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A trail with the best view of the Little Missouri River Valley in the park.


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Map Key

0.5

Miles

0.7

KM

Loop

2,387' 727 m

High

2,331' 710 m

Low

59' 18 m

Up

49' 15 m

Down

5%

Avg Grade (3°)

12%

Max Grade (7°)

Dogs No Dogs

Features Birding · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Family Friendly This short, relatively flat trail offers great views of the river.

Pets in the park must be restrained at all times, and are not permitted in park buildings, on trails, or in the backcountry. Be aware that dogs can agitate bison and other animals, creating a dangerous situation.

Description

Signs along the Scenic Loop Drive will point you in the direction of this trail, which has a dedicated parking lot. Heading out a short ways on the trail will bring you to spectacular views of the Little Missouri River Valley. This is the most photographed spot in the park and would be a fantastic place to visit at sunset or after a thunderstorm. You may see wild horses or bison crossing the river below, as well as birds and wildflowers.

Flora & Fauna

Bison, wild horses, antelope, native grasses and flowers.

Contacts

Land Manager: NPS - Theodore Roosevelt

Shared By:

Karen Ryberg

Trail Ratings

  4.6 from 18 votes

#1

in South Unit

#327

Overall
  4.6 from 18 votes
5 Star
72%
4 Star
17%
3 Star
11%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Trail Rankings

#1

in South Unit

#1

in North Dakota

#327

Overall
11 Views Last Month
3,203 Since Sep 9, 2015
Easy/Intermediate Easy/Intermediate

13%
33%
53%
0%
0%
0%

Photos

The sun sets over the Wind Canyon Trail as a distant rain shower adds to the drama. Photo credit: NPS/Dave Bruner.
May 25, 2017 near Medora, ND
Little Missouri River in the South Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Apr 24, 2016 near Medora, ND
View of the Little Missouri River from the Wind Canyon Trail.
Aug 29, 2023 near Medora, ND
Sunset is great on the Wind Canyon Trail.
Aug 29, 2023 near Medora, ND
View of the Little Missouri River flowing north through the South Unit of the Theodore Roosevelt National Park.
Apr 24, 2016 near Medora, ND
Long shadows fall over the terrain near the Wind Canyon Overlook. Photo credit: NPS/Kim Wehner.
May 25, 2017 near Medora, ND

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