One of the least visited states in the US, North Dakota is very much a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered. Mostly known for its wild, desolate landscapes, and outstanding outdoor activities, it has some great cities and towns for you to check out and also boasts a proud Native American heritage.
Located right in the north central region of the country, North Dakota lies in the Upper Midwest and is surrounded by Montana, South Dakota, and Minnesota with Canada lying to the north. Also part of the Great Plains, it is only very sparsely populated with most of its territory consisting of endless farms, fields, and ranches with some bleak yet beautiful badlands also being on show.
Thanks to all its lovely landscapes, scenery, and nature, most visitors come to enjoy some excellent hiking, horseback riding, and camping amidst its great outdoors. The most popular places to visit are the two scenic sections of the Theodore Roosevelt National Park which are connected by the superb Maah Daah Hey Trail. Asides from taking in the stunning rock formations of the badlands, you can also see bison, elk and antelope in the park with cross-country skiing to be enjoyed in the winter.
While most people simply use its secluded cities as gateways to the nearby wildlife and wilderness, many of them are surprisingly pleasant places to spend some time. Its capital Bismarck for instance has interesting historic sites relating to the famous Battle of the Little Bighorn and offers up lots of fun watersports along the Missouri River. Fargo, its largest city, also has some fine museums and theaters to stop by while Devil’s Lake and its 375 miles of shoreline is the perfect spot to swim, fish, and sail about.
Besides the numerous historic landmarks, cultural centers, and sacred sites that can be found dotted about, regular powwows, festivals, and community events ensure North Dakota’s Native American heritage still plays a prominent role in state life. To learn all about the Northern Plains tribes, make sure to visit the Knife River Indian Villages National Historical Site for its artifacts and artworks.
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