Theodore Roosevelt went to North Dakota to hunt and fell in love with the state—he operated two cattle ranches there. Theodore Roosevelt National Park, which includes part of the former U.S. president's Elkhorn Ranch, is a tribute to him and his love for the land. It is considered one of the state's best attractions.
The park is in the Badlands area of North Dakota. The exposed strata of the region show a variety of colors—yellow, red, brown and gray. At the South Unit visitors center, visitors can see the rustic Maltese Cross Ranch Cabin, where Roosevelt lived for a time.
Visitors should plan to stop at the visitors center on their way into the North Unit of the park before continuing on the scenic drive through the Badlands. The park has interpretive trails as well as facilities for camping, picnicking and horseback riding. Other activities include hiking, biking, canoeing and fishing. Wildlife in the area includes bison, prairie dogs, elk, mule deer and wild horses.
The park is open daily 24 hours year-round, and the entrance fee is US$25 per vehicle for a seven-day pass. Phone 701-623-4466. https://www.nps.gov/thro.
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