Epic Adventures
The Dakota Prairie Grasslands offer many epic adventures for outdoor enthusiasts, providing ample opportunities for exploration and connection with nature. Visitors can enjoy the open prairies for stargazing and bird watching or explore the amazing trails that weave through unique, breathtaking landscapes.
Fritillary Prairie
Fritillary Prairie, also called Biesterfeld Meadow, is a rare remnant of the tallgrass prairie that once covered much of North America. It is home to diverse native grasses and wildflowers—including orchids, ferns, and prairie violets, which are vital for regal fritillary caterpillars.
Denbigh Experimental Forest
Established in 1931, Denbigh Experimental Forest showcases which tree species thrive in the region. Today, about 30 types of trees and shrubs—including Scots pine and Rocky Mountain juniper—fill the area. The forest also supports diverse wildlife and features a scenic three-mile hiking and biking trail through its historic arboretum.
Maah Daah Hey Trail
The 144-mile Maah Daah Hey Trail stretches from Burning Coal Vein Campground, 49 miles south of Medora, to CCC Campground, 16 miles south of Watford City. Winding through North Dakota’s badlands, the trail features rolling prairies, clay buttes, rugged canyons, and views of the Little Missouri River.
The North Country Trail
The North Country National Scenic Trail (NCNST) is the nation’s longest continuous footpath, stretching 4,800 miles across eight northern states from North Dakota’s Sheyenne National Grassland to Vermont’s Green Mountain National Forest. Popular for hiking and backpacking, the Sheyenne section lets visitors explore the river valley and spot water birds in nearby wetlands.
