Theodore Roosevelt National Park is a great place to ride. The challenging terrain, reasonable riding
distance, and surrounding beauty provide an excellent one-day getaway from the
local roads of Bismarck/Mandan.
While riding anytime between April and November is possible, I prefer to
visit the park in early June when much of the surrounding vegetation is green and
the wildlife is active.
The park exists as two units: north and south. The north unit, located approximately 50
miles north of Belfield, ND, has a 14 mile out-and-back road that terminates at
the Oxbow Overlook.
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(Oxbow Overlook)
The south unit is immediately north of Medora, ND. This unit showcases a 36 mile loop perfect
for bicyclists. Despite the lack of a shoulder
along the loop road, automobile traffic is normally light and almost always
travelling less than 30 mph. The terrain
is surprisingly hilly (for North Dakota), with many short, steep climbs. It is an ideal ride to test the legs after
logging a spring time of base miles.
(Looking south from Boicourt Overlook)
The Central Dakota Cyclists have organized a group ride the
last three years through the south unit during the third Saturday in June. Bicyclists of all backgrounds and abilities have
attended, and all – with the exception of one cyclist this year – have been
able to ride the 36 mile loop at least once.
(Riders take a break while a storm builds to the west)
(A family event... ...and a great workout as well!)
(Riding toward Wind Canyon)
