The best cycling routes in North Dakota

Theodore Roosevelt National Park offers a truly distinctive touring cycling experience, winding through North Dakota's dramatic Badlands. You'll navigate roads that follow the natural contours of the landscape, revealing colorful sandstone pillars, hoodoos, and mesas. Expect panoramic views of the Little Missouri River Valley and opportunities to spot bison and wild horses, making for a constantly changing visual journey.

This difficult 34.8-mile (56.0 km) route involves a substantial 2482 feet (756 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 36 minutes to complete. Cyclists must stay on paved or dirt roads, as off-road cycling is prohibited, and be prepared to share the narrow roadways with vehicles, including RVs. It's a challenging ride best suited for experienced cyclists who are comfortable with significant climbs and descents.

The park's unique history as a memorial to Theodore Roosevelt, a passionate conservationist, adds to its significance. The dramatic landscapes and diverse ecosystems, from rolling prairie to red-baked buttes, provide a memorable backdrop for your ride. Just remember that bicycles are not allowed on sections of the Maah Daah Hey Trail within the park boundaries.

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.

The Scenic Drive to Oxbow Overlook offers a truly immersive touring cycling experience through the rugged beauty of Theodore Roosevelt National Park's North Unit. You'll wind through national park grasslands and past cottonwood trees, with the terrain gradually shifting from the badlands floor to higher elevations that reveal expansive views of colorful rock formations and impressive buttes. The route culminates at the stunning Oxbow Overlook, providing a memorable vista of the Little Missouri River snaking through the landscape.

This challenging 27.1-mile (43.6 km) out-and-back route involves a significant 1887 feet (575 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 48 minutes to complete. Cyclists should be prepared for a demanding ride, as good fitness is required for the sustained climbs. You'll share the paved road with vehicles, so riding single-file and wearing bright clothing is advised. For optimal wildlife viewing and cooler temperatures, plan your ride for the early morning or late afternoon.

What makes this route particularly special is the opportunity for wildlife viewing; bison are frequently seen along the drive, and you might spot mule deer or even bighorn sheep on the cliff edges. The relative solitude of the North Unit enhances the feeling of being truly out in nature, making it a rewarding choice for advanced touring cycling. Remember to maintain a safe distance from all wildlife, especially bison, to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

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.

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.

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.

The Maah Daah Hey and Chimney Park Path Loop offers a delightful, easy touring cycling experience through the unique North Dakota Badlands. You'll pedal along the paved Chimney Park Bike Path, soaking in views of striking geological formations and vast open plains that characterize this dramatic landscape. It's a perfect way to get a taste of the region's beauty without the commitment of the much longer, rugged Maah Daah Hey singletrack.

This 4.9-mile (7.8 km) loop, with a gentle 276 feet (84 metres) of elevation gain, is rated easy and takes about 37 minutes to complete. It's an ideal option for families or anyone looking for a relaxed ride near Medora, North Dakota. Parking is readily available, and the paved surface means you can enjoy this route with almost any touring bicycle.

While the main Maah Daah Hey Trail is an IMBA "EPIC" singletrack, this loop provides a much mellower alternative, showcasing the badlands' scenery in an accessible format. The area is known for its diverse wildlife, including bison and wild horses, so keep an eye out for potential sightings. This route is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the region in a short, enjoyable outing.