One Of The Longest Hiking Trails In The U.S. Starts In North Dakota

North Dakota has something very cool hidden amongst the trees and across the prairies.

Yup, our state is the starting point for one of the longest trails in the country.

North Country National Scenic Trail

According to North Dakota Game and Fish, the hiking trail spans more than 4,600 miles and is twice the length of the Appalachian Trail. Once it is finished, it will be the longest hiking trail in the country, according to NPCA. 

It runs through eight states, from Lake Sakakawea State Park to the Appalachian Green Mountain Trail in Vermont. 460 miles of the trail runs through North Dakota.

Check out this map, outlining the entire trail.

The trail's other endpoint is in Crown Point, New York.

The oldest portion of the trail in North Dakota is in the Sheyenne River Valley.

The trail has been around since 1980 and was labeled a National Scenic Route by the United States Congress. There are only 11 National Scenic Trails in the country. It wasn't until 2023 that this trail became part of the National Park System.

Hikers, snowshoers, cross-country skiers, cyclists, and equestrians can enjoy the trail.

According to the source, some parts of this trail are walking paths, others it's a grave road or a stretch of asphalt. Some parts of this trail run through parks and campgrounds.

Fun Fact: The longest hiking trail in the country is the American Discovery Trail, according to NCPA. 

How Is It Done?

You may be wondering how we maintain such a trail, especially one running across the country. The source explains that people from different NCT chapters volunteer to help take care of the trail.

They put up markers, mow, and do whatever is necessary to clear the trail.

The chapter that takes care of the trail throughout North Dakota is called The Dakota Prairie Chapter. 

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