The best road cycling routes in North Dakota

North Dakota offers a diverse range of terrain for road cyclists. You'll find flat, expansive prairie roads in the eastern part of the state, particularly around the Red River Valley. In contrast, the western region, especially within and around Theodore Roosevelt National Park, features more challenging, rolling hills and rugged badlands with significant elevation changes. River valleys like the Sheyenne and Missouri also provide varied and picturesque rides.

Yes, North Dakota has numerous easy road cycling routes. For instance, the St. Benedict loop is an easy 29-mile path with gentle gradients through agricultural landscapes. Another accessible option is the Wall Street loop, which is just under 12 miles and also rated easy. In total, there are over 20 easy routes available in the region.

For more advanced road cycling, the badlands of Theodore Roosevelt National Park offer the most significant challenges. Routes like the East River Road to Scenic Loop Drive and Boicourt Overlook loop, a 34.8-mile ride, feature substantial elevation gain. The park's scenic drives provide a rewarding experience with dramatic geological formations and rolling terrain. Overall, there are 19 moderate and 1 difficult route for those seeking a greater challenge.

North Dakota's road cycling routes offer many scenic viewpoints and natural features. In Theodore Roosevelt National Park, you can experience the dramatic badlands from overlooks like the Painted Canyon Overlook or the Ridgeline Nature Trail Overlook. The Sheyenne River Valley National Scenic Byway provides views of a snaking river and charming small towns. Additionally, you can find highlights such as the Views of Lake Sakakawea along some routes.

Many of North Dakota's paved trails in cities and state parks are excellent for family-friendly road cycling. The Missouri Valley Millennium Legacy Trail, connecting Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park to Mandan, offers a paved path along the Missouri River with historical points of interest. The Fargo and Moorhead River Trails Loop is another easy, accessible option. For a state park experience, the Lake Metigoshe Paved Trail loop within Lake Metigoshe State Park is also suitable for families.

The best time for road biking in North Dakota is typically from late spring through early fall (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally mild and pleasant. Summer offers warm temperatures, while spring and fall provide cooler rides and beautiful scenery, especially with autumn foliage in areas like the Sheyenne River Valley. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Yes, encountering wildlife is a distinct possibility, especially in natural areas. In Theodore Roosevelt National Park and the surrounding Little Missouri National Grassland, cyclists often spot bison, wild horses, prairie dogs, and elk. The state's diverse landscapes, from badlands to river valleys, provide habitats for various species, making wildlife sightings a common and exciting part of the cycling experience.

Many road cycling routes in North Dakota are designed as loops, offering convenient starting and ending points. Examples include the East River Road to Scenic Loop Drive and Boicourt Overlook loop in the badlands, the easy St. Benedict loop through agricultural areas, and the Harwood loop through open prairie. These circular routes allow you to explore the region without retracing your path.

The road cycling experience in North Dakota is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 20 reviews. Reviewers often praise the state's diverse landscapes, from the dramatic badlands to the peaceful prairie roads, and the generally low traffic. The opportunity to immerse oneself in nature and spot abundant wildlife is also frequently highlighted as a major draw.

While bicycles are welcome on all public roads within Theodore Roosevelt National Park, including the scenic drives, riders must share the road with vehicles. There are no specific permits required for cycling on these roads. However, off-road cycling and mountain biking are generally not allowed within the park's immediate boundaries. For detailed information on park regulations, you can visit the official NPS website: nps.gov/thro/planyourvisit/bicycling.htm.

Parking availability varies by route and location. For routes within state parks or national parks, designated parking areas are typically available at visitor centers or trailheads. For routes starting in towns or cities, public parking lots may be an option. It's always advisable to check the specific route details on komoot or local tourism websites for information on parking facilities before you start your ride.

North Dakota's low traffic and well-maintained roads make it suitable for longer cross-country bike trips. While the Maah Daah Hey Trail is primarily for mountain biking, its proximity to road access in the Badlands offers rugged backcountry experiences. For road cyclists, routes like Riverdale to Fort Stevenson State Park, at over 60 miles, provide a longer day ride. The state's scenic byways, such as the Sheyenne River Valley National Scenic Byway, also lend themselves to multi-day exploration with stops in charming small towns.