The best MTB trails around Medora
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Mountain biking around Medora offers routes through the unique badlands landscape of North Dakota. The region is characterized by rugged terrain, buttes, and the Little Missouri River valley, providing varied conditions for mountain bikers. Trails often navigate open plains, riverine areas, and formations of exposed rock. This environment presents a mix of elevation changes and natural features suitable for different skill levels.
Best mountain bike trails around Medora
- The most popular mountain bike trail is Maah Daah Hey Trail: Medora…
Last updated: June 24, 2026
2
riders
20.9km
01:40
270m
270m
An easy 13.0-mile mountain biking loop through the rugged Badlands of North Dakota, offering spectacular views and unique geological formati
24.8km
02:11
240m
240m
Explore the moderate 15.4-mile Upper & Lower Talkington Trail loop in Theodore Roosevelt National Park, offering scenic badlands views and w
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18.6km
01:34
150m
160m
Mountain bike the easy 11.5-mile Lower Paddock Creek Trail & Jones Creek Trail loop in Theodore Roosevelt National Park, enjoying badlands v
23.8km
02:12
310m
310m
Mountain bike the Petrified Forest Loop & Maah Daah Hey Trail in Theodore Roosevelt National Park, a moderate 14.8-mile route.
7
riders
61.8km
05:14
690m
690m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Cottonwood Campground is a fantastic spot, with shaded sites beneath mature cottonwoods and sweeping views of the surrounding badlands near the South Unit entrance of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. It offers 76 sites—some reservable, others first-come, first-served—with flush toilets, potable water (seasonal), and a group site. During peak season (May 1–Sept 30), the nightly rate is $20; in the off-season (Oct 1–Apr 30), first-come, first-served sites are available for $10, making it a scenic and affordable overnight for Maah Daah Hey Trail hikers looking to regroup or explore nearby park highlights. **You can reserve a spot here: https://www.nps.gov/thro/planyourvisit/cottonwood-campground.htm, which also lists site availability and additional fee details.
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This junction marks the starting point of a short trail that leads into Medora, a tiny but iconic town nestled in the Badlands, and is the gateway to the South Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Founded in 1883 by French nobleman Marquis de Mores and named after his wife, Medora blends Old West charm with outdoor adventure, history, and culture. Today, it’s best known for the Medora Musical, pitchfork steak dinners, and its deep ties to Theodore Roosevelt’s legacy.
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From here you can take a short detour from the Maah Daah Hey Trail through a section of petrified forest. It only adds a short distance and loops back around to the short trail after a short meander.
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From here you can take a short detour into Medora, North Dakota, the only town of any size you'll find along the trail. Whether you're running short on supplies or just want a nice cooked meal you can find it here. Also, if you are having any trouble with your bike Dakota Cyclery has everything you need from advice, to components, to maps, and shuttle service for the Maah Daah Hey Trail.
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Buffalo Gap Trail is a 19-mile trail that runs through the hills and grasslands of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. It was developed as a mountain bike trail, but is popular with trail runners and hikers as well.
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The Jones Creek Trail is a great trail to choose to see the beautiful hills and grassland of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. There is not much elevation change, so it is not a very challenging path.
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The Upper Talkington Trail is a fairly difficult trail that runs through Theodore Roosevelt National Park and gives you great views of the iconic landscape in this area. It is a popular trail for biking, hiking and bird watching, so make sure you keep an eye out for other users.
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Great, quiet path out of Medora. It is 2 miles long. It is a wonderful path to get away from the cars on the road and still enjoy the views of the nearby national park.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails are available around Medora?
There are 6 mountain bike trails documented around Medora in this guide, offering a variety of experiences through the badlands landscape.
Are there any easy mountain bike trails suitable for beginners in Medora?
Yes, Medora offers easy trails perfect for beginners. Two notable options are the Maah Daah Hey Trail: Medora Loop, which is 13.0 miles long, and the Lower Paddock Creek Trail & Jones Creek Trail loop, spanning 11.5 miles.
What are some longer mountain bike routes in the Medora area?
For those seeking a longer ride, the Trail to Medora – Cottonwood Campground loop from Cottonwood Campground is a challenging 61.8-mile route. Another option is the moderate Upper & Lower Talkington Trail loop, which covers 15.4 miles.
Are there any challenging mountain bike trails for experienced riders?
Yes, experienced riders can tackle the difficult Trail to Medora – Cottonwood Campground loop from Cottonwood Campground, which features significant elevation changes over its 61.8-mile length.
What is the best time of year to go mountain biking in Medora?
The best time for mountain biking in Medora is typically spring and fall when temperatures are milder. Summer can be very hot, and winters bring snow and ice, making many trails inaccessible or difficult. Always check local weather and trail conditions before heading out.
Are there any loop mountain bike trails around Medora?
Many of the trails around Medora are loops, offering convenient starting and ending points. Examples include the easy Maah Daah Hey Trail: Medora Loop, the moderate Maah Daah Hey and Petrified Forest Loop, and the challenging Trail to Medora – Cottonwood Campground loop from Cottonwood Campground.
What kind of scenery can I expect on mountain bike trails in Medora?
Medora's mountain bike trails showcase the unique badlands landscape of North Dakota. You'll encounter rugged terrain, distinctive buttes, and views of the Little Missouri River valley. Trails often navigate open plains, riverine areas, and formations of exposed rock, providing a diverse and scenic experience.
What are some interesting landmarks or natural features to see near the trails?
While mountain biking, you can explore several natural and historical landmarks. Highlights include the Big Plateau Trail, the Old East Entrance Station, Theodore Roosevelt National Park, and the Wind Canyon Nature Trail. The Theodore Roosevelt National Park itself is a major natural monument in the area.
Are there any specific viewpoints along the mountain bike trails?
Yes, for scenic views, consider visiting the Ridgeline Nature Trail Overlook. Many trails also offer expansive vistas of the badlands formations and river valleys.
What do other mountain bikers say about the trails in Medora?
More than 10 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore Medora's varied terrain. Users often praise the unique badlands scenery and the mix of elevation changes and natural features that cater to different skill levels.
Are there any trails that pass through a petrified forest?
Yes, the moderate Maah Daah Hey and Petrified Forest Loop will take you through areas featuring petrified wood, offering a unique geological experience.
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