Painted Canyon Overlook, North Dakota, United States

5FancyFree55 5:00 PM Nov 6, 2020

Wonderful Staff, Wonderful Views
Last time I drove through North Dakota was 1977, when I saw the painted canyons only from a distance. So during our summer 2020 road trip, we made it a point to add North Dakota to the route. Upon arriving at Theodore Roosevelt National Park, we stopped first at the overlook and were pleased to find the South Unit visitor center open. Some of the national parks we visited still had shuttered VCs, while others wouldn't allow admission unless you hid behind a mask. The staff at this visitor center was warm and accommodating, as well as very informative. A nice variety of gifts and souvenirs were available for sale here. There is no admission fee for the overlook section of the park. The views are only a short walk from the visitor center, and the vistas are exquisite. I learned some interesting details about the topography, and how the canyons are formed by "slumping." Strollers and wheelchairs are easily accommodated. We spent time at the overlook gawking and taking pics before heading on down the highway to the park's southwest branch visitor center.

5Rebecca L 5:00 PM Jun 1, 2022

Beautiful Views
If you only have time to do one thing in TR National Park, stop by Painted Canyon for stunning views. There is a visitor center and restrooms in the parking lot. I also recommend you take the 1.0-mile loop trail to hike down into the canyon.