which can add to the challenge of your ride. Plan your visit accordingly to account for these conditions and enjoy the journey.

The route offers a deep dive into the unique Badlands landscape, characterized by its distinctive geological formations. As you cycle, you'll be surrounded by the expansive Little Missouri National Grasslands, showcasing mixed-grass prairie. Keep an eye out for wildlife; you might even spot bison roaming freely in this natural habitat. This experience provides a true sense of the region's wild beauty and ecological significance.

Embark on the Harwood loop for an easy touring bicycle ride, offering a peaceful journey through the Fargo area. This predominantly paved and flat route spans 21.8 miles (35.1 km), with a minimal elevation gain of just 126 feet (38 metres). You can expect to complete the loop in about 1 hour and 58 minutes, enjoying scenic views as it follows the Red River of the North through various parks. The quiet roads provide a relaxing atmosphere, though you should be mindful of potential winds that can add a slight challenge to your ride.

The Harwood loop is easily accessible, making it a convenient option for a touring bicycle outing. Its generally flat terrain means it's suitable for many riders, regardless of experience. You have the flexibility to choose from multiple variations of the loop, allowing you to tailor the distance to your preference. Consider riding the route clockwise or counter-clockwise; this can be particularly useful for adapting to wind direction on any given day.

This route stands out for its serene passage along the Red River of the North, providing a unique perspective of the landscape. The trail's design, with its quiet roads and flat profile, makes it a local favorite for those seeking a tranquil escape. It offers a pleasant way to explore the natural beauty and urban edges of Fargo, connecting you with the river's flow and surrounding green spaces.

Embark on a touring cycling journey through the classic Red River Valley landscape with the Fargo to Sabin loop. This route offers expansive views of agricultural land and open spaces as you pedal between Fargo, North Dakota, and Sabin, Minnesota. You will cover 38.4 miles (61.8 km) with a moderate difficulty, gaining 218 feet (66 metres) in elevation. Expect a pleasant ride on mostly flat terrain, taking about 3 hours and 39 minutes to complete.

The Fargo to Sabin loop is primarily paved, ensuring a smooth touring cycling experience for most of its length. However, be aware that some variations of this loop might include unpaved segments, so it is wise to be prepared for varied terrain. You can generally find parking at various trailheads located within the Fargo area, making access convenient. Plan your visit during daylight hours to fully enjoy the open scenery.

This touring cycling route is a quintessential Red River Valley experience, connecting you with the rural character of the region. As you ride, you will also traverse sections of the Blue Goose Trail and the Red River Trail, which are well-known paths in the area. The route highlights the characteristic flat terrain and agricultural beauty that defines this part of North Dakota and Minnesota.

The Missouri Valley Millennium Legacy Trail offers an easy touring bicycle ride, perfect for a relaxed outing. This paved path spans 4.7 miles (7.6 km) and involves a gentle 81 feet (25 metres) of elevation gain, making it a quick 26-minute journey. As you cycle, you will enjoy picturesque views of the Missouri River, bluffs, and prairie terrain, with the path winding through various parks that provide a mix of sun and shade. You can spot landmarks like the Missouri River Heritage Mural or Keelboat Park, which offer insights into the region's past. A "hilly section to the north" also provides some great scenic viewpoints along the way.

Planning your visit to the Missouri Valley Millennium Legacy Trail is straightforward, as it is easily accessible and well-maintained. This route is a great option for family-friendly cycling, offering amenities like playgrounds, picnic shelters, and benches along the way for your convenience. Parking is generally available at various access points along the trail in both Bismarck and Mandan, making it easy to start your ride. Consider visiting during pleasant weather to fully enjoy the outdoor experience.

This popular shared-use trail connects the cities of Bismarck and Mandan, providing a unique opportunity to explore the area's natural beauty and historical significance. The route highlights the region's connection to the Missouri River, bluffs, and prairie, reflecting its rich heritage. It is part of a broader effort to preserve and celebrate the area's past, offering both locals and visitors a chance to engage with the environment and history. The trail's design ensures a pleasant experience for all users, making it a notable feature of the local landscape.

Embark on a gentle touring bicycle ride around the Lake Metigoshe Bike Path Loop, an easy 8.0 miles (12.8 km) route that takes about 45 minutes to complete. You will experience the tranquil atmosphere of Lake Metigoshe State Park, cycling past clear water views and through unique woodlands. The path offers a pleasant, mostly flat journey with a modest 232 feet (71 metres) of elevation gain, making it perfect for a relaxed outing.

Before you head out, remember that the Lake Metigoshe State Park provides ample parking for visitors, making access straightforward. This multi-use trail is generally open and accessible, but it's always a good idea to check local conditions. This is especially true during shoulder seasons, as unexpected closures or weather impacts can sometimes affect the path.

As you pedal, keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife that calls this area home, including moose, white-tailed deer, and various bird species. The route winds through forests and grasslands, showcasing the natural beauty of the Turtle Mountains region. It's a wonderful way to connect with nature and enjoy the serene environment of the state park.

Embark on the Maah Daah Hey and Chimney Park Path Loop for an easy touring bicycle ride through the unique North Dakota Badlands. This 4.9-mile (7.8 km) route offers a pleasant experience, gaining 276 feet (84 metres) in elevation, and you can expect to complete it in about 37 minutes. As you cycle, you will enjoy panoramic views of rolling prairies and distinctive geological formations, so keep an eye out for local wildlife.

Before you head out, be aware that conditions can change with the weather; it is wise to check local forecasts, especially during wet seasons when clay sections might become slick. Parking is generally available near the starting point in Medora. While no specific permits are mentioned for this particular loop, always familiarize yourself with the regulations of Theodore Roosevelt National Park.

This route uniquely blends a segment of the famous Maah Daah Hey Trail with the local Chimney Park Bike Path, offering a taste of the region's dramatic landscape. The Badlands environment provides a striking backdrop, characterized by its rugged terrain and open vistas. It is an excellent way to experience the natural beauty and geological wonders of the area within Theodore Roosevelt National Park.