Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Time Needed: multi-day
Experience Type: national park, scenic views
Theodore Roosevelt National Park celebrates the 26th president’s legacy and the badlands’ striking landscapes. Enjoy scenic drives, wildlife viewing, historic sites, and dramatic vistas across the park’s North and South Units, capturing the pioneering spirit of the American frontier.
MUST-DO CHECKLIST
- Drive Scenic Loop Drive – In the South Unit, travel the 36-mile loop, stopping at pullouts and interpretive signs. Painted Canyon Visitor Center boasts rugged badlands landscapes.
- Go Wildlife Watching – Observe bison, elk, pronghorns, and mule deer in their natural habitats. Always maintain distance to respect wildlife and ensure a safe viewing experience.
- Visit Prairie Dog Town – Stop near Skyline Vista to see the park’s prairie dog town. Watch these social animals communicate with barks and yelps in their bustling colonies.
- Hike the Trails – Explore the Coal Vein Trail and Painted Canyon Nature Trail for dramatic overlooks, wind-sculpted canyons, and insights into the region’s early coal mining activities.
- Explore Medora – Visit the park’s gateway town for dining, historic sites, and theaters. In the evening, enjoy Medora Musical, a lively Broadway-style show celebrating western heritage.
Recommended Reading: 101 Travel Bits: Theodore Roosevelt National Park offers fun facts, stories, and lesser-known insights. Deepen your understanding of this scenic, wildlife-rich North Dakota park and its connection to Roosevelt’s conservation legacy.
Photo Credit: Daniel Erlandson/Pexels