Dickinson, ND offers access to rugged badlands and river adventures with hiking, biking, paddling, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Perfect for outdoor lovers seeking wide-open spaces and distinctive landscapes in all seasons.
Dickinson, ND offers access to rugged badlands and river adventures with hiking, biking, paddling, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Perfect for outdoor lovers seeking wide-open spaces and distinctive landscapes in all seasons.
Outdoor Adventure in Dickinson, North Dakota
Located near the scenic badlands, Dickinson serves as an ideal basecamp for exploring some of North Dakota’s most dramatic natural landscapes. Outdoor enthusiasts can experience a variety of activities year-round.
Discover the unique natural wonders, summits, and scenic landmarks that make Dickinson, North Dakota special.
★ 8.2⌖ 27.71 milesEasyExplore the stunning vistas at Painted Canyon in North Dakota’s Theodore Roosevelt National Park. This easy, scenic viewpoint offers year-round visits with chances to see bison and mule deer. Enjoy picnicking and photography for a peaceful, colorful experience.
★ 8.5⌖ 32.37 milesExplore the untouched beauty of Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota. Drive-in access makes it easy to enjoy hiking and wildlife viewing. This hidden gem is quiet year-round, perfect for photography and exploring historic landscapes.
★ 7.5⌖ 33.90 milesEasyExplore this short 0.4-mile loop near Medora, North Dakota. An easy route showcasing dramatic views of Little Missouri River and diverse wildlife. Perfect for photographers and wildlife watchers looking for a peaceful escape.
★ 8.5⌖ 35.08 milesExplore the rugged South Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota. Experience breathtaking vistas, diverse wildlife, and rich geology. Perfect for photographers and nature enthusiasts, it's a year-round destination with quiet trails and rich history.
★ 8.5⌖ 35.47 milesModerateExplore the Maah Daah Hey Trail near Medora, ND, spanning 144 miles with moderate difficulty. Ideal for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, this rugged trail offers quiet, scenic views and wildlife, especially in spring and fall.
★ 8⌖ 38.57 milesExplore over a million acres at Little Missouri National Grassland near Billings, ND. Ideal for hiking and wildlife viewing with bison and pronghorn sightings. Best visited in spring or fall for its temperate weather and fewer crowds.
★ 8.5⌖ 39.53 milesModerateExplore the 10-mile Petrified Forest Loop near Medora, ND, offering moderate trails through a landscape showcasing ancient petrified woods. Enjoy photography and wildlife watching, with chances to see bison and wildflowers. Best visited in spring and fall.
★ 8⌖ 46.15 milesExplore over 47 miles of trails in Little Missouri State Park, North Dakota. This remote area is perfect for hiking and horseback riding with stunning badlands and diverse wildlife. Best visited in spring and fall. Not accessible for wheelchairs. Quiet and scenic year-round.
Discover the top adventure activities and curated experiences in Dickinson, North Dakota, verified by our editors to help you make the most of your trip.
Book unforgettable outdoor adventures, guided tours, and gear rentals with verified Local Experts in Dickinson, North Dakota.
⌖ 94.8 miBorealis Flume fat bikes are available from 701 Cycle & Sport in Bismarck for half-day, full-day or weekly rentals—this guide lays out the options and what the bike is built to handle.
⌖ 94.8 miA 30-day ski rental that supplies skis, boots and poles, professionally fitted and tuned so you can spend a full month skiing without hauling your own kit.
⌖ 94.8 miA full‑season ski package — skis, boots and poles — tuned and professionally fitted so you can spend the winter on snow, not in the shop.
⌖ 94.8 miA one‑week ski rental from 701 Cycle & Sport that supplies skis, boots, and poles—professionally fitted and tuned so you can spend seven days on the snow without worrying about gear.
⌖ 95.8 miAn eight-hour rental of the 2023 Kawasaki STX 160 in Williston that lays out the machine’s features, age restriction, and practical planning details.
⌖ 95.9 miAn 8-hour, family-focused fishing outing featuring bow and stern fish seats and a 16.5-gallon aerated LiveWell—this guide explains the boat’s capacity and on-board gear features.
⌖ 95.9 miRent an Ice Castle Fish House or a Sea Ray SPX 190 in Williston for 1–3 day adventures; pick up at 503 2nd St W for a curated short‑stay on-water or camping experience.
⌖ 95.9 miRent a Club Car Golf Cart Gas from Arnies Rentals in Williston — a gas-powered, four-passenger cart that can reach up to 19 mph and is available for 1–6 day rentals.
⌖ 95.9 miA half‑day (4‑hour) rental from Arnie's Rentals in Williston lets you choose a fully equipped 2023 Kawasaki Mule Pro M‑X or 2023 Polaris Ranger 1000—both street‑legal and fitted with full cabs, heat/AC and winches—making this guide useful for planning a short, capable outing in the Bakken.
⌖ 95.9 miAn 8-hour, full-day rental from Arnie’s Rentals in Williston offering choice of 2023 Kawasaki Mule Pro M‑X or 2023 Polaris Ranger 1000—both with full cabs and climate control.
⌖ 96.2 miA full‑day, 8‑hour rental on agile Summit snowmobiles with Rotax power — a focused guide for riders aged 21 and over.
⌖ 133.7 miA private, five-hour boat-fishing charter on Fort Peck Reservoir — this guide explains what to expect, what to bring and which species you can target.
⌖ 161.6 miA hands-on, two-day workshop that pairs a full day of field excavation with a full day of professional lab preparation for participants ages 12 and up.
⌖ 173.1 miA full-day guided experience from Rapid City that combines hiking and horseback riding to explore the Black Hills’ hidden trails and sweeping landscapes.
⌖ 178.8 miA 1.5-hour guided/off-road rental ride to Custer Peak that combines a 30-minute outbound, 30 minutes at the viewpoint, and a 30-minute return—perfect for a short, scenic off-road escape.
Make the most of your visit to Dickinson, North Dakota with these essential planning tips, seasonal events, and protected lands.
Dickinson, North Dakota hosts celebrated events throughout the year showcasing the region's culture, outdoor lifestyle, and community spirit.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Dickinson, North Dakota during the iconic Dickinson Days. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Dickinson, North Dakota during the iconic North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame Rodeo. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Dickinson, North Dakota during the iconic Badlands Music Festival. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Dickinson, North Dakota is surrounded by incredible protected natural lands offering pristine trails, wildlife habitats, and wilderness conservation.
Theodore Roosevelt National Park features stunning Badlands terrain juxtaposed with diverse wildlife, offering a pristine glimpse into the natural beauty of North Dakota.
Little Missouri National Grassland is the largest grassland managed by the U.S. Forest Service, offering rugged terrain and dynamic recreational opportunities in North Dakota.
Lake Sakakawea State Park, located in North Dakota, offers a stunning array of outdoor activities along the shores of one of the largest man-made lakes in the United States.
Bring insect repellent during summer months.
Check weather forecasts; evenings can be cool even in summer.
Gas stations and services may be limited in remote areas.
Carry plenty of water and sun protection when exploring badlands.
Always check local regulations, fire restrictions, trail conditions, and weather forecasts before setting out on any adventure in Dickinson, North Dakota. Respect nature, wildlife, and fellow adventurers by following Leave No Trace principles.