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A scenic 2-mile loop that takes in the western terminus and views of Lake Sakakawea and Garrison Dam


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Map Key

2.3

Miles

3.8

KM

98%

Runnable

1,935' 590 m

High

1,849' 564 m

Low

161' 49 m

Up

160' 49 m

Down

3%

Avg Grade (1°)

10%

Max Grade (6°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Fall Colors · Lake · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Overview

This route overlooks the immense Garrison Dam and Lake Sakakawea and traverses a diversity of habitats.

Need to Know

Park entrance fees apply.

Runner Notes

This trail is suitable for trail running.

Description

Enjoy the last (or first) segment of the 4,600 mile North Country National Scenic Trail (NCT) in this 2.5-mile figure eight loop within Lake Sakakawea State Park. Follow the NCT markings on your way out and then follow the Shoreline Trail and Overlook Trail on your return. The run features a mowed grass trail tread that can be steep in places.

While out on the trail, you'll be treated to amazing views out onto Lake Sakakawea, an impoundment of the Missouri River created by Garrison Dam. This Army Corps of Engineers dam is the 5th largest earthen dam in the entire world.

Learn more about the Park here and check out the Park Trail Map here.

Flora & Fauna

The mixture of rolling prairie, forested ravines, and planted shelterbelts create a diversity of habitats. You will most likely see pheasants and deer and possibly glimpse a coyote.

Contacts

Shared By:

Matthew Davis

Trail Ratings

  4.5 from 2 votes

#3154

Overall
  4.5 from 2 votes
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Recommended Route Rankings

#12

in North Dakota

#3,154

Overall
2 Views Last Month
388 Since Sep 2, 2016
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Photos

The western terminus marker for the North Country National Scenic Trail.
Sep 2, 2016 near Garrison, ND
The view of Lake Sakakawea from along the Shoreline Trail.
Sep 2, 2016 near Garrison, ND
The park's diverse landscape includes prairie, shrublands, and forested ravines.
Sep 2, 2016 near Garrison, ND
The trails are well signed.
Sep 2, 2016 near Garrison, ND
The white posts with the white/blue triangle mark the North Country Trail. For westbound NCT travelers, this is the end.
Sep 2, 2016 near Garrison, ND

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