Theodore Roosevelt National Park, initially known as Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park, has a rich history. Although initially an oddity as a memorial park, it now stands as a fitting tribute in the form of a national park, preserving a vast expanse of North Dakota’s unique badlands.
Why is the Park named for Theodore Roosevelt?
The park is named after Theodore Roosevelt, who first visited the North Dakota Badlands in 1883. Captivated by the rugged landscape, Roosevelt made frequent visits, eventually investing in a ranch and building the Maltese Cross Cabin. These experiences occurred long before he became the Governor of New York and, subsequently, the President of the United States. After the tragic passing of his wife, Roosevelt returned to the solace of his ranch and the wilderness of the Badlands, becoming deeply connected to the area that would later be honored as Theodore Roosevelt National Park.
When was Theodore Roosevelt National Park established?
The transition from a simple park to a National Park was gradual. Initially surveyed for park status, the lands saw roads and trails created by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The area was designated as Theodore Roosevelt National Wildlife Refuge in 1946 and renamed Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park in 1951. Its final designation as Theodore Roosevelt National Park was established in 1978, the only Memorial Park managed by the National Park Service until then.
Park Structure
The park is divided into two distinct units: the North Unit and the South Unit. The North Unit’s entrance lies about 15 miles southeast of Watford City via Route 85, while the South Unit is accessible near Medora off I-94. The two entrances are separated by nearly 70 miles, with no internal roads linking them; however, for the adventurous, hiking between them is possible with a backcountry permit.
Best Time to Visit
Open year-round, Theodore Roosevelt National Park welcomes approximately 600,000 visitors annually. Summer sees the highest foot traffic due to school vacations and optimal weather. Winter offers serene solitude, although snow can sometimes close park roads. Spring brings rain, which visitors should plan for, while fall provides some of the best conditions with fewer crowds and mild weather.
Weather Conditions
North Dakota’s weather is notably extreme. Winters can be brutally cold, with temperatures dipping below -10°F and significant snowfall. Summers, on the other hand, can be sweltering, occasionally surpassing 100°F. The best times to visit are from mid-May to October, with fall, particularly September, featuring warm days and plenty of sunshine.
Must-Visit Areas and Activities
For those eager to explore:
– South Unit: Drive the loop road, stop at overlooks, and perhaps walk the Oxbow Overlook or Painted Canyon Nature Trail for quick yet rewarding views.
– North Unit: Though smaller, it offers notable sights like Cannonball Concretions and River Bend Overlook.
In both units, you’ll likely encounter diverse wildlife. The park features bison and prairie dogs in abundance, with the birdwatching opportunities also being plentiful.
Hiking in the Park
For hiking enthusiasts, Theodore Roosevelt National Park offers trails ranging from easy to strenuous:
– North Unit: Quick hikes include the Oxbow Overlook (0.2 miles) and the Sperati Point Trail (1.5 miles). For the more adventurous, the Achenbach Trail spans over 18 miles and requires a backcountry permit.
– South Unit: Intriguing trails include the 5.2-mile Big Plateau Loop and the 4-mile Painted Canyon Trail.
Accommodations
While the park has no internal lodges, there are several nearby options:
– Camping: Cottonwood Campground (South Unit) and Juniper Campground (North Unit) are ideal for nature lovers.
– Hotels: Choose from various hotels in Watford City or Medora for convenient access to the park’s entrances.
Visitor Facilities
Three visitor centers cater to park guests:
– North Unit Visitor Center in Watford City.
– South Unit Visitor Center in Medora, near the Maltese Cross Cabin.
– Painted Canyon Visitor Center, accessible from I-94.
Entrance Fees and Passes
Entry fees range from $15 for individuals to $30 per vehicle, with an annual park pass available for $55. Frequent visitors to multiple parks might consider the America the Beautiful pass for $80, granting access to all National Parks for a year.
How to Get There
Easily accessible via I-94 or ND-85, the park’s units are about an hour’s drive apart. Bismarck, the nearest city with an airport, is approximately two hours away. For those pressed for time, a day trip covering the scenic drives and key overlooks is possible, but a two-day stay is ideal for a more thorough exploration.
Nearby Attractions
Additionally, visitors might explore nearby landmarks such as Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site, Pompeys Pillar National Monument, and Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site.
In summary, Theodore Roosevelt National Park offers a vibrant mix of history, nature, and adventure, making it a worthwhile destination for all kinds of travelers. Enjoy the wild, untamed spirit that captivated America’s 26th President, and create some unforgettable memories in the process.