MANDAN, ND – Today, state and local officials along with private partners gathered to celebrate the official ribbon cutting for the newly expanded Roughrider Trail, an exciting project that enhances outdoor access and strengthens North Dakota’s reputation as a premier destination for recreation and tourism.
The Roughrider Trail, located south of Mandan along Highway 1806, has been extended by nearly five miles, creating a seamless connection between Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park and Fort Rice Campground. The trail now offers users more than 22 miles of scenic, historic outdoor pathway—passing through breathtaking prairie vistas, alongside Fort Rice historic sites, and near amenities like the Little Heart Bottoms shooting range.
"This expansion gives families more ways to enjoy North Dakota’s natural beauty," said Governor Kelly Armstrong during the ceremony. "And it’s about growing something even more important: a culture of outdoor recreation and tourism that fuels our economy and enhances our quality of life."
The project also supports North Dakota’s broader strategy of strengthening outdoor recreation opportunities through collaboration and strategic investment through its Office of Outdoor Recreation which was launched in 2024. The expansion was made possible through partnerships between the North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department (NDPRD), North Dakota Game and Fish Department, Morton County Parks, the State Historical Society, and private business partners.
"I’m very proud of what we’ve accomplished here with the Roughrider Trail expansion," said Cody Schulz, Director of the North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department. "We’re not just extending a trail – we’re building momentum. It’s about making outdoor spaces more inviting, more accessible, and more impactful for everyone."
The trail now features a new trailhead and expanded parking at Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park, providing easy access for OHV riders. Visitors can begin their adventure directly from the convenient parking area and connect to miles of maintained trail.
Outdoor recreation continues to be a major driver of North Dakota’s economy, contributing $1.6 billion to the state’s economy in 2023 alone. Expanding trail systems like the Roughrider Trail supports not only tourism and recreation but also the state’s commitment to improving quality of life for all North Dakotans.
"This is about families riding side-by-sides together, kids seeing wildlife for the first time, and building memories that last a lifetime," said Director Schulz.
The Roughrider Trail was originally part of the Northern Pacific Railroad corridor. In 1979, the State Highway Department deeded this land to North Dakota Parks and Recreation to create the trail visitors enjoy today. The land itself is jointly held by three partners: North Dakota Parks and Recreation, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and the North Dakota Department of Transportation.
Trail users are encouraged to download the OuterSpatial app, which provides access to more than 2,200 miles of statewide trails and highlights special events and points of interest within North Dakota’s state parks. The app is free to download for iOS and Android through the App Store and Google Play. It offers hiking challenges, an interactive social platform, and valuable insights into outdoor recreation opportunities across North Dakota.
The mission of the North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department is to enrich generations through experiences that connect people and places.