If you haven’t heard, North Dakota Tourism came out with some fantastic new ads promoting our great state. One of our favorite’s shows the Theodore Roosevelt National Park in all its majesty. The ad goes on to show many of our favorite land marks and gets everybody here in Medora excited about going on a hike.

The ad also got us thinking, what are some of the must see spots when you go to TRNP? After much debate, here is our top four:

1. The Maltese Cross Cabin
Originally located about seven miles south of Medora in the wooded bottom-lands of the Little Missouri, the Maltese Cross Ranch was one of the places Theodore Roosevelt stayed during his time in North Dakota. Now located at the TRNP South Unit Visitors Center, this is a must-see window into the past, and the President’s time in the Dakota Territory.

2. Wind Canyon
Enjoy hiking this nature trail alongside a wind-sculpted canyon as you climb to the best views of the Little Missouri River. It’s the Park Ranger’s best kept secret for watching sunsets.

3. Buck Hill
Located one mile north of Paddock Creek, Buck Hill is a great vantage point to see wild horses or roaming buffalo. It’s a steep trail, but it’s worth every step.

4. Petrified Forest
Located in the remote northwest corner of the South Unit, this hike takes you through ancient petrified forests and badlands wilderness. The loop includes the North and South Petrified Forest Trails as well as the Maah Daah Hey.

These are just four of the many great hikes TRNP has to offer. If biking is more your style, bicycles are welcome on the paved roads of TRNP, and for the more experienced rider, the Maah Daah Hey trail is an exciting ride. This summer get the family to put down their phones and pick up their feet by coming out to Medora and going on a hike or bike ride through the amazing Badlands.

Oh, here is that video that got everybody excited in the first place!