Discover Burleigh County: Nature, Trails and History

Burleigh County combines wildlife watching, varied trails and impressive reminders of North Dakota's history. When planning your trip, you can choose between experiences in protected areas, wildlife observation, cycling and hiking routes, and cultural sites. This makes it possible to choose a holiday apartment or holiday home that is well suited to your trip's intended focus.

Nature experiences among lakes, birds and wildflowers

Florence Lake National Wildlife Refuge is located in northern Burleigh County. It provides habitat for the breeding and migration of various migratory bird species. During the fall migration, the area attracts significant numbers of waterfowl. Anyone who enjoys birdwatching or wants to get to know the natural side of the region can include this protected area as an important focus in their trip planning.

Long Lake National Wildlife Refuge also offers a range of opportunities. In spring, summer and fall, you can observe birds and wildflowers there. The offerings also include wildlife and plant observation, informational resources, environmental education and photography. A one-mile hiking trail runs between Lake Unit 2 and Unit 2 Marsh. Depending on water levels, the area offers seasonal opportunities to observe shorebirds and waterfowl. The current water level is therefore a relevant factor when planning your day.

Trails for cycling, hiking and wildlife watching

Burleigh County offers several clearly distinct trail experiences. McDowell Dam Recreation Area has a 2.4-mile unpaved loop for cycling and hiking. The Hay Creek Trail, by contrast, is a five-mile paved community trail with opportunities for wildlife observation. In addition, the Bismarck Parks and Recreation District manages more than 85 miles of trails in Bismarck and Burleigh County.

The different surfaces and trail lengths help you plan your trip's daily rhythm more deliberately. A shorter loop, a longer paved trail or combining wildlife watching with physical activity can each create a different focus. When searching for accommodation in Burleigh County, it is therefore worth deciding first whether trails, wildlife observation or cultural destinations should account for the largest share of your trip.

History and special experiences

The North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum presents the history of North Dakota in four galleries. Thousands of artifacts and specimens, high-tech displays and interactive exhibits make the historical topics accessible in a variety of ways. For families who want to combine different interests, a day at the museum can provide an exciting contrast to the nature experiences.

At Double Ditch, you can encounter an old Mandan village with earth lodges that was inhabited for nearly 300 years. Evidence of four concentric ditches has also been preserved. Former Governors' Mansion State Historic Site consists of a restored Victorian residence and a carriage house. Room exhibits cover the restoration, changes in architectural style and furniture used by several governors.

Dakota Zoo also offers a distinct experience. The facility covers 90 acres and is home to around 400 mammals, birds, reptiles and fish from 125 species. Wild Happenings include live demonstrations of animal training, interactive encounters and dynamic enrichment activities for animals. Those traveling with children and wanting to discover animals together will find another opportunity here for an enjoyable activity.

Choosing the right base for your trip

A holiday apartment in Burleigh County is particularly well suited to your plans if you want to combine nature, culture and active days. Florence Lake National Wildlife Refuge and Long Lake National Wildlife Refuge are the main attractions for bird and wildflower observation. Those planning to cycle or hike can compare the routes at McDowell Dam and along the Hay Creek Trail. Culture enthusiasts can focus on the Heritage Center, Double Ditch or Former Governors' Mansion State Historic Site.

If fishing is part of your travel plans, you can consider the lower sections of Apple Creek. Northern pike, walleye, crappie and catfish are caught there; there is no boat ramp. This specific limitation is just as important when choosing your activities as the decision between wildlife watching, trails, animal experiences and history. You can also include Menoken in your further trip planning.

For additional travel ideas, you can also explore Stutsman, Ramsey, Morton County, Cavalier County, Mckenzie County and Williams County.

For the broader travel overview: North Dakota.