North Dakota Scenic Byways and Backways - And More

When travelers descend the backway into the valley, they see the panoramic view of a winding river surrounded by tall grass prairie and wildflowers. This area is rich in Native American history, earthen mounds, early settlements and scenic beauty.

The most striking experience is wildlife viewing opportunities at the wildlife refuge. More than 250 bird species have been seen here, including waterfowl, raptors and many other migratory birds.

From the rugged Killdeer Mountains to the deeply entrenched Little Missouri River breaks and Badlands, this byway provides an enchanting and unique landscape in one of the most scenic areas of western North Dakota.

Follow the course of Lewis and Clark's journey on the high ground above the winding Missouri River and discover the history and culture of the people who lived in the wooded valleys of the Missouri and Knife rivers.

Originally referred to as the Red Trail that became Old Highway 10, this byway provides ample opportunity to explore how life was many years ago for those settling in North Dakota.

Winding along the bends of the Pembina River, you can enjoy the panoramic view of the Pembina Gorge, along with the year-round recreation opportunities of the area.

In addition to nature and scenery at its best, archaeology, history, culture and recreation options are found along the byway, North Dakota’s first nationally recognized scenic byway.

History comes alive on a journey along the Missouri River, to an area where Lakota chief Sitting Bull lived and died. Lewis and Clark stopped 14 times along the route and famous mountain men like Jim Bridger and Jedediah Smith passed through.

This byway provides the colorful North Dakota Badlands as a scenic backdrop, with its sweeping vistas of one of the last remnants of wilderness on the Northern Great Plains.

This byway begins its ascent winding through the serene beauty of the Turtle Mountains, passing farmsteads, pasture land, recreational areas, beautiful lakes and tree-covered wildlife areas before descending into the foothills 

The best way to get up close and personal with wildlife and the landscape of the South Unit is to ride the 32-mile scenic loop within the park. The route leads to many geographic sites and overlooks. Motorists often encounter bison near the road.

Metal sculptures, including “World’s Largest Tin Family,” “Teddy Rides Again,” “Pheasants on the Prairie,” “Grasshoppers in the Field,” “Geese in Flight,” “Deer Crossing” and “Fisherman’s Dream” dot the highway.