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This portion of the NCT goes through sandhills and open prairie


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Map Key

13.5

Miles

21.8

KM

100%

Runnable

1,091' 333 m

High

1,022' 311 m

Low

407' 124 m

Up

384' 117 m

Down

1%

Avg Grade (1°)

6%

Max Grade (4°)

Dogs Off-leash

Features Birding · Fall Colors · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Unofficially closed to running during deer rifle season. Visit gf.nd.gov/hunting for details on the season.

Runner Notes

The trail is suitable for trail running but it does contain soft sandy stretches and ample cowpies.

Description

Start at the east trailhead on CR-23, which is located next to the Jorgen's Hollow Campground (tentsides, water pump, and pit toilets). From the trailhead, take the short spur to the Oak Leaf / North Country Trail and follow the signs for the NCT. It loops to the south and crosses the road and then goes predominantly west and south through a mix of oak savanna and open prairie. One highlight is the Iron Springs Creek bridge which is a good spot to sit in the shade and enjoy a picnic.

There are a few places where it is possible to get lost due to cow trails leading off from the main trail. Make sure the trail you're following has the angle-topped wooden posts with the NCT emblem.

When you get to the other trailhead on CR-53, turn around and go back or continue on to the west trailhead (another 14 miles).

Flora & Fauna

Look for prairie wildflowers and you'll enjoy the sights of many birds and animals.

Contacts

Shared By:

Matthew Davis

Trail Ratings

  4.0 from 5 votes

#11498

Overall
  4.0 from 5 votes
5 Star
20%
4 Star
60%
3 Star
20%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Trail Rankings

#30

in North Dakota

#11,498

Overall
8 Views Last Month
2,473 Since Jul 1, 2015
Easy/Intermediate Easy/Intermediate

40%
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60%
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Photos

The NCT crosses this bridge over Iron Springs Creek.
Oct 7, 2016 near Sheldon, ND
Sunset over the prairie covered sandhills.
Oct 7, 2016 near Sheldon, ND
The gravel trail tread along with the angle-topped wooden marker post.
Oct 7, 2016 near Sheldon, ND
The NCT passes through an open prairie area with the swing gate taking hikers through the fence.  Notice the herd of cows?
Oct 7, 2016 near Sheldon, ND
You can see the sandhill landscape in this photo.
Oct 7, 2016 near Sheldon, ND
The trail is mowed by volunteers with a walk-behind brush mower.
Oct 7, 2016 near Sheldon, ND

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Weather


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