I absolutely love Theodore Roosevelt National Park, and whenever someone asks for a hiking recommendation, the Elkblom & Big Plateau Loop is at the top of my list. It’s the best day hike in the park, offering stunning views, an abundance of wildlife, a river crossing, and a taste of the wild North Dakotan landscape.
About the Hike
– Distance: 5.3 miles
– Type: Loop
– Avg. Time: 2-3 hours
– Difficulty: Moderate
– Dog Friendly: No
Why You’ll Love It
The Big Plateau Hike is a treasure trove of amazing sights in Theodore Roosevelt National Park. You’ll be greeted with breathtaking vistas, plenty of wildlife, and well-maintained trails. It strikes a perfect balance between ease and challenge, making it accessible yet rewarding.
Pro Tip: Be ready for some water crossings. At the start of the hike, you’ll need to cross the Little Missouri River. When I visited, the water level was low enough to wade through easily. I wore waterproof boots, while others opted to go barefoot.
On the plateau, you’re likely to encounter bison and other wildlife. It’s crucial to keep a safe distance, especially during the fall rutting season when bison are more aggressive. I recall a ranger having to intervene with some groups making risky choices. Having a guide can enhance your experience and safety.
Getting There
The trailhead is at Peaceful Valley Ranch, just off the main loop road through the South Unit. Despite its modest size, the parking lot wasn’t crowded during my midday visit, which is a perk of this less-frequented park. From the South Unit Visitor Center, take East River Road. Turn left at the intersection with Scenic Loop Drive, and then another left to Peaceful Valley Ranch. The trailhead is at the end of the parking lot, and the ranch itself is worth a visit too.
Best Time to Hike
Spring and fall offer the best conditions for this hike, avoiding the extreme heat of summer and the severe cold of winter. Keep in mind that fall is bison rut season, which can make encounters with these large animals more likely and more dangerous. Summer can bring intense heat, so be prepared for potential heat exhaustion. Winter can bring ice and snow, complicating trail access and limiting park services.
The Elkblom & Big Plateau Loop
This hike turned into an unexpected adventure for me when I joined a ranger-led group. The trail starts flat and easy until you reach the river. Depending on water levels, you may get a little wet crossing it. Shortly after, you’ll reach the main loop intersection, which can be tackled in either direction. We went clockwise, making for a steeper ascent and gentler descent, which was easier on the knees.
The trail climbs gradually, winding through beautiful brush and leading you up to the plateau. This open area is where you might encounter bison, especially during rutting season. It’s essential to stick to the trail edge as a precaution.
At the plateau’s peak, you’ll be awed by the panoramic views. The trail briefly connects with the renowned Maah Daah Hey Trail, a 144-mile non-motorized path spanning from south of Medora to north of the North Unit. It’s an incredible route that showcases the North Dakota badlands.
During our hike, we were lucky to spot some feral horses. After about 1.4 miles on the plateau, the trail flattens out before looping back towards the river crossing and eventually to the trailhead.
Tips & FAQs
– Wildlife Awareness: Keep a safe distance from bison and be prepared to move quickly if they approach.
– Hydration: The park can be surprisingly hot, so bring plenty of water.
– Footwear: Wear sturdy shoes for uneven terrain and river crossings.
– Stay on the Trail: Preserve the wilderness by sticking to the designated path.
– Ranger Guides: If possible, join a ranger-led hike for added insights and safety.
Explore More
If you enjoy this hike, consider visiting other nearby attractions:
– Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site
– Things to Do in Fargo, North Dakota
– Minuteman Missile National Historic Site in South Dakota
– Best Hikes in Badlands National Park
– Epic Minneapolis to Yellowstone National Park Road Trip (via North Dakota)