North Dakota is filled with scenic landscapes and historic sites. From rolling hills and prairies to majestic mountains, North Dakota is unforgettable
Buffalo at Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota
Nestled in the Great Plains of the United States, North Dakota is home to a wide variety of landscapes, from rolling hills and prairies to majestic mountains. Winter brings with it a unique beauty that can be seen in the state’s many parks, forests, and other outdoor attractions. With its picturesque scenery and natural wonders, North Dakota is one of the best places to visit during the winter season.
Family, friends, and solo travelers alike can enjoy a variety of activities and sites during their stay. Most of the activities are located in the great outdoors. Keep a coat handy, as the temperatures vary but are usually cold during the winter. Explore North Dakota and the top places to visit this winter.
10/10 North Dakota Winter Show
The North Dakota Winter Show is an annual event that brings together thousands of people from across North Dakota to celebrate the crisp holiday season. This show includes performances by local musicians, a Winter Market where you can shop for unique gifts and souvenirs along with a variety of snow activities.
9/10 Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site
Located in northern North Dakota near the Montana border, the Fort Union Trading Post was once an important trading hub for the fur trade in the 19th century. Winter is a great time to visit this site as it offers many opportunities to explore the history and learn about life during the fur trade days. The site also features activities such as snowshoeing, sledding, and ice fishing. Winter is the perfect time to visit this historic site and explore its many attractions.
8/10 The Maah Daah Hey Trail
Hikers trail a path similar to The Maah Daah Hey Trail.
There’s no better time to explore the Maah Daah Hey Trail than in the winter. This unique and rugged trail in western North Dakota is popular among locals and tourists alike for its scenic views and vast coverage of land that are perfect for photos to share with the family. The Maah Daah Hey Trail stretches for more than 100 miles, offering breathtaking views of winter landscapes and plenty of opportunities for winter activities such as snowshoeing, skiing, and sledding.
7/10 The Lewis & Clark State Historic Site
The Lewis & Clark State Historic Site offers winter-themed activities, winter hikes, and winter history lessons about the early explorers of the area. Those looking for a historical experience that teaches everyone in the group would deeply enjoy this experience. This is also a great time to visit nearby Fort Mandan, which was used by the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1804 as a winter camp.
6/10 Prairie Village Museum
Located in Rugby, North Dakota, this outdoor museum is home to over 30 historic buildings that are open to visitors during the winter months. Visitors can explore pioneer life, Native American history, and more at this unique museum. Discover the Victorian Dress Museum, the Northern Lights Tower Sculpture, Ellery Park, and more. The culture of the heritage in Norway, Denmark, Finland and Iceland is represented throughout the Scandinavian Heritage Park.
5/10 Fort Abraham Lincoln
North Dakota is filled with remnants of military bases and forts reminiscent of history’s past. These locations make the perfect solo or group hikes, as they are fun and educational. Explore the historic Fort Abraham Lincoln military fort located near Mandan, North Dakota. Activities offered at this site include winter hikes, ice fishing, and cross-country skiing. The site also features winter-themed educational programs for children and adults alike.
4/10 The International Peace Garden
Located on the North Dakota/Manitoba border, the International Peace Garden is a beautiful destination to visit in winter. It features over 2,300 acres of flowers, trees, and shrubs that are planted in symmetrical designs. The gardens include fountains, sculptures, and even a chapel. The International Peace Garden offers a unique landscape and breathtaking views of snow-covered fields.
3/10 Lake Sakakawea
Winter brings many outdoor activities to North Dakota, including ice fishing on Lake Sakakawea. This man-made reservoir stretches for more than 150 miles and is one of the largest lakes in North Dakota. The crisp weather of winter makes it an ideal time to explore Lake Sakakawea, as it features many ice-fishing opportunities for anglers. Tourists who frequent the area are also familiar with Devil’s Lake. It is also an extremely popular lake destination with breathtaking views and scenery during the winter.
2/10 Winter Recreation On The Little Missouri River
A flowing lake amidst rolling hills and mountains.
Tourists and locals alike can take advantage of the many opportunities for snowmobiling and cross-country skiing along the Little Missouri River. Take a day off with nature with activities such as horse riding, hunting, camping, and more. Winter travelers should take a break at the North Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park along the banks to enjoy stunning views and abundant wildlife.
1/10 Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Winter is the perfect time of year to visit this national treasure located in western North Dakota. The park is home to some of the most scenic landscapes in the state, including badlands and rolling hills. Winter is a great time to explore the park as it offers snowshoeing and cross-country skiing opportunities. Winter wildlife can also be seen in abundance, including bison, mule deer, and coyote.
