Overview
Theodore Roosevelt National Park, located in the rugged badlands of western North Dakota, offers visitors an unforgettable experience of breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich history. Named in honor of the 26th President of the United States, Theodore Roosevelt, the park serves as a testament to his lasting legacy in American conservation. Covering over 70,000 acres, the park is divided into three units: the North Unit, the South Unit, and the Elkhorn Ranch Unit, each offering unique opportunities for exploration and adventure.
Theodore Roosevelt National Park Location
Theodore Roosevelt National Park is situated in the western part of North Dakota, approximately 130 miles west of the state capital, Bismarck. The park is divided into three units. The North Unit can be accessed via US Highway 85, while the South Unit is located near the town of Medora, just off Interstate 94. The remote Elkhorn Ranch Unit can be reached by a combination of gravel roads and is situated between the North and South Units.
Theodore Roosevelt National Park Things to Do
The park offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages and interests, including:
Hiking
With over 100 miles of hiking trails, there’s something for everyone, from short nature walks to challenging backcountry adventures. Some popular trails include the Wind Canyon Trail in the South Unit, offering stunning views of the Little Missouri River, and the Caprock Coulee Trail in the North Unit, showcasing the park’s unique geological features.
Wildlife Viewing
Home to a diverse array of wildlife, the park provides ample opportunities for observing bison, elk, prairie dogs, bighorn sheep, and wild horses, among others. The park’s three units offer different habitats, increasing the chances of spotting a variety of species during your visit.
Scenic Drives
Take in the park’s spectacular scenery from the comfort of your vehicle by traversing the 36-mile scenic loop drive in the South Unit or the 14-mile scenic drive in the North Unit. Both drives offer numerous overlooks and pullouts, allowing you to appreciate the park’s breathtaking vistas and unique geological formations.
Horseback Riding
Experience the park as Theodore Roosevelt did by exploring its rugged terrain on horseback. Bring your own horse or book a guided trail ride with a local outfitter to discover the park’s beauty from a unique perspective.
Theodore Roosevelt National Park Itineraries
Whether you have a day or a week to explore, there are plenty of ways to make the most of your time in Theodore Roosevelt National Park:
One-Day Itinerary
If you only have one day, focus on the South Unit, which offers the most accessible attractions. Begin with a stop at the visitor center to learn about the park’s history, wildlife, and geology. Next, embark on the scenic loop drive, making sure to stop at key overlooks and trailheads along the way. For a short hike, consider the Wind Canyon Trail or the Coal Vein Trail.
Two-Day Itinerary
On your second day, explore the North Unit by starting at the visitor center before setting out on the scenic drive. Hike the Caprock Coulee Trail and keep an eye out for bison and other wildlife. If time allows, visit the Oxbow Overlook for panoramic views of the badlands and the Little Missouri River.
Three-Day Itinerary
With three days, you can delve deeper into the park’s backcountry. Consider a day hike in the South Unit’s Petrified Forest or embark on a multi-day backpacking adventure in the North Unit’s Achenbach Trail. Obtain a backcountry permit from the visitor center before setting out on any overnight excursions.
Elkhorn Ranch Unit
For those interested in experiencing the park’s remote and historic Elkhorn Ranch Unit, set aside at least one day to explore this area. Accessible by gravel roads, the site of Theodore Roosevelt’s former ranch offers a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into the past.
Best Season to Visit Theodore Roosevelt National Park
The park is open year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your interests and preferences:
Spring and Fall
Visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall allows you to avoid the summer crowds and enjoy mild temperatures, perfect for hiking and wildlife viewing. In the spring, you’ll be treated to an array of wildflowers, while the fall months offer vibrant foliage.
Summer
Summer is the most popular time to visit, with warm temperatures and longer days, ideal for exploring the park’s many trails and activities. However, be prepared for potential thunderstorms and increased visitor traffic.
Winter
For a serene and peaceful experience, visit during the winter months. While some facilities and roads may be closed due to snow, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the park’s snow-covered landscapes on cross-country skis or snowshoes.
Theodore Roosevelt National Park Weather
The park experiences a range of weather conditions throughout the year. Summers can be hot, with temperatures reaching the 90s°F, while winters can be quite cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing. Spring and fall offer more moderate temperatures, typically ranging between 50 and 70°F. Be prepared for sudden weather changes, particularly in the spring and summer, when thunderstorms are common.
Theodore Roosevelt National Park Hotels and Camping
There are several lodging and camping options available both within and near the park:
Hotels
While there are no hotels within the park itself, the nearby town of Medora offers a variety of accommodations, including hotels, motels, and bed and breakfasts. For those visiting the North Unit, the towns of Watford City and Williston provide lodging options.
Camping
The park offers two developed campgrounds: Cottonwood Campground in the South Unit and Juniper Campground in the North Unit. Both campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis and provide potable water, restrooms, and picnic tables. Backcountry camping is also available with a permit, obtained at the visitor center.
Theodore Roosevelt National Park Restaurants
There are no restaurants within the park, but the town of Medora offers a range of dining options, from casual cafes to fine dining establishments. For a unique dining experience, consider attending the famous Medora Musical and Pitchfork Steak Fondue, a seasonal dinner theater event that combines delicious food with lively entertainment.
Theodore Roosevelt National Park Wildlife and Plants
The park is home to a diverse array of plant and animal species. In addition to the charismatic megafauna like bison, elk, prairie dogs, bighorn sheep, and wild horses, you may also spot coyotes, white-tailed deer, and various species of birds, such as golden eagles, wild turkeys, and prairie falcons. The park’s plant life is equally diverse, with over 400 plant species, including sagebrush, juniper, cottonwood, and various wildflowers that bloom throughout the spring and summer months.
Theodore Roosevelt National Park History
The history of Theodore Roosevelt National Park is deeply intertwined with the life of the 26th President of the United States, who first visited the region in 1883 to hunt bison. Roosevelt fell in love with the badlands and established two ranches in the area, the Maltese Cross Ranch and the Elkhorn Ranch. It was here that he developed his deep appreciation for the natural world and laid the foundation for his future role as a conservationist.
Prior to the arrival of European settlers, the area that now encompasses the park was home to various indigenous peoples, including the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara, who relied on the land for sustenance and resources. The park also contains remnants of early Euro-American settlers, such as the Long X Cattle Trail and the remains of historic ranches.
The park was established as the Theodore Roosevelt National Memorial Park in 1947 and later redesignated as a national park in 1978, in recognition of Roosevelt’s lasting impact on American conservation and the protection of public lands.
Theodore Roosevelt National Park Geology
The badlands of Theodore Roosevelt National Park offer a fascinating glimpse into the area’s geological past. Formed over millions of years, the park’s unique topography is the result of erosion, which has sculpted the landscape into a complex network of buttes, canyons, and plateaus. The park’s colorful layers of rock reveal a diverse geological history, including ancient sea beds, volcanic ash deposits, and river channels, which tell the story of the region’s ever-changing environment.
The park is also home to deposits of petrified wood, the remnants of ancient forests that once covered the area. A hike through the Petrified Forest in the South Unit will take you back in time, as you walk among the fossilized remains of trees that stood over 55 million years ago.
Conclusion
Theodore Roosevelt National Park offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to explore the rugged beauty of the North Dakota badlands, while learning about the rich history and legacy of the park’s namesake, Theodore Roosevelt. Whether you’re drawn to the park’s abundant wildlife, scenic vistas, or the chance to retrace the footsteps of one of America’s greatest conservationists, a visit to this exceptional national park is sure to leave a lasting impression.
