The best walks and hikes in McKenzie County
5.0
(5)
83
hikers
12
hikes
Hiking in McKenzie County is characterized by the rugged badlands terrain of western North Dakota. The landscape features eroded sedimentary soils, creating layered hills, steep ravines, and expansive grasslands. Most of the notable hiking trails are found within the North Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park and the surrounding Little Missouri National Grassland.
Best hiking trails in McKenzie County
- The most popular hiking route is Caprock Coulee Trail Loop — Theodore Roosevelt National Park, a 4.2 mile (6.8 km)…
Last updated: May 12, 2026
1.55km
00:24
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(5)
53
hikers
6.83km
01:54
130m
120m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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21
hikers
4.06km
01:10
100m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
hikers
3.05km
00:47
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
30.1km
08:26
580m
580m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
17.9km
04:48
220m
220m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
17.8km
04:51
260m
260m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
16.5km
04:32
260m
260m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
1.58km
00:25
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
14.5km
03:51
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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Other adventures in McKenzie County
Tips from the Community
China Wall is a striking geologic feature made up of multi-colored layers that is a sight to behold on its own. However, if you venture to the top of the wall you will be treated to sweeping views across the North Dakota Badlands.
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All told, the Maah Daah Hey Trail runs for 144 miles through the badlands of North Dakota. It's open to all non-motorized uses, including running, hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking — except for when it passes through Theodore Roosevelt National Park. For that stretch, mountain biking is not allowed.
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This portion of the Maah Daah Hey Trail passes through Theodore Roosevelt National Park. While in the park, mountain biking is not allowed — so you'll only be sharing the trail with hikers, runners, and horseback riders. Along the way you can take in stellar views over the dramatic canyons of the Badlands, and there's lot of potential for wildlife sightings too. Make sure to give wildlife — especially big wildlife like bison — plenty of space.
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This nature trail (part of the overall Caprock Coulee loop) doesn't have much elevation gain, so it makes a great warm-up or a short run in and of itself. It's very popular with hikers, though, so your best chance of an uninterrupted run is getting out here early or late, or maybe during the week. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including bison, which are fast and dangerous — you don't want to end up running sprints with one of those behind you.
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There's a prairie dog town right about here, but the "town" is actually a series of underground tunnels — so you're best off watching for the prairie dogs themselves, which look much like fat little squirrels with short, stubby tails. Often, the easiest way to spot them is by watching for movement when they dash for the cover of one of their many burrow entrances, or listen for their chirping alarm calls. You might see lots of other wildlife here too, drawn by the prairie dogs.
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China Wall is a sandy, striped mesa of compacted sand that you can climb to the top of for views of the surrounding badlands.
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There are two trailheads for Bennet Trail. This one is Bennet Campground. Bennet Campground has a hand pump spigot with potable water during the summer months. Vault toilets are also open for public use in the summer months. Bennet Trail starts off by crossing Bennet Creek, which can occasionally be high and somewhat difficult to cross. The trail travels through the North Dakota Badlands and offers views of unique geological features. There are small sections of sharp inclines with immediate declines and the trail has little available shade. The trail can be very muddy after rain.
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The Little Missouri River provides a contrast in views from the badlands that surround it in Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Lush greenery can be found around the water. Along the Little Missouri Nature Trail, visitors can find signage that educates about the ecosystems found in the area and enjoy the flowing water.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in McKenzie County?
Yes, the region offers several accessible trails perfect for families. The Little Missouri River Nature Trail loop is an excellent choice; it's a short, flat walk of about one mile that provides a great introduction to the area's riverside environment without any strenuous climbs.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails?
In Theodore Roosevelt National Park, pets are generally not permitted on hiking trails to protect wildlife. For hiking with your dog, consider trails in the Little Missouri National Grassland, which often have more lenient rules. The Bennet Trail to China Wall is a great option located within the grassland.
What is the best time of year to hike in McKenzie County?
The best seasons for hiking are late spring, summer, and early fall. During these months, the weather is generally favorable and the trails are most accessible. Summer can be hot and exposed, so be sure to carry plenty of water. Always check local weather conditions before you set out, as the badlands climate can change quickly.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced backpackers?
Absolutely. For a true backcountry challenge, the Achenbach Loop Trail is a strenuous, long-distance hike that offers a deep immersion into the rugged wilderness of the park. It's a demanding route that requires careful planning and navigation.
What kind of wildlife might I see while hiking?
The North Dakota Badlands are rich with wildlife. Keep an eye out for bison, wild horses, mule deer, and pronghorn. You'll also find prairie dog towns, which are fascinating to observe. Birdwatchers may spot golden eagles and other prairie birds. Remember to always view wildlife from a safe and respectful distance.
Are there any good trails for seeing prairie dogs?
Yes, seeing a prairie dog town is a classic badlands experience. The Prairie dog town via Buckhorn Trail is a short, easy hike specifically leading to one of these active colonies within Theodore Roosevelt National Park.
Where can I find the best views with minimal hiking?
For spectacular views without a long trek, head to the Oxbow Overlook and Sperati Point. This easy trail leads to some of the most photographed vistas in the North Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park, showcasing the dramatic bends of the Little Missouri River.
What are the hiking options on the Maah Daah Hey Trail in this area?
A significant portion of the legendary Maah Daah Hey Trail runs through the region. You can experience a great section of it on the Maah Daah Hey Trail loop from Southeast Access Road. This moderate loop gives you a fantastic taste of this famous trail's character and scenery.
Are there any difficult, high-elevation trails?
Yes, for a strenuous climb with rewarding views, consider the Summit Overlook Trail. This is a difficult hike that involves significant elevation gain, taking you to a high vantage point over the surrounding badlands terrain.
What do other hikers think of the trails in McKenzie County?
The trails in McKenzie County are very highly regarded by the komoot community, earning an average rating of 5.0 stars. Hikers frequently praise the stunning badlands scenery, the opportunities for wildlife viewing, and the sense of solitude on the trails.
Where can I find information about trail conditions or park alerts?
For the most current information on trail conditions, closures, or safety alerts within Theodore Roosevelt National Park, it is always best to check the official National Park Service website or stop by the North Unit Visitor Center upon arrival.
Is there an entrance fee for hiking in the area?
An entrance fee is required to enter Theodore Roosevelt National Park, where many of the most popular trails are located. Hiking in the surrounding Little Missouri National Grassland is generally free, but access may be more remote. Check the park's official website for current fee information.
Most popular routes in McKenzie County
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