You can make Bismarck to Theodore Roosevelt National Park in about 2 hours, but the people who love this drive never do it in one straight shot. At around 135 miles on I-94, it is short enough to start after breakfast and long enough to earn a night somewhere memorable where the wildlife is.
Open this route in XCRSNLeaving Bismarck
Aim to clear Bismarck before the morning rush, or after it, never in it. Fill the tank on the edge of town where prices usually drop, set the playlist, and settle in for the first 99 miles to Dickinson.
The headline stop on this route is Wild horses on the South Unit loop. Leave real time for it; it sets the tone for the whole trip.
Dickinson, the last stretch
Dickinson sits about 99 miles in. It makes a good spot to stretch, eat something that is not from a gas station, and swap drivers.
Nearby, Bison and prairie dog towns is worth the short detour if the day is going well.
Rolling into Theodore Roosevelt National Park
The final 36 miles always go faster than you expect. Save a little energy for Painted Canyon overlook; it is a fitting finish.
By the end you will have seen Wild horses on the South Unit loop, Bison and prairie dog towns and Painted Canyon overlook, and you will understand why this corridor is a classic.
When to go and how to pace it
One night is the sweet spot. Medora, ND is where most people stay, so book ahead on summer weekends.
Check live gas prices along I-94 before you go; they can swing a lot from one state or county to the next. XCRSN prices every leg for your exact car.
