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4 Breathtaking Scenic Drives in North Dakota

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farm in North Dakota
North Dakota provides ample opportunities to reconnect with nature when you take a drive through the countryside
Photo: skeeze via Pixabay

Gain some peace of mind and fall in love with North Dakota all over again when you hit up one of these four scenic routes. Whether you prefer lakes and rivers or marshes and forests, you’re bound to discover a new favorite back road.


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Sakakawea Scenic Byway

The 23-mile Sakakawea Scenic Byway starts at Highway 200A and spans from Washburn to Stanton. You’ll glimpse tranquil views of the Missouri and Knife Rivers, as well as the surrounding river valley geography. This trail follows along the same route that Lewis and Clark took while traveling through the state, so there are quite a few historic detours you can take along the byway. Make sure to stop by Fort Mandan and Fort Clark State historic sites and learn more about the two explorers at the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center.

Enchanted Highway

Take the 31-mile trek from Gladstone to Regent known as the Enchanted Highway for a scenic drive that inspires your creativity. The route gets its nickname due to Gary Greff’s imaginative metal art series visible from Highway 94. Greff started the series back in the early 1990s, as an attempt to draw more tourists to Regent to help boost the town’s economic health and cultural vitality.

Lake Metigoshe State Park

This 17-mile path offers picturesque views of Lake Metigoshe set against the Turtle Mountains near the Canadian border. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the wetlands as well as the oak and aspen forests from the comfort of your car. You can also get out and take a hike or do some fishing if the desire strikes, so make sure to pack the appropriate outdoorsy equipment for these activities.

Arrowwood National Wildlife Refuge

Take the 28-mile path from Carrington to Buchanan to enjoy the eastern fringe of Arrowwood National Wildlife Refuge. Bring a pair of binoculars to increase your chance of seeing the birds and creatures that call these grasslands and marshes home. Curb your hunger at Casey’s General Store in Carrington or get out and snap some pictures of the refuge at one of the many stops along the route.

Planning a road trip later this year? Check out these helpful suggestions. And browse these tips for waking up early on the day of your excursion.


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