As the weather gets warmer and the days get longer, sometimes it’s nice to get out and see the world, or in this case, the state of North Dakota. Roll down the windows and gaze upon the sights of some of the most beautiful parts of the Peace Garden State on these gorgeous North Dakota scenic byways and, most importantly, take your time. There’s no need for a rush during sightseeing, and these drives make it totally worth it! Check out these eight wonderful North Dakota scenic drives; you’re sure to want to add them all to your bucket list.

1. Standing Rock National Native American Scenic Byway
Standing Rock National Native American Scenic Byway via Facebook
The lengthy Standing Rock National Native American Scenic Byway snakes along Lake Oahe starting from Cannon Ball, North Dakota and going down into South Dakota. The views of the water and the surrounding rolling hills are optimal for one of the most relaxing drives you'll ever experience.
2. Old Red Old Ten Scenic Byway
Old Red Old Ten Scenic Byway, 425 S Elk St, Hebron, ND 58638, USA
Old Red Old Ten Scenic Byway via Facebook
Experience the North Dakota country side and small towns on the Old Red Old Ten Scenic Byway. From Mandan to Dickinson, this road will take you through history of North Dakota's original settlers.
3. Turtle Mountain Scenic Byway
Turtle Mountain, ND, USA
Rick Webb/Flickr
The Turtle Mountains by themselves are already a breathtaking place to experience, so the Turtle Mountain Scenic Byway creates a convenient way to see the beauty held there from behind the wheel. From the hills and forests to the water and old farmsteads, this trip has it all and it's all picture perfect.
4. Theodore Roosevelt National Park North Unit Scenic Byway
Theodore Roosevelt National Park North Unit, 208 Scenic Dr, Watford City, ND 58854, USA
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr
North Dakota's spectacular national park has a byway through it that honestly should be on everyone's bucket list. Don't be surprised if you come across a bison or two along the Theodore Roosevelt National Park North Unit Scenic Byway. Other animals like wild horses or bighorn sheep may cross your path, as well. So take this one slow and soak in the sights (and watch for critters). We think it's one of the most scenic drives in North Dakota, and you won't soon forget it!

Follow along on a virtual drive through the North Unit of the park with this YouTube video from takemytripdotcom:

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5. Killdeer Mountain Four Bears Scenic Byway
J. Stephen Conn/Flickr
The adventures the Killdeer Mountain Four Bears Scenic Byway can take you on are ones you'll want to take again. The history of the area like the Killdeer Battlefield and the high buttes of the carved land are all accessible on the byway. The scenery can be simply breathtaking at times and you'll probably learn a thing or too while taking the route.
6. Sheyenne River Valley National Scenic Byway
Sheyenne River Valley National Scenic Byway, 100-416 I-94BL, Valley City, ND 58072, USA
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr
Take a leisurely drive through the open, vast prairies in the Sheyenne River Valley. The Sheyenne River Valley National Scenic Byway was the first one in North Dakota that was nationally recognized and has won awards, too. You can't miss this one. Trust me, it is well worth the trip!
7. Chan SanSan Scenic Backway
Jimmy Emerson, DVM/Flickr
Don't be surprised that most of the Chan SanSan Scenic Backway is unpaved. This is a true way to explore small town rural North Dakota while keeping right beside the James River. There's tons to do and see along this route, so you'll have to experience it yourself!
8. Sakakawea Scenic Byway
Lake Sakakawea, North Dakota, USA
Jasperdo/Flickr
Check out a lot of the Lewis and Clark points of interest by following their trail and discovering some of the historical sites still standing today, right next to the massive Lake Sakakwea. There's tons of history to go with some amazing visuals of the area, and the Sakakawea Scenic Byway makes for the perfect summer drive especially since you can stop along the way for fishing or other lake activities.

We can’t wait to hit the road at the first chance we get! So pack up your car – don’t forget plenty of snacks – and hit the road on one of these North Dakota scenic drives!

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More to Explore

North Dakota Scenic Drives

Tori Jane | June 08, 2022

Where are some wonderful places for taking in the North Dakota scenery?  

North Dakota is a very scenic state, but somehow, despite this, it’s one of the least-visited states in the entire country! What gives? Well, it’s certainly not lack of amazing scenery. There is plenty of amazing scenery in North Dakota to admire. Head to Theodore Roosevelt National Park and enjoy the incredible canyons, beautiful badlands, and photogenic geological features. Watch the herds of wild bison graze in their natural habitat and take in the purely North Dakotan whimsy. Wander to one of our beautiful lakes, like Lake Sakakawea, and enjoy the cool, clear water.  

What are the best North Dakota scenic byways to drive?  

We happen to have a few favorite North Dakota scenic byways to explore, and we think you’ll love them, too. Speaking of Theodore Roosevelt National Park, embark upon the stunning Theodore Roosevelt National Park North Unit Scenic Byway, an incredible journey that’ll lead you through some of the best North Dakota scenery the park has to offer. We’re also totally obsessed with the Killdeer Mountain Four Bears Scenic Byway, a route running from New Town to Manning with plenty of greenery, interesting geography, and more along the way.  

What are some of the prettiest drives in North Dakota?  

Some of the prettiest drives in North Dakota aren’t just the official byways. North Dakota is home to plenty of beautiful backroads and country roads, too, and those are probably the ones we think are the most fun to explore. There are plenty of scenic drives near me, so there are certain to be a few near you, too! Do the Chan Sansan Scenic Backway for a good time driving into the valley, or the Des Lacs National Wildlife Refuge Scenic Backway, an incredibly beautiful drive with lots of interesting critters to spot while you’re out. Other favorites include the Rendezvous Region Scenic Backway and the amazing Enchanted Highway.  

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