The best cycling routes in Theodore Roosevelt National Park

There are 8 touring cycling routes available in Theodore Roosevelt National Park. These routes range in difficulty from easy to difficult, offering options for various skill levels.

Cyclists will experience a diverse landscape characterized by deeply eroded badlands, sharp ridges, and vibrant sedimentary rock layers. The routes often follow the contours of these badlands, transitioning from rolling prairie to dramatic red-baked buttes. The Little Missouri River also flows through the park, contributing to the unique geological formations.

Yes, there is one easy touring cycling route. The Maah Daah Hey and Chimney Park Path Loop is a 4.8-mile trail that leads through varied park terrain and is often completed in about 37 minutes, making it a good option for a less strenuous ride.

Theodore Roosevelt National Park is home to a wide array of Great Plains wildlife. You might frequently observe bison, wild horses, prairie dogs, mule deer, and various bird species such as golden eagles. Prairie dog towns are particularly notable and can often be found directly along the scenic roads. Remember to maintain a distance of at least 25 yards from all animals.

Yes, the park offers several breathtaking panoramic views. Overlooks like Oxbow Overlook, River Bend Overlook, Boicourt Overlook, and Wind Canyon Overlook provide stunning vistas of the Little Missouri River Valley and the surrounding badlands. The Painted Canyon Overlook is also a popular spot for its dramatic views.

While the park is generally pet-friendly, dogs are typically allowed on paved roads and in developed areas like campgrounds and picnic sites, but not on unpaved trails or in the backcountry. Always keep your dog on a leash no longer than 6 feet. It's best to check the official National Park Service website for the most current pet regulations before your visit.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, routes like Theodore Roosevelt National Park (34.8 miles with significant elevation gain) or Badlands loop — Gravel (31.8 miles) offer demanding rides through the park's rugged terrain. These routes feature considerable elevation changes and provide extensive views of the badlands.

Public transportation options directly into Theodore Roosevelt National Park are limited. Most visitors access the park and its cycling routes by private vehicle. The South Unit is located near Medora, and the North Unit is accessible via US Highway 85. You will need to arrange your own transport to the park entrances.

Generally, a park entrance fee is required to access Theodore Roosevelt National Park, which covers activities like cycling on designated roads. Individual permits specifically for biking are not typically required for standard touring cycling on park roads. However, always check the official National Park Service website for the most up-to-date regulations and fee information.

Yes, the park offers circular routes. For instance, the 36-mile Scenic Loop Drive in the South Unit is a popular paved road that provides a challenging circular route with outstanding views. The Theodore Roosevelt National Park route on komoot also follows a circular path, offering a comprehensive experience of the badlands.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the immersive natural experiences, the constantly changing visual panorama of the badlands, and the frequent opportunities for wildlife observation along the routes.

Parking is available at various points within the park units. For the South Unit, you can find parking near the Visitor Center in Medora, and at trailheads or overlooks along the Scenic Loop Drive. In the North Unit, parking is available at the Visitor Center and along the scenic drive at designated pull-offs and overlooks. Always use official parking areas.

The park preserves Theodore Roosevelt's cherished time in the North Dakota Badlands. You can visit the Maltese Cross Cabin at the South Unit Visitor Center. While the remote Elkhorn Ranch site is not directly on a cycling route, its historical significance is central to the park's story. The park itself is a living monument to his conservation efforts.