North Dakota Travel Guide

North Dakota is located in the north of the United States, between Canada and South Dakota. The landscape is mostly dominated by the northern plains, the badlands in the south and the Missouri river running right through the heart of the state.

The quiet natural beauty of the State is sure to leave a lasting impression on you. "I never would have been President if it had not been for my experiences in North Dakota," Theodore Roosevelt once remarked. Roosevelt first came to the badlands in September 1883 on a hunting trip. While here he became interested in the cattle business and invested in the Maltese Cross Ranch. He returned the next year and established the Elkhorn Ranch. This ranch later became part of Roosevelt National Park.

In Central North Dakota, be sure to stop in Bismarck, the state capital and visit the North Dakota Heritage Center. Another must see is Devils Lake - the largest natural lake in North Dakota encompassing over 122,000 acres that has more than 375 miles of shoreline providing outstanding fishing and recreational opportunities.

Fargo and Grand Forks are set in the scenic Red River Valley. They are nice to visit and good bases for exploring the region. In West North Dakota, stop and see Lewis and Clark State Park outside of Williston or drive down to the historic frontier town of Medora and visit the Mansion of the Marquis de Mores. Be sure to see the Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site just outside of Stanton.

A visit to the State Capital grounds in Bismarck is well worth it.