It’s official: North Dakota is a state for nature lovers. Okay, so maybe we just decided that right now, but still, the point stands. But let’s face it: our state isn’t exactly known for its mountains and vistas, but it is known for its incredible wildlands, hills, canyons, valleys, and other breathtaking natural features. We found an amazing scenic drive that leads you through North Dakota’s most famous attraction – beautiful Theodore Roosevelt National Park – and it takes you to what is probably the best view in the state, too. Take a meandering scenic drive to River Bend Overlook in North Dakota; you won’t regret it, especially if you’re a fan of wonder and awe.
There are numerous scenic drives within Theodore Roosevelt National Park, but for this one, we’ll be embarking upon the North Unit Scenic Byway.
alpw/TripAdvisor It’s a 14-mile-long drive that takes riders through some of North Dakota’s last remaining wilderness as well as Badlands, prairies, and more.
The drive begins at the north entrance station and extends to the amazing Oxbow Overlook.
Jasperdo/Flickr At some point, you’ll reach River Bend Overlook, and we strongly suggest you get out of the car for this one!
It’s literally one of THE best overlooks in the entire state, with amazing sweeping views of our most beloved National Park.
Jasperdo/Flickr The shelter present at the Overlook offers education and insight as well as respite from rain or shine. The drive is open year-round, so it helps to have cover when it’s snowing, raining, or anything else.
No matter the weather, this overlook is worth a gander.
Grover R/TripAdvisor …and honestly, if you ask us, we kind of feel like rainy days might be some of the best days for this little gem. Few things are as breathtaking as cloud bases so low that they loom over the tops of the canyon walls.
As you continue along the Byway, you may encounter all kinds of delightful wildlife like bison and migrating birds.
Carol A S/TripAdvisor The park (and the drive through the park) is filled with fascinating geography and intriguing geology. Be sure to get yourself a roadside geology book or map to learn more about what’s going on in the world around your car.
…if that’s not exactly your thing, we get it. No worries: there’s plenty of value in simply enjoying the view.
Smiledoctorsmile/TripAdvisor
Want more information? Check out the details on the official NPS.gov website or the official North Dakota Tourism page. Have you ever driven to (or hiked) the River Bend Overlook in North Dakota? Tell us about your experience in the comments! What’s your favorite scenic drive in North Dakota?
alpw/TripAdvisor
It’s a 14-mile-long drive that takes riders through some of North Dakota’s last remaining wilderness as well as Badlands, prairies, and more.
Jasperdo/Flickr
At some point, you’ll reach River Bend Overlook, and we strongly suggest you get out of the car for this one!
The shelter present at the Overlook offers education and insight as well as respite from rain or shine. The drive is open year-round, so it helps to have cover when it’s snowing, raining, or anything else.
Grover R/TripAdvisor
…and honestly, if you ask us, we kind of feel like rainy days might be some of the best days for this little gem. Few things are as breathtaking as cloud bases so low that they loom over the tops of the canyon walls.
Carol A S/TripAdvisor
The park (and the drive through the park) is filled with fascinating geography and intriguing geology. Be sure to get yourself a roadside geology book or map to learn more about what’s going on in the world around your car.
Smiledoctorsmile/TripAdvisor
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Address: River Bend Overlook Trail, Grassy Butte, ND 58634, USA
