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Explore the Maah Daah Hey Trail in North Dakota: A Scenic Adventure Through the Badlands, Perfect for Hiking, Biking, and Horseback Riding Enthusiasts.

The Maah Daah Hey Trail is a remarkable adventure waiting in the heart of North Dakota. Stretching over 140 miles, it weaves through the rugged Badlands, offering breathtaking views and a unique way to experience the natural beauty of this region. Whether you're an avid hiker, mountain biker, or horseback rider, this trail promises an unforgettable journey through diverse landscapes.

When is the best time to visit Maah Daah Hey Trail?

Best: June–August · 24–27°C

-4° Temperature Range for JanuaryLow: -12.3°C, High: -3.9°C Precipitation Range for JanuaryLow: 10.2 mm, High: 15.2 mm J

-2° Temperature Range for FebruaryLow: -10.8°C, High: -2.1°C Precipitation Range for FebruaryLow: 8.9 mm, High: 13.7 mm F

6° Temperature Range for MarchLow: -5.6°C, High: 5.6°C Precipitation Range for MarchLow: 12.7 mm, High: 18.3 mm M

14° Temperature Range for AprilLow: 1.7°C, High: 14.4°C Precipitation Range for AprilLow: 15.2 mm, High: 25.4 mm A

19° Temperature Range for MayLow: 7.8°C, High: 19.4°C Precipitation Range for MayLow: 25.4 mm, High: 35.6 mm M

Best 24° Temperature Range for JuneLow: 12.2°C, High: 24.4°C Precipitation Range for JuneLow: 35.6 mm, High: 45.7 mm J

Best 27° Temperature Range for JulyLow: 14.4°C, High: 26.7°C Precipitation Range for JulyLow: 30.5 mm, High: 40.6 mm J

Best 26° Temperature Range for AugustLow: 13.9°C, High: 25.6°C Precipitation Range for AugustLow: 25.4 mm, High: 35.6 mm A

20° Temperature Range for SeptemberLow: 8.9°C, High: 20°C Precipitation Range for SeptemberLow: 20.3 mm, High: 30.5 mm S

14° Temperature Range for OctoberLow: 2.8°C, High: 13.9°C Precipitation Range for OctoberLow: 15.2 mm, High: 25.4 mm O

4° Temperature Range for NovemberLow: -4.4°C, High: 4.4°C Precipitation Range for NovemberLow: 12.7 mm, High: 18.3 mm N

-2° Temperature Range for DecemberLow: -10.6°C, High: -2.2°C Precipitation Range for DecemberLow: 10.2 mm, High: 15.2 mm D

Average daytime high and rainfall by month
Month	High (°C)	Rainfall (mm)
January	-4	13
February	-2	11
March	6	15
April	14	20
May	19	31
June (best)	24	41
July (best)	27	36
August (best)	26	31
September	20	25
October	14	20
November	4	15
December	-2	13

Getting to and around Maah Daah Hey Trail

How to get there

The Maah Daah Hey Trail is located in the Badlands of North Dakota. The nearest major airport is Theodore Roosevelt Regional Airport in Dickinson, approximately 70 miles south of the trail's southern terminus in Medora. Another option is the Williston Basin International Airport, about 100 miles north of the trail's northern terminus near Watford City. From these airports, you can rent a car or arrange for shuttle services to reach the trailheads. There are also options for long-distance buses that run to nearby towns, but a car rental is generally the most convenient way to access the trail.

Transportation

Given the remote nature of the Maah Daah Hey Trail, the best way to navigate the area is by car. Rental cars are available at the regional airports in Dickinson and Williston. The trail itself is primarily for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, so personal vehicles will need to be parked at designated trailheads. Shuttle services are available to transport hikers and bikers between trailheads. For those interested in guided tours, there are several local outfitters that offer transportation and guided experiences.

Best attractions in Maah Daah Hey Trail

Maah Daah Hey Trail offers visitors a rugged and breathtaking adventure through the Badlands of North Dakota, showcasing stunning views of canyons, cliffs, and prairies. The trail is perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, with opportunities to spot wildlife such as bison, elk, and wild horses. Visitors can explore unique rock formations, historic sites, and Native American petroglyphs along the way, immersing themselves in the rich history and natural beauty of the area.

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Best landmarks in Maah Daah Hey Trail

Maah Daah Hey Trail offers visitors a rugged and breathtaking landscape filled with unique geological formations, stunning badlands scenery, and an abundance of wildlife. From the towering rock formations of Sentinel Butte to the serene Little Missouri River, visitors can expect to be immersed in the natural beauty of North Dakota. The trail also showcases historical sites such as old homesteads and Native American rock art, providing a glimpse into the region's rich cultural past. Whether hiking, biking, or horseback riding, adventurers will be captivated by the raw beauty and untamed wilderness of Maah Daah Hey Trail.

History museum 4.6 (136 reviews)

Chateau de Mores State Historic Site

Discover the fascinating history of the Marquis de Mores at the Chateau de Mores State Historic Site in the stunning Badlands of North Dakota.

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Explore Maah Daah Hey Trail on the map

Plan your trip on one map. See where the top attractions, landmarks, restaurants and hotels are, and book hotels and experiences in a few clicks.

Best bars in Maah Daah Hey Trail

The nightlife scene of Maah Daah Hey Trail offers a unique experience for visitors, with a variety of cozy bars and lively nightclubs scattered throughout the area. From rustic saloons serving up local brews to modern cocktail lounges with live music, there is something for everyone to enjoy after a day of exploring the beautiful trail. Whether you're looking to unwind with a drink by the campfire or dance the night away, Maah Daah Hey Trail's nightlife scene is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.

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Best shops in Maah Daah Hey Trail

Embark on a unique shopping experience along Maah Daah Hey Trail, where you can discover locally made souvenirs, handcrafted jewelry, and authentic Native American artwork. Browse through charming boutiques and galleries showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region, and pick up one-of-a-kind treasures to cherish as mementos of your journey through this picturesque landscape.

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Maah Daah Hey Trail essentials

Currency and Payment

The official currency is the U.S. Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in the nearby towns of Medora, Watford City, and Dickinson. However, it's advisable to carry some cash, especially if you plan to make purchases at smaller establishments or during emergencies. ATMs are available in these towns, but may be scarce along the trail.

Safety

The Maah Daah Hey Trail is generally safe, but standard precautions should be taken. The area is remote, so always inform someone of your plans and expected return time. Wildlife encounters, including with bison and rattlesnakes, are possible, so be vigilant and maintain a safe distance. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always best to secure your belongings and be aware of your surroundings. Weather can change rapidly, so be prepared for varying conditions.

Emergency Situations

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Cell phone coverage can be intermittent along the trail, so carrying a satellite phone or emergency beacon is recommended. The nearest medical facilities are in Medora, Watford City, and Dickinson. Ensure you have a first aid kit and know basic first aid skills. It's also advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation.

Do's and Don'ts

Fashion: Do wear appropriate outdoor clothing, including sturdy hiking boots, moisture-wicking layers, and sun protection. Avoid wearing cotton, as it retains moisture. Religion: Do respect local customs and any cultural or historical sites you encounter. Public Transport: Do not rely on public transportation to navigate the trail; personal vehicles or shuttle services are essential. Greetings: Do greet fellow hikers and locals with a friendly nod or wave. Eating & Drinking: Do carry sufficient water and high-energy snacks. Don't litter; always pack out what you pack in.

Local Tips

To experience the Maah Daah Hey Trail like a local, consider timing your visit during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) to avoid extreme temperatures and crowds. Visit the nearby Theodore Roosevelt National Park for additional hiking opportunities and wildlife viewing. Engage with local outfitters and guides who can provide insider knowledge and enhance your experience. Attend local events in Medora, such as the Medora Musical, to get a taste of North Dakota culture. Finally, don't miss the chance to stargaze; the remote location offers some of the best night skies in the country.

From Eve

Local phrases worth knowing

You don't need to get them perfect. A few words go a long way, and locals appreciate the effort.

6 phrase groups · English, local and pronunciation

Basics

English	Local	Say it
Hello	Howdy	[haw-dee]
Goodbye	See ya	[see yah]
Yes	Yup	[yuhp]
No	Nope	[nohp]
Please/You're welcome	Please/You're welcome	[please/yer welcome]
Thank you	Thanks	[thaynks]
Excuse me/Sorry	Pardon	[par-dun]
How are you?	Howdy	[haw-dee]
Fine. And you?	Fine. And you?	[fine. and yuh]
Do you speak English?	Ya speak English?	[yah speak ing-lish]
I don't understand	I don't getcha	[ah don't getch-uh]

Eating & Drinking

English	Local	Say it
I'd like to see the menu, please	Show me the grub list, please	[shoh me the gruhb list, please]
I don't eat meat	I don't eat meat	[ah don't eat meet]
Cheers!	Cheers!	[cheers]
I would like to pay, please	I'll settle up, please	[ahll set-tul up, please]

Emergencies

English	Local	Say it
Help!	Help!	[help]
Go away!	Git!	[git]
Call the Police!	Get the law!	[get the law]
Call a doctor!	Get the doc!	[get the doc]
I'm lost	I'm turned around	[ahm turned around]
I'm ill	I'm feelin' poorly	[ahm feel-in' poor-lee]

Shopping

English	Local	Say it
I'd like to buy...	I'm fixin' to buy...	[ahm fix-in' tuh buy...]
I'm just looking	I'm just lookin'	[ahm just look-in']
How much is it?	How much for it?	[how much fer it?]
That's too expensive	That's steep	[thats steep]
Can you lower the price?	Can ya budge on the price?	[can yuh buhj on the price?]

Time & Numbers

English	Local	Say it
What time is it?	What's the time?	[whats the time]
It's one o'clock	It's one	[its one]
Half past (10)	Half past (10)	[half past (10)]
Morning	Mornin'	[mornin']
Afternoon	Afternoon	[afternoon]
Evening	Evenin'	[evenin']
Yesterday	Yest'day	[yest-day]
Today	Today	[today]
Tomorrow	Mornin'	[mornin']
1	1	[1]
2	2	[2]
3	3	[3]
4	4	[4]
5	5	[5]
6	6	[6]
7	7	[7]
8	8	[8]
9	9	[9]
10	10	[10]

Transport & Directions

English	Local	Say it
Where's a/the...?	Where's the...?	[wheres the]
What's the address?	Where's the address?	[wheres the address]
Can you show me (on the map)?	Can you show me (on the map)?	[can yuh show me (on the map)]
When's the next (bus)?	When's the next (bus)?	[whens the next (bus)]
A ticket (to ....)	A ticket (to ....)	[a ticket (to)]

History of Maah Daah Hey Trail

Native American Heritage

The Maah Daah Hey Trail winds through lands that were once home to the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara tribes. These tribes have a rich history that dates back thousands of years, with archaeological evidence of their settlements found throughout the region. The name 'Maah Daah Hey' itself is derived from the Mandan language, meaning 'an area that has been or will be around for a long time.' The trail provides a glimpse into the cultural and spiritual life of these tribes, who relied on the natural resources of the Badlands for survival.

The Lewis and Clark Expedition

In the early 1800s, the Maah Daah Hey region was traversed by the Lewis and Clark Expedition. The explorers documented the landscape and indigenous peoples, providing some of the first recorded descriptions of the area. Their journey through the Badlands added to the United States' understanding of the western territories and paved the way for future exploration and settlement.

The Arrival of the Northern Pacific Railway

The late 19th century saw the arrival of the Northern Pacific Railway, which significantly impacted the development of the Maah Daah Hey region. The railway brought settlers, commerce, and industry to the area, transforming the landscape and economy. The construction of the railway also led to conflicts with the native tribes, who were gradually displaced from their ancestral lands.

Theodore Roosevelt and the Badlands

Theodore Roosevelt's connection to the Maah Daah Hey Trail is a significant part of its history. After suffering personal tragedies, Roosevelt retreated to the Badlands in the 1880s, where he found solace and inspiration. His experiences in the rugged terrain influenced his conservation policies as President of the United States. The Theodore Roosevelt National Park, through which parts of the Maah Daah Hey Trail run, stands as a testament to his enduring legacy.

The Establishment of the Maah Daah Hey Trail

The Maah Daah Hey Trail was officially established in 1999, thanks to the collaborative efforts of local communities, government agencies, and conservation groups. The trail was designed to promote outdoor recreation while preserving the natural beauty and historical significance of the Badlands. Stretching over 140 miles, it connects the North and South units of Theodore Roosevelt National Park and offers hikers, bikers, and horseback riders an immersive experience in the landscape's diverse ecosystems.

Cultural and Recreational Significance Today

Today, the Maah Daah Hey Trail is a cultural and recreational treasure. It hosts various events, such as the Maah Daah Hey 100 mountain bike race and the Maah Daah Hey Trail Run, attracting outdoor enthusiasts from around the world. The trail also serves as a living museum, where visitors can learn about the history, geology, and ecology of the North Dakota Badlands. The ongoing efforts to maintain and protect the trail ensure that it remains a vital part of the region's heritage.