Autumn is officially here, and its time to see the fall colors in the Badlands.
By the end of September, the trees are about 50% turned to fall colors.
We took an afternoon this week to look down on the Little Missouri River. That’s where small trees and shrubs, cottonwood, green ash and some aspens wear their fall yellow. The north unit of the Theodore Roosevelt National Park displays excellent views in the Badlands river bottom.
It’s even still warm enough for motorcyclists to tour the National Park.
It is still motorcycle touring weather as these two riders from Minnesota tour the scenic drive in the north unit of the Theodore Roosevelt National Park.
Good weather is expected all week. That makes next weekend, the last weekend of the month to be a good time to head north.
The air is crisp and clear, the views are legendary, and the season is short. So, like they say, “just do it.”
Click here for 6 suggestions where you can see fall colors in the Badlands.
Keep your head covered this fall with a trademark Beautiful Badlands cap like one of these
Beautiful Badlands ND caps
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I see fall colors in the Badlands?
The most treed area of the Badlands is along the Little Missouri River. Two of the best places to see the Little Missouri River from above is the north unit of the Theodore Roosevelt National Park near Watford City, or at the Elkhorn Ranch unit north of Sentinel Butte.
What trees turn colors in the Badlands?
Most of the trees are cottonwood or ash. Some aspens are present, too. They turn yellow.
Where is a pretty fall drive to see fall colors in the Badlands?
The scenic drive in either the north unit or the south unit of the Theodore Roosevelt National Park display the fall colors in the Badlands.
After you’ve toured the fall colors in the Badlands, stop in Watford City for food, fuel and fun.
