Peaceful Valley Ranch
Historic ranch in Theodore Roosevelt National Park, offering wildlife viewing and adventurous river crossings.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Better wildlife viewing & comfort
Peaceful Valley Ranch
Best Time
Better wildlife viewing & comfort
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic ranch in Theodore Roosevelt National Park, offering wildlife viewing and adventurous river crossings.
"Thrill of a lifetime seeing bison, but be prepared for river crossings!"
🐾 Watch for Bison!
Bison are wild and roam freely. Maintain a safe distance and never approach them.
💧 River Crossing Preparedness
Trails may require crossing the Little Missouri River. Be ready for wet feet!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Ranch Buildings
Peaceful Valley Ranch
Explore the charming historic park buildings, offering a glimpse into the area's past.
Bison Sightings
Near Peaceful Valley Ranch
Witness majestic bison roaming freely in their natural habitat. Keep a safe distance!
Little Missouri River Crossing
Trails near Peaceful Valley Ranch
Experience an adventurous river crossing on the Little Missouri River during your hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Bison Encounters & River Crossings
Best Time for Wildlife & Comfort
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 Watch for Bison!
Bison are wild and roam freely. Maintain a safe distance and never approach them.
💧 River Crossing Preparedness
Trails may require crossing the Little Missouri River. Be ready for wet feet!
☀️ Beat the Heat
Mid-day can be very hot, especially in summer. Bring plenty of water and sun protection.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
Wear appropriate hiking shoes for uneven terrain and potential river crossings.
Theodore Roosevelt NP
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Watch for Bison!
Bison are wild and roam freely. Maintain a safe distance and never approach them.
💧 River Crossing Preparedness
Trails may require crossing the Little Missouri River. Be ready for wet feet!
☀️ Beat the Heat
Mid-day can be very hot, especially in summer. Bring plenty of water and sun protection.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
Wear appropriate hiking shoes for uneven terrain and potential river crossings.
🔭 Wildlife Viewing Tips
Early mornings and late afternoons are prime times for spotting bison and other wildlife.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Peaceful Valley Ranch for its stunning natural beauty, opportunities for wildlife viewing, and the chance to explore historic buildings. The adventurous river crossings and close encounters with bison are often highlighted as thrilling experiences. However, some find the river crossings more challenging than anticipated, and summer visits can be very hot with numerous grasshoppers.
"Ranger Brian said some bison had been scene around Peaceful Valley Ranch. We went for a hike crossing the Little Missouri. On the way back, about 20 bison were on the trail between us on the east shore of the river and the ranch.
We gave them lots of room and the bison moved on to cross the river. Thrill of a lifetime, but I was super relieved when the bison didn’t come our direction."
John Hoeppner
"Cool area, historic buildings. Be warned if you are hiking the trails then be prepared for a River Crossing of the Little Missouri. The maps are deceiving and show the trail going over the river, which I assumed was a bridge. There is no bridge! Hiked on 07/06/23 and the grasshoppers were out by the millions! Beautiful area. Bison nearby"
B
"Nice place to check out the historic park buildings and take a short walk to the Little Missouri River. It was pretty hot in mid-June when we visited, so be prepared."
David Lobree
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Peaceful Valley Ranch is located within Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Access is typically via the park's scenic drives. Check the National Park Service website for the most current road conditions and entry information.
Yes, you can drive to Peaceful Valley Ranch. It's a popular spot within the park, and parking is usually available, though it can fill up during peak times.
Specific driving directions will depend on your starting point within Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Use GPS or consult park maps upon arrival. The ranch is a key landmark in the South Unit.
While the park is best explored by car, some guided tours might offer access. However, for independent exploration, a vehicle is highly recommended.
Currently, there are no dedicated shuttle services directly to Peaceful Valley Ranch within the park. Visitors typically use their own vehicles.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Peaceful Valley Ranch is located within Theodore Roosevelt National Park, which requires an entrance fee. You'll need a valid park pass to enter.
The ranch itself is an historic site and generally accessible during park hours. However, specific programs or ranger-led activities may have set times. Check the NPS website for details.
While Peaceful Valley Ranch is a historic site, horseback riding opportunities are often available through concessions within Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Inquire with park services for current providers. [^seo_keywords]
The park occasionally hosts events like the Dakota Night Sky Festival or Junior Ranger programs that may be held at or near Peaceful Valley Ranch. Keep an eye on the park's event calendar.
While park entry has a fee, many ranger-led programs or Junior Ranger activities are free with park admission. Check the NPS website for specific program details.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Explore historic buildings, enjoy short walks to the Little Missouri River, and keep an eye out for bison. It's a great spot for photography and experiencing the badlands.
Yes, several trails originate from or pass near Peaceful Valley Ranch, including opportunities for river crossings. Be prepared for varied terrain.
Bison are frequently spotted in the vicinity. You might also see prairie dogs, wild horses, and various bird species.
Yes, families can enjoy exploring the historic site and looking for wildlife. The Junior Ranger program is also a great activity for kids.
Bring water, sunscreen, a hat, sturdy walking shoes, and insect repellent, especially during warmer months. Binoculars are great for wildlife viewing.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the historic ranch buildings, the scenic Little Missouri River, and of course, the majestic bison. The badlands landscape itself is incredibly photogenic.
Golden hour (early morning and late afternoon) offers the most dramatic light for landscape and wildlife photography.
Absolutely! Bison and other park wildlife are popular subjects. Remember to maintain a safe distance and use a zoom lens for close-ups.
General photography is allowed. However, drone usage is restricted in national parks. Always check park regulations before flying any aerial devices.
A versatile zoom lens is ideal for wildlife. A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive badlands scenery. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that some trails involve river crossings, which can be a fun adventure for kids, but ensure they have appropriate footwear. The historic buildings also offer a chance to spark their imagination about the past. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and be prepared for varying weather conditions.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Wildlife enthusiasts will find this area particularly rewarding, with frequent bison sightings and opportunities to observe other native fauna.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Wildlife Encounters at Peaceful Valley Ranch
Beyond bison, the area is home to other fascinating wildlife. Keep an eye out for prairie dogs in their bustling colonies, and you might even spot wild horses or various bird species native to the badlands. Early mornings and late afternoons are generally the best times for wildlife viewing, as animals are often more active during these cooler parts of the day.
Remember to bring binoculars for a closer look without disturbing the animals. The thrill of seeing these creatures in their natural habitat is a highlight for many visitors to Peaceful Valley Ranch.
Hiking and River Crossings
Popular trails might lead you through scenic meadows and along the riverbanks. The terrain can be varied, so wearing sturdy, comfortable hiking shoes is highly recommended.
When planning your hike, consider the weather. Summer can bring intense heat and swarms of grasshoppers, making early morning or late afternoon excursions more pleasant.
The Historic Significance of Peaceful Valley Ranch
These buildings serve as a focal point for understanding the park's namesake, Theodore Roosevelt, who himself ranched in this area. The ranch's preservation contributes to the park's mission of protecting and interpreting the natural and cultural resources of the North Dakota badlands.
While the ranch itself might not offer extensive amenities, its historical context adds a rich layer to any visit. It's a place where nature and history converge, offering a unique perspective on the American West.
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