The south unit has a 35 mile scenic drive loop, however, construction has closed one section, resulting in a much longer, out and back drive. But first we stopped at the Painted Canyon Visitor Center so the kids could get their Jr Ranger badges, plus there’s a nice view from this location.
We started the scenic drive, and stopped to hike the Wind Canyon Trail for great views of a bend in the Little Missouri River.
One of our favorite parts was passing thru the Prairie Dog Towns! They are so cute and make a little squeaky, chipping noise. The funniest part was when a few would make a loud noise and they’d throw their arms in the air and bend backwards. Very entertaining creatures.
See all the burrows (dirt mounds)?
Views from the short but steep Buck Hill trail.
Last we hiked the Coal Vein Trail. The park is known for this black coal vein layer that shows along the sides of the mountains here. This coal layer can catch on fire and burn underneath the earth! There was a fire here that burned for 26 years (1951-1977)! During our visit we were notified of multiple coal veins actively burning and producing smoke in the park. We didn’t see any though. Here the kids are pointing at one of the coal layers.
This was such a fantastic park! The views were beautiful, hikes were fun and the animal encounters are memories that will stay with us forever. Until next time, North Dakota!
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