Pets allowed
Allowed
Elevation Gain
402.00 ft (122.53 m)
Trail type
There-and-back
Distance
10.50 mi (16.90 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

The great plains were nearly obliterated as much of the American West was plowed under, but in a few places this unique landscape was preserved for the enjoyment of outdoor explorers. Sheyenne National Grasslands represents just one of these places, and it is a trip into the past when Americans pushed westward across open prairie into unknwon territory. As you walk the trail out to Mirror Pond, you'll get wide open vistas with the grass gently swishing in the wind as a backdrop. Small stands of gnarled burr oak dot the landscape and provide some relief from the sun and heat. Prairie chickens and white tail deer make up most of the wildlife, but keep an ear out for howling coyotes come sundown. If you've never thought about backpacking accross a grassland, maybe it's time you did.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Fall

Congestion

Low

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Days

2

Pros

Unique Landscape. Wildlife. Wildflowers

Cons

Difficult Access to Water

Trailhead Elevation

1,047.00 ft (319.13 m)

Highest point

1,754.00 ft (534.62 m)

Features

Near lake or river
Backcountry camping
Wildlife
Family friendly
Big vistas
Horseback riding
Wildflowers
Bird watching

Typically multi-day

Yes

Suitable for

Horseback

Permit required

No

Location

Nearby Lodging + Camping

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