DAY 1: Outdoor Adventures in Minot 

Get caffeinated and take a hike

To begin exploring Hwy 2 outdoor adventures near Minot, stop by The Station: Urban Gourmet for coffee and breakfast to sip and savor. Afterward, grab your hiking boots or bike and head to the Bison Plant Trail. This scenic 2.3-mile loop is located just outside Minot near Highway 52. The trail takes just over an hour to complete on foot and welcomes dogs on a leash. It’s a great option for visitors looking to enjoy nature close to the city.

Cool off in the water 

Spend time kayaking on the river, with equipment rentals available through Minot Parks. Several access points are located near Rice Lake, Nelson Carlson Lake, and Lake Darling near the Upper Souris Wildlife Refuge. While on the water, visitors may spot local wildlife and enjoy a quieter side of North Dakota’s outdoors.

Discover the abundance of wildlife refuges

North Dakota has more wildlife refuges than any other state. Notably, six refuges are located within an hour and a half of Minot. These include Denbigh Experimental Forest, Audubon and J. Clark Salyer refuges, Upper Souris grasslands, and Lostwood National Wildlife Refuge. Lostwood is especially known for its high population of sharp-tailed grouse, making it a popular spot for birdwatching.

Get out and golf

Take in stunning views at Beowulf Golf Club. Swing the afternoon away at the 18 holes at Souris Valley Golf Course or the Vardon Golf Club. Additionally, Apple Grove Golf Course features Footgolf, a unique combination of soccer and golf, and one of only two such courses in North Dakota.

Stand under history

West of Minot, the Gassman Coulee Trestle stands as a striking historic landmark along Highway 2. Originally built in 1887, this railroad bridge is still in use today. Because of its size and setting, the trestle is especially popular for photography. Sunset is a favorite time to capture the dramatic prairie landscape.

DAY 2: Devils Lake

Early morning fishing on

Devils Lake is a major highlight of Highway 2 outdoor adventures. With more than 160,000 acres of water, it offers exceptional fishing opportunities. Whether fishing independently or hiring one of the area’s guide services, anglers have plenty of options. In addition, three accessible fishing piers make it easier for visitors who may have difficulty getting out on the water.

Lakeside dining at Proz Lakeside at the Cove

After time on the lake, Proz Lakeside at the Cove provides a relaxing spot to enjoy a meal with a view. The restaurant offers a full menu featuring burgers, pizza, fish, and more. Meanwhile, patio seating allows diners to take in scenic views of Devils Lake during warmer months.

Boating and time on the water

Boat rentals are widely available for those looking to spend more time on Devils Lake. Woodland Resort offers pontoons and other watercraft for half-day, full-day, or weekly rentals. All rentals include fuel, life jackets, and essential equipment.

Explore Grahams Island State Park 
A short drive from Devils Lake, Grahams Island State Park offers more than 1,100 acres of wooded land. The park features 130 plant species and is especially popular for birding. Visitors can enjoy hiking in spring and summer, cross-country skiing in winter, swimming at the beach, or fishing from the dock. 

Golf at Creel Bay Golf Course
Creel Bay Golf Course features an 18-hole layout along the shoreline, with water hazards, sand traps, and tree-lined fairways. For practice, Coyote Flats Driving Range is located just down the road.

DAY 3: Grand Forks Outdoor Experiences on Hwy 2

Stop for a light breakfast and specialty coffee at Urban Stampede.
Urban Stampede offers specialty coffee in a former saloon filled with character. Tin ceilings, dark wood accents, and a stone floor create a unique atmosphere. While visiting, guests can sip on freshly brewed coffee and browse the “World’s Smallest Art Gallery” and gift shop. 

Rent a bike and ride along the Red River of the North on the Greenway.
The Greenway is a 2,200-acre park system that lines the Red River and Red Lake River through Grand Forks and East Grand Forks. Visitors can hike, bike, paddle, birdwatch, or picnic along an extensive all-season trail network located in the heart of the two cities.

Enjoy the outdoors with lunch on the rooftop of Rhombus Guys Pizza
To round out a day outdoors, Rhombus Guys Pizza offers rooftop dining in downtown Grand Forks. The restaurant features two indoor levels and an open-air rooftop. In addition to dining, evening events like trivia, karaoke, live music, and games make it a lively spot to relax after a day of outdoor activity.