Boicourt Overlook Trail
Experience breathtaking badlands vistas and potential wildlife sightings on this short, scenic trail in Theodore Roosevelt National Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light on badlands
Boicourt Overlook Trail
Best Time
Magical light on badlands
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience breathtaking badlands vistas and potential wildlife sightings on this short, scenic trail in Theodore Roosevelt National Park.
"Absolutely magical view of majestic creatures overlooking a herd of bison."
🌅 Golden Hour Magic
Visit at sunrise or sunset for breathtaking light and fewer people.
🐾 No Dogs Allowed
Leave your furry friends at home; this trail is not dog-friendly.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Badlands Views
South Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Unreal, expansive vistas of the North Dakota badlands. A must-see for any visitor.
Wildlife Encounters
Overlooking the trail
Magical views of bison and wild horses grazing below. Truly a majestic sight.
Accessible Scenic Path
Paved section of the trail
An easy, paved walk with benches, leading to an optional dirt path for a closer look.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Trail Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Golden Hour Magic
Visit at sunrise or sunset for breathtaking light and fewer people.
🐾 No Dogs Allowed
Leave your furry friends at home; this trail is not dog-friendly.
💧 Bring Water
Even for a short hike, stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
🥾 Trail Options
Enjoy the paved path or venture onto the dirt path for a slightly more adventurous climb.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Golden Hour Magic
Visit at sunrise or sunset for breathtaking light and fewer people.
🐾 No Dogs Allowed
Leave your furry friends at home; this trail is not dog-friendly.
💧 Bring Water
Even for a short hike, stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
🥾 Trail Options
Enjoy the paved path or venture onto the dirt path for a slightly more adventurous climb.
🚗 Limited Parking
The pull-off accommodates about 7 cars, so arrive early or be patient.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the 'magical' and 'unreal' views at Boicourt Overlook Trail, calling it one of the best spots in the park's south unit. The chance to see bison and wild horses from the overlook is a major highlight, making it a must-visit for its stunning scenery and wildlife encounters. Some note the limited parking and that dogs are not allowed.
"Short out and back hike to one of the best views in the south unit of the park. We were lucky enough that it was overlooking a herd of bison. Absolutely magical view of majestic creatures."
Andrew Barch
"A short hike but absolutely worth it - some of the best views in the south end of the park!"
Ryan Smith
"It’s a small but mighty trail. It should take you 10minutes to finish but make time to really take in the beauty this trail has to offer. Not dog friendly:/"
Dayana Gomez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Boicourt Overlook Trail is located in the South Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota. Access is via the scenic park road. There's a pull-off with parking for about 7 vehicles.
Yes, it's about halfway through the park's south unit and clearly marked with a pull-off area.
The South Unit is accessible from I-94 near Medora, North Dakota. The North Unit is near Watford City.
Yes, there is an entrance fee for Theodore Roosevelt National Park. You can purchase passes at the visitor centers or online.
The park is open year-round, but winter conditions can make roads icy and trails challenging. Always check park conditions before visiting in winter.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Boicourt Overlook Trail is within Theodore Roosevelt National Park, which requires an entrance fee. No separate ticket is needed for the trail itself.
The park is generally open 24 hours a day, but visitor centers have specific hours. The trails are accessible during daylight hours.
Entrance fees vary by vehicle type and pass duration. Check the official National Park Service website for current pricing.
Yes, valid America the Beautiful passes are accepted for entry into Theodore Roosevelt National Park.
Visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon, especially during the golden hours, will help you avoid the largest crowds.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The paved portion is very short, taking about 10 minutes. An optional dirt path extension adds a bit more distance.
Expect stunning, panoramic views of the North Dakota badlands. It's considered one of the best viewpoints in the park's south unit.
The paved section is wide and fairly easy, with benches for resting. The optional dirt path is a bit more challenging.
Visitors often report seeing bison and wild horses from this overlook, making it a magical experience.
Restroom facilities are typically available at nearby visitor centers or picnic areas within the park.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, around sunrise and sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for capturing the badlands scenery and wildlife.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes, and a telephoto lens is useful for wildlife photography.
The entire overlook provides excellent vantage points. The paved path offers accessible spots, while the dirt path leads to slightly elevated views.
Drone usage is restricted in all National Parks, including Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Check NPS regulations for specific rules.
The overlook provides a good elevated view. Be patient and wait for bison to be in a photogenic position, always maintaining a safe distance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the main paved path is short and easy, the optional dirt path offers a bit more adventure for older kids who want to explore a little further. Pack snacks and water, as amenities can be spread out within the park. The short duration of the trail means it won't tire out younger children, leaving plenty of energy for other park activities.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
If you're looking for a bit more of a challenge, the dirt path extension provides a slightly more rugged experience. Solo hikers can appreciate the unobstructed views and the opportunity for quiet contemplation. Remember to always let someone know your itinerary when traveling solo and be aware of park safety guidelines.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Theodore Roosevelt National Park
The South Unit, where Boicourt Overlook Trail is located, is particularly popular for its accessibility and the chance to see bison herds roaming freely. The scenic loop drive winds through the heart of the badlands, offering numerous pull-offs and short hikes like Boicourt. It's a place where you can truly feel the wildness of the American West. Many visitors combine a visit to Boicourt Overlook with other popular spots in the South Unit, such as Painted Canyon and the Maltese Cross Cabin.
Beyond the overlooks, TRNP offers a variety of activities, including longer hiking trails, scenic drives, and opportunities for stargazing. The park's history is deeply intertwined with Theodore Roosevelt's own experiences as a rancher, and visiting sites like his Maltese Cross Cabin provides a tangible connection to the past. Whether you're seeking breathtaking views, wildlife encounters, or a dose of American history, Theodore Roosevelt National Park delivers an unforgettable experience.
The Magic of Wildlife Viewing
In addition to bison, wild horses also roam the park and can sometimes be spotted from Boicourt Overlook. Observing these free-roaming equines against the backdrop of the badlands is a photographer's dream. Remember to always maintain a safe and respectful distance from all wildlife. Never feed the animals, and be aware of your surroundings.
Best times for wildlife viewing at Boicourt Overlook are typically during the cooler parts of the day – early mornings and late afternoons. During these times, animals are more active as they forage for food. The soft light of sunrise and sunset also enhances the photographic opportunities, making these periods ideal for both viewing and capturing stunning images.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit