Achenbach and Bison Trail Loop

The loop can be done several ways starting either out of Juniper campground beginning with 1 of 2 necessary river crossings and doing the extent south of the river first, or it can be done from the Caprock coulee trailhead heading west, doing the extant north of the river first. This trail circles a large portion of the west end of Theodore Roosevelt National Park North Unit. Can be done as a strenuous day hike or backcountry backpacking trip is suggested. Trail crosses the Little Missouri River twice and a majority is within the designated wilderness area of the park. It is best to pack all water due to high sediment content of LM River and unreliable spring flow. NOTE The trail does not come to a complete loop. 2 miles of hiking along the road, hitchhiking, or a 2nd dropped vehicle are required. Uphill and downhill gradient in both directions. Little Missouri River crossings are easiest in summer months due to low river conditions. Strenuous sections climb buttes and drop down into coulees. A large portion of the trail follows the sage brush flats and winds around the base of the buttes.