North Dakota isn’t exactly known for its plentiful waterfalls. Unlike other states, North Dakota is “drier,” so to speak, and doesn’t offer much of anything in terms of epic, cascading waterfall experiences. Sure, there are some rivers and a handful of lakes, but we are mysteriously lacking in the falls department. There is, however, one natural waterfall in the entire state; it requires a brief hike to access, and it’s fed by one of the very few North Dakota natural springs running underground. According to some, springs such as this one hold special healing “abilities,” and folks seek them out to soak them up and enjoy their beauty.
“Mineral Springs Trail” is pretty self-explanatory.
Anna Knutson/AllTrails The trail is 4.3 miles round-trip (a bit over two miles out and two miles back), and it can be found nestled in Sheyenne State Forest near Fort Ransom.
It’s a fascinating place thanks to its uniqueness, and no matter what motivates you, you’re sure to find something intriguing about it.
Scott Tewksbury/AllTrails Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the splended natural beauty of the area, and earth science buffs will be interested in seeing a rare North Dakota treat courtesy of mama nature herself: the mineral spring, which drops eight feet down into the Sheyenne River.
It’s truly gorgeous, and it’s a treat to see year-round.
Maria Zacharias/AllTrails Of course, your best bet is to go out just after a good rainstorm, or during snowmelt in spring. The runoff waters engorge the river, ensuring a truly photogenic landscape unlike any other you’ll ever find in North Dakota.
It kind of feels like something out of a fairy tale, especially when the surrounding world is lush and green…
Levi Sundby/AllTrails
…though, of course, winter brings with it a a certain frozen charm that is well worth a visit to see as well.
Lacy Ripplinger/AllTrails
We de recommend two things for this hike: closed-toed shoes that you’re not afraid to get wet, and good bug spray.
Lauris Schultheiss/AllTrails During the winter months, bugs aren’t an issue, but during spring, summer (ESPECIALLY summer), and parts of autumn, one can expect to encounter plenty of insects. You ARE trekking into wildlands, after all.
Naturally, the springs aren’t the ONLY draw to this splendid, laid-back hike - there’s plenty of gorgeous woodlands and prairies along the way.
Niki Nelson/AllTrails Perhaps even best of all: this trail is lightly-trekked, so you’re not likely to run into crowds on any given day (though your best odds are during the week at daytime).
So, what are your thoughts? Do you have any favorite hidden gems in North Dakota you’d like to see us cover? Tell us about them in the comments – we love hearing from you!
Anna Knutson/AllTrails
The trail is 4.3 miles round-trip (a bit over two miles out and two miles back), and it can be found nestled in Sheyenne State Forest near Fort Ransom.
Scott Tewksbury/AllTrails
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the splended natural beauty of the area, and earth science buffs will be interested in seeing a rare North Dakota treat courtesy of mama nature herself: the mineral spring, which drops eight feet down into the Sheyenne River.
Maria Zacharias/AllTrails
Of course, your best bet is to go out just after a good rainstorm, or during snowmelt in spring. The runoff waters engorge the river, ensuring a truly photogenic landscape unlike any other you’ll ever find in North Dakota.
Levi Sundby/AllTrails
Lacy Ripplinger/AllTrails
Lauris Schultheiss/AllTrails
During the winter months, bugs aren’t an issue, but during spring, summer (ESPECIALLY summer), and parts of autumn, one can expect to encounter plenty of insects. You ARE trekking into wildlands, after all.
Niki Nelson/AllTrails
Perhaps even best of all: this trail is lightly-trekked, so you’re not likely to run into crowds on any given day (though your best odds are during the week at daytime).
Did you know about North Dakota’s only hidden waterfall? Need a map? Check out this official one from NDGIS!
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Address: Mineral Springs, ND, USA
