National Parks Journal
Photo: NPS Photo / Mark Meyers
Theodore Roosevelt National Park
When Theodore Roosevelt came to Dakota Territory to hunt bison in 1883, he was a skinny, young, spectacled dude from New York. He could not have imagined how his adventure in this remote and unfamiliar place would forever alter the course of the nation. The rugged landscape and strenuous life that TR experienced here would help shape a conservation policy that we still benefit from today.
Entrance Fees
Activities
Top Hikes
0.4 mi · out & back
Short trail to the best views of the Little Missouri River in the park. A ranger-recommended sunset location.
Starts at: Wind Canyon Trailhead (South Unit)
10.3 mi · loop
A remote backcountry loop in the park's northwest corner featuring petrified forests and wilderness solitude.
Starts at: Petrified Forest Trailhead (South Unit)
4.3 mi · loop
Climbs a grassy butte through multiple habitat types combining the nature trail with a more challenging ridgeline section.
Starts at: Caprock Coulee Trailhead (North Unit)
0.9 mi · out & back
Descends into a colorful badlands canyon for close-up views of rock layers and juniper-studded landscapes.
Starts at: Painted Canyon Visitor Center (South Unit)
Upcoming Events
Maltese Cross Cabin Tour
The Maltese Cross Cabin was Theodore Roosevelt’s first cabin in the North Dakota badlands. Join a ranger for a 15-20 minute tour of the cabin and learn how Roosevelt’s experiences here influenced the man he would become and his future presidency. This program is handicap accessible.
Maltese Cross Cabin Tour
Join a park ranger for a brief welcome chat exploring how Roosevelt’s experiences as a rancher, hunter, and outdoorsman in North Dakota helped shape the conservation ethic that later defined his presidency.
Best Time to Visit
Best time to visit: April
Pleasant weather with fewer crowds
Weather & Climate
In winter, some or all park roads may be closed due to snow.