Welcome to the Theodore Roosevelt Tour
Explore Theodore Roosevelt National Park with this self-guided driving tour. Start at Maltese Cross Cabin, where Roosevelt once lived, then drive to Painted Canyon Overlook for breathtaking views. Next, visit Prairie Dog Metropolis to observe these lively animals in their habitat. Conclude with Bison of the Badlands, where the iconic bison roam freely. Dive into history and nature on this unforgettable journey!
About the Tour
Kick off your journey at the South Unit Visitor Center, where you’ll get acquainted with the park’s layout and history. Next, visit Maltese Cross Cabin, Theodore Roosevelt’s first home in the Dakotas, which offers a unique glimpse into his life and conservation efforts.
Continue to Medora Overlook and Teddy’s Birds for spectacular views and birdwatching opportunities, followed by a stop at Prairie Dog Metropolis, where you can watch these energetic creatures at play. Skyline Vista provides a perfect spot for panoramic photographs, and the Flora and Forests section highlights the region’s natural vegetation.
Discover the park’s ancient past at the Gargantuan Glaciers and Ancient Inhabitants exhibits, and feel the thrill of history at Scoria Point Overlook. Reflect on Teddy Roosevelt’s formative experiences in the Badlands at sites commemorating his first visit and healing. Explore the narratives of local figures Sylvane Ferris & Bill Merrifield, and engage with tales of Roosevelt’s Bar Fight and other lively stories along the Old East Entrance Trail and Coal Vein Nature Trail.
Delve into the dramatic history of the Marquis de Morès, relive the tales of The Boat Thieves, and follow the events of The Trial of the Marquis. Trek the Boicourt Overlook Trail for stunning views and visit Boicourt Overlook itself. Reflect on the historical journey at Leaving the Badlands and honor the memory of the bison that shape the park’s ecosystem at Bison of the Badlands.
Explore deeper narratives like Roosevelt’s Death, Honoring Roosevelt, and the prehistoric Dinosaur Fossils. Wander the Wild Canyon Trail and enjoy the serene flow of the Little Missouri River. Engage with the modern history of the North Dakota Oil Boom and conclude your tour at Peaceful Valley Ranch, where history and nature converge.
This tour, rich in narrative and scenic beauty, brings you closer to the spirit of one of America’s greatest conservationists, encapsulating both the grandeur and the detailed stories that make Theodore Roosevelt National Park a treasure of the American landscape.
Where To Start?
Starting Point Address: South Unit Visitor Center, Medora, ND 58645
How Does It Work?
- Once you book a tour, you’ll get a text/email with instructions.
- Download the app (while in good wifi/signal) and use your unique password to access your tours. If there are multiple versions or entrances for your tour, be sure to download all audio guides.
- To begin touring, go to the starting point and launch the app.
- The audio starts automatically once you reach the starting point. Stick to the tour route and speed limit for the best experience.
- Please note that no one will meet you at the starting point.
What You'll See
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Welcome
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Maltese Cross Cabin
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Medora Overlook
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Teddy’s Birds
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Prairie Dog Metropolis
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Flora and Forests
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Gargantuan Glaciers
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Ancient Inhabitants
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Scoria Point Overlook
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Teddy Roosevelt's First Visit
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Badlands Overlook
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Sylvane Ferris & Bill Merrifield
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Old East Entrance Trail
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Healing in the Badlands
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Roosevelt's Bar Fight
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Coal Vein Nature Trail
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Marquis de Morès
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Buck Hill Trail
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The Boat Thieves
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The Trial of the Marquis
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Leaving the Badlands
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Bison of the Badland
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Roosevelt's Death
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Dinosaur Fossils
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Wild Canyon Trail
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Little Missouri River
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The North Dakota Oil Boom
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Peaceful Valley Ranch
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Conclusion
Preview The Tour
Tour FAQs
The tour offers a fascinating journey through the life and legacy of President Theodore Roosevelt, showcasing his impact on conservation and American history.
The duration of the tour varies from 2 to 3 Hours
depending on the number of stops and attractions visited along the way.
No, there is no entrance fee or cost to access the tour route, as it is a self-guided experience open to all visitors.
Some must-see attractions include Theodore Roosevelt National Park, Roosevelt’s Maltese Cross Cabin, and the Elkhorn Ranch Site.
Yes, the tour route is pet-friendly, allowing travelers to bring their furry companions along for the journey.
Late spring to early fall is ideal for the best weather and wildlife viewing opportunities, but the park is open year-round for visitors to explore.
Yes, there are restroom facilities available at various stops within Theodore Roosevelt National Park for visitors’ convenience.
While there are limited dining options within the park, nearby towns like Medora offer restaurants and cafes for travelers to enjoy.
Visitors may encounter bison, elk, deer, prairie dogs, and a variety of bird species while exploring Theodore Roosevelt National Park.
Check the park’s event calendar for ranger-led programs, guided hikes, and special events happening during your visit to enhance your experience.
Visitors can explore interpretive exhibits, visitor centers, and historic sites within Theodore Roosevelt National Park to gain insights into the life and achievements of the 26th President of the United States.
Visitors should bring essentials such as water, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, a camera, and any snacks or picnic supplies they may need.