Discover Theodore Roosevelt National Park - Badlands Majesty & Wild West Spirit

Day 1: Badlands Gateway & Scenic Majesty

• Morning (9:00 AM - 12:30 PM) Arrive in Medora, North Dakota, the charming gateway town to Theodore Roosevelt National Park’s South Unit. Check into your pre-booked lodging (e.g., Badlands Motel or Rough Riders Hotel, ~ $150-220/night). Begin your park adventure with a visit to the Painted Canyon Overlook & Nature Trail (just off I-94 Exit 32, before the Medora exit). This stunning vista offers your first breathtaking panoramic views of the badlands formations. Spend about 1 hour exploring the overlook and the short 0.5-mile nature trail. Afterward, proceed to the Theodore Roosevelt National Park South Unit entrance ($30 per vehicle for a 7-day pass).
• Afternoon (12:30 PM - 6:30 PM) Enjoy a picnic lunch (packed yourself to save ~$30-40) or grab a casual bite in Medora (e.g., Boots Bar & Grill, ~$20-30/person). Then, embark on the iconic 36-mile Scenic Loop Drive through the South Unit. Allow 3-4 hours for this drive, including stops. Your first major stop should be the Wind Canyon Trail (0.4-mile loop, 30-45 minutes), offering unique wind-sculpted formations. Continue to Boicourt Overlook for expansive views. Keep a keen eye out for wildlife, especially bison and wild horses, often seen grazing near the road or in the grasslands. Stop at several Prairie Dog Towns to watch these social creatures.
• Evening (6:30 PM onwards) As dusk approaches, wildlife activity increases. Drive back along the Scenic Loop to a favored spot, such as near the Peaceful Valley Ranch area or another Prairie Dog Town, for prime wildlife viewing and sunset photography. The badlands glow beautifully in the golden hour. For dinner, experience Medora’s offerings. Consider the historic Theodore’s Dining Room at Rough Riders Hotel (upscale American cuisine, ~ $40-60/person) or the more casual Little Missouri Saloon & Dining Room (hearty fare, ~ $25-40/person).

Day 2: South Unit Serenity & North Unit Journey

• Morning (7:30 AM - 12:00 PM) Start your day early to maximize wildlife viewing opportunities and beat the heat. Grab a quick breakfast at your hotel or a local cafe in Medora (~ $15-25/person). Head back into the South Unit for a moderate hike. We recommend the Petrified Forest Trail (South Section access). Drive west from Medora on the gravel East River Road, or access via the Scenic Loop to the trailheads. Hike a 3-mile loop to see unique petrified stumps and logs (allow 1.5-2 hours). Alternatively, for panoramic views, hike up Buck Hill (0.5-mile roundtrip, ~30 minutes for ascent/descent), providing a breathtaking 360-degree vista of the badlands. Check out of your Medora lodging.
• Afternoon (12:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Enjoy a packed lunch or a quick meal in Medora (~$20-30/person). Begin your scenic drive north to the Theodore Roosevelt National Park North Unit. The drive from Medora to the North Unit Visitor Center near Watford City is approximately 70 miles and takes about 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes via US-85 N. Upon arrival, check into your lodging in Watford City (e.g., Best Western Plus or Comfort Inn & Suites, ~$130-200/night). Then, commence your exploration of the North Unit’s Scenic Byway (14 miles one-way). Stop at the River Bend Overlook for a view of the Little Missouri River.
• Evening (5:00 PM onwards) Continue along the North Unit Scenic Byway, driving to the dramatic Oxbow Overlook. This iconic viewpoint offers sweeping vistas of the “Little Missouri River’s big bend” and the surrounding badlands. It’s an excellent spot for wildlife viewing, particularly bison and mule deer, which are commonly seen in this unit. Stay for sunset, as the light transforms the landscape. For dinner, explore Watford City’s options. Consider Badlands Grill for a classic American menu or Stone Fired Pizza for a more casual experience (~$25-45/person).

Day 3: North Unit Wilds & Departure

• Morning (7:30 AM - 12:30 PM) Begin your final day with an early start in the North Unit for the best chance of spotting wildlife, including bison, mule deer, and occasionally bighorn sheep. Grab breakfast at your hotel or a local Watford City cafe (~$15-25/person). Embark on a rewarding hike: the Caprock Coulee Trail (3.6-mile loop, moderate, allow 2-2.5 hours). This trail takes you through unique badlands terrain, offers incredible views of the Little Missouri River, and provides a good chance for wildlife encounters. Ensure you carry plenty of water.
• Afternoon (12:30 PM - 4:00 PM) After your hike, drive back along the Scenic Byway, stopping at any overlooks you missed or wish to revisit, such as the unique Cannonball Concretions. Take your final photographs and soak in the North Unit’s wild beauty. Enjoy a casual lunch in Watford City or pick up some provisions for a final picnic near the park (~$20-30/person). Begin your drive back towards your departure point (e.g., Bismarck, or towards I-94 East/West).
• Evening (4:00 PM onwards) Conclude your “Badlands Highlights & Wildlife Quest” as you travel home, filled with memories of North Dakota’s rugged beauty and abundant wildlife.

Day 1: Medora’s Gateway & Badlands Introduction

• Morning (10:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Arrive in Medora, North Dakota, the charming gateway town to Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Check into your pre-booked accommodation (e.g., Badlands Motel or Rough Riders Hotel, budget ~$180-250/night for two). Head straight to the Theodore Roosevelt National Park South Unit Visitor Center. Purchase your 7-day vehicle entrance pass ($30). Spend about 45 minutes exploring the exhibits and the historic Maltese Cross Cabin, Roosevelt’s first cabin in the badlands, located directly behind the visitor center. This provides an excellent historical context for your trip.
  • Cost: Park Pass $30/vehicle. Lodging costs vary.
  • Practical Tip: Grab a detailed park map and inquire about current trail conditions and any ranger-led programs.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:30 PM) Enjoy lunch in Medora (e.g., Medora Cafe for casual fare, ~$30-40 for two). Afterward, embark on the full 36-mile scenic loop drive through the South Unit. Allow 2-3 hours with stops. Pull off at various overlooks like Scoria Point and Boicourt Overlook for panoramic views of the Painted Canyon formations. Take a leisurely stroll on the Wind Canyon Trail (0.5-mile loop, easy, 30-45 minutes) for stunning views of the Little Missouri River and wildlife spotting. Keep an eye out for bison, wild horses, and prairie dogs.
  • Distance: 36-mile scenic drive. Wind Canyon Trail 0.5 miles.
  • Practical Tip: Carry water, wear sturdy shoes, and bring binoculars for wildlife viewing. Cell service can be spotty.
• Evening For dinner, experience a classic Medora meal. Consider the Pitchfork Steak Fondue (seasonal, reservations recommended, $35-40/person) for a unique western experience, or the Little Missouri Saloon & Dining Room for a more traditional sit-down meal ($60-80 for two). If you’re interested in local entertainment, the Medora Musical (seasonal, separate cost not included in budget) is a popular option; otherwise, enjoy a quiet evening stroll through historic Medora.

Day 2: Backcountry Vistas & Petrified Forest Hike

• Morning (8:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Start your day with breakfast at your lodging or a local cafe (e.g., Cowboy Cafe, ~$20-30 for two). Pack a substantial lunch and plenty of water before heading out. Drive to the Petrified Forest Trailhead (approximately 45 minutes from Medora, primarily on gravel roads; check conditions with a ranger). Embark on a challenging but rewarding hike through the North Loop of the Petrified Forest Trail (approx. 4 miles round trip, 3-4 hours). This trail offers a true backcountry feel, taking you through vast fields of petrified wood and unique badlands formations.
  • Distance: 4-mile loop.
  • Practical Tip: This trail is exposed and strenuous. Bring at least 3 liters of water per person, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), sturdy hiking boots, and snacks. Inform someone of your hiking plans due to the remote nature.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Enjoy your packed picnic lunch at a scenic overlook near the Petrified Forest area or upon returning to the paved section of the park (e.g., Cottonwood Campground picnic area, cost of packed lunch ~$20). After your hike, drive to Peaceful Valley Ranch, a historic ranch established in the 1880s. Explore the site and imagine life during Roosevelt’s time in the badlands. If time and energy permit, take a shorter, easier stroll on the Ridgeline Nature Trail (0.6-mile loop, 30-45 minutes) for different views of the Little Missouri River.
  • Cost: Packed lunch ~$20.
• Evening For a more casual evening, enjoy dinner at Badlands Pizza and Saloon (~$40-50 for two) in Medora. Afterward, take advantage of the park’s dark skies for stargazing. Find a pull-off along the scenic loop drive and marvel at the clarity of the Milky Way and constellations.

Day 3: North Unit’s Majestic Serenity

• Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Have an early breakfast in Medora. Pack a lunch and plenty of snacks/water for the day. Begin the drive to the North Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park, located near Watford City (approximately 1 hour 15 minutes, 70 miles from Medora). Upon arrival, drive the 14-mile scenic byway (one-way). Stop at iconic overlooks such as Oxbow Overlook, offering a dramatic view of the Little Missouri River’s hairpin bend, and River Bend Overlook. The North Unit provides a different perspective of the badlands, often feeling more rugged and less crowded.
  • Distance: 70 miles drive one-way to North Unit. 14-mile scenic drive one-way.
  • Practical Tip: Ensure your vehicle has a full tank of gas before leaving Medora or Watford City. Cell service is limited in the North Unit.
• Afternoon (12:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Enjoy your packed picnic lunch at a designated picnic area within the North Unit (e.g., Juniper Campground, cost of packed lunch ~$20). After lunch, embark on the Caprock Coulee Trail (3.7-mile loop, moderate, 2-3 hours). This trail offers a diverse experience, climbing through juniper forests, offering views into deep coulees, and traversing open prairie dog towns. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the North Unit’s unique ecosystem.
  • Distance: 3.7-mile loop.
  • Practical Tip: Carry plenty of water and wear layers as the weather can change quickly. Be aware of rattlesnakes, especially on sunny rocks.
• Evening Drive back to Medora (approx. 1 hour 15 minutes). For dinner, try Boots Bar & Grill for hearty American fare in a relaxed setting (~$50-70 for two). Reflect on the distinct beauty and tranquility of the North Unit compared to the South Unit.

Day 4: Roosevelt’s Elkhorn & Maah Daah Hey Immersion

• Morning (8:00 AM - 1:00 PM) After breakfast, prepare for an adventure to the remote Elkhorn Ranch Site, Theodore Roosevelt’s “peaceful haven.” (Approximately 1 hour drive from Medora, 35 miles one-way, mostly on gravel and unpaved roads). This site is unmaintained, with no standing structures, but interpretive signs tell the story of Roosevelt’s cherished ranch. Spend time absorbing the solitude and historical significance of the land that shaped his conservation ethic.
  • Distance: Approx. 35 miles one-way from Medora on gravel roads. Allow ample time for driving.
  • Practical Tip: Check road conditions with park rangers before heading out, especially after rain. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended. Download offline maps as GPS can be unreliable. Bring all necessary supplies (water, snacks, first-aid).
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Enjoy a substantial packed lunch at the Elkhorn Ranch site, soaking in the quiet surroundings (cost of packed lunch ~$20). After visiting Elkhorn, experience a true piece of North Dakota’s backcountry by exploring a section of the Maah Daah Hey Trail. You can access sections of this 144-mile non-motorized trail near the Elkhorn Ranch turnoff (e.g., Fryburg trailhead). Hike 3-5 miles in and out from a designated trailhead to experience its rugged beauty, rolling hills, and expansive views. This offers a deeper dive into the raw landscapes Roosevelt loved.
  • Distance: Hike 3-5 miles round trip (flexible).
  • Practical Tip: The Maah Daah Hey is a multi-use trail. Be aware of mountain bikers and equestrians. Always carry plenty of water and know your limits.
• Evening Return to Medora after a day of deep immersion in Roosevelt’s legacy. Treat yourselves to a celebratory dinner at the Rough Riders Hotel Dining Room for a slightly more upscale meal (~$70-100 for two). Share your favorite moments and reflections from the journey into Roosevelt’s backcountry.

Day 5: Final Vistas & Departure

• Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Enjoy a final breakfast in Medora (e.g., Medora Cafe, ~$20-30 for two). Before departing, revisit a favorite scenic spot in the South Unit or explore a new short trail. Consider the Coal Vein Trail (0.6-mile loop, easy, 30-45 minutes) for a unique geological insight into a naturally burning lignite coal vein. Or take one last walk on the Wind Canyon Trail to soak in the final views. Spend some time at the South Unit Visitor Center’s park store for souvenirs and gifts.
  • Practical Tip: Allow time to pack, check out of your accommodation, and make any last-minute purchases.
• Afternoon (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM) Have a final lunch in Medora before beginning your journey home or to your next destination (e.g., Hatlee & Brae, ~$30-40 for two). Depart from Theodore Roosevelt National Park with a rich understanding of its history, diverse landscapes, and the enduring legacy of its namesake president.
  • Cost: Final lunch ~$30-40.