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Best medium hikes in North Dakota
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Best medium hikes in North Dakota

Ready for a bit more of a challenge? These medium-difficulty hikes offer the perfect balance between effort and reward.

Here are some great hikes to explore in North Dakota.

Most popular hikes

1

Medium

North Country Trail

Mercer County, North Dakota · star 4.5 (107) · 7517.4 km · Est. 382 days

2

Medium

Caprock Coulee Loop Trail

McKenzie County, North Dakota · star 4.6 (73) · 6.5 km · Est. 1 hrs 36 min

3

Medium

Ridgeline Trail

Billings County, North Dakota · star 4.5 (69) · 982 m · Est. 16 min

4

Medium

Wind Canyon Trail

Billings County, North Dakota · star 4.5 (75) · 767 m · Est. 12 min

5

Medium

Painted Canyon Nature Trail

Billings County, North Dakota · star 4.5 (77) · 1.5 km · Est. 27 min

6

Medium

Mike Auney Trail

Billings County, North Dakota · star 4.6 (72) · 8.1 km · Est. 2 hrs 3 min

7

Medium

Buck Hill

Billings County, North Dakota · star 4.5 (370) · 638 m · Est. 9 min

8

Medium

Caprock Coulee and North Achenbach Loop Trail

McKenzie County, North Dakota · star 4.5 (385) · 6.5 km · Est. 1 hrs 36 min

9

Medium

Cottonwood Nature Loop Trail

Ward County, North Dakota · star 4.4 (234) · 1.7 km · Est. 27 min

10

Medium

Butte Saint Paul Loop

Bottineau County, North Dakota · star 4.5 (130) · 1.1 km · Est. 20 min

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Reviews for medium hikes in North Dakota

Greg O鈥橫alley avatar

North Country Trail

Greg O鈥橫alley 路 reviewed over 5 years ago

star star star star star

I鈥檝e only done some section hikes of the NCT. It still has a long way to go as compared big 3 to remove some road sections. A thru-hike is very difficult due to the direction and length of the trail. Going west to east means you will have to deal with a lot of cold weather/ice at some stage unlike the other trails where you can start in the south. Still, it has a lot to offer a hiker who wants something different.

Ina Heaney avatar

Caprock Coulee Loop Trail

OutriderMapmaster67 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Fr. Paulene Kreiger avatar

Ridgeline Trail

TrailLedgehopper58 路 reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Tracie Ernser avatar

Wind Canyon Trail

PeakviewDreamer58 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Orval Ferry avatar

Painted Canyon Nature Trail

MeadowWoodsrider28 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes in North Dakota

What is the climate like for hiking in North Dakota?

North Dakota experiences a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Winter hikes can be challenging due to icy conditions and sub-zero temperatures. Spring brings a warmer climate, but trails can be muddy from melting snow, while summer can see temperatures above 30掳C (86掳F), which may lead to heat-related complications.
Fall is often considered the best season for hiking in North Dakota due to moderate temperatures and the spectacular display of changing foliage. However, hikers should be prepared for unpredictable weather, as storms can occur.
The hiking season typically runs from late April through October, with conditions best in late spring and fall. Always check weather forecasts and trail conditions prior to embarking on a hike. The North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department's website (https://www.parkrec.nd.gov/) is a helpful resource for up-to-date information.

Do I need a permit to hike in North Dakota?

In North Dakota, many hiking trails are accessible without permits. However, for certain state and national parks, an entrance fee might be required. Information on fees and permits can be obtained from the North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department (https://www.parkrec.nd.gov/).

Is wild camping allowed in North Dakota?

Wild camping in North Dakota is typically permitted on national forest lands, but not in state parks. Rules vary, so check specific regulations for each area. Campfires may be restricted. For more information, consult the U.S. Forest Service (https://www.fs.usda.gov/).

Are there mountain rescue services in North Dakota?

In North Dakota, in case of an emergency while hiking, dial 911. The state's Search and Rescue operations involve local law enforcement and volunteer organizations. For safety information, visit the North Dakota Parks and Recreation website (https://www.parkrec.nd.gov/).

Are there dangerous plants in North Dakota?

North Dakota's landscapes are adorned with diverse flora, including prairie grasses, cottonwood trees, and wildflowers such as the prairie rose. Hikers may encounter these on trails, especially in areas like the Theodore Roosevelt National Park. For more information, consult the North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department (https://www.parkrec.nd.gov/).

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in North Dakota?

North Dakota's wildlife includes bison, deer, pronghorn, and coyotes. Insects like ticks and mosquitoes may be prevalent in warmer months. Always maintain a respectful distance from animals and consider insect repellent. More information is available at the North Dakota Game and Fish Department (https://gf.nd.gov/).

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