Did you know that there are, quite literally, hundreds of miles of hiking trails in North Dakota? It’s true – and thanks to our fascinating and diverse landscape, it seems like no matter where you go you’re bound to discover something amazing. Take, for example, this stunning and easy trail we found near Bismarck at the McDowell Dam Recreation Area. This family-friendly lake hike in North Dakota is an amazing example of a short, sweet, and scenic hike, and we think the whole fam will adore it. Just wait until you see that sparkling water!

The McDowell Dam Recreation Area is so much more than just a lake hike.

Travis Praus/AllTrails It IS a recreation area, after all, and believe us when we say there is plenty to do.

We recommend hitting the trail first to get an idea of the general awesomeness that is this area, and the good news is it’s a short, sweet, and easy trail that offers amazing views of the whole park.

Travis Praus/AllTrails Follow the McDowell Dam Loop Trail for the entire 2.7 miles, or wander off at various points to do some fun stuff like fishing, boating, or picnicking.

…or do both. Both are good.

Travis Praus/AllTrails The park is open year-round from sunrise to sunset, and despite its proximity to the city, it’s a peaceful place of quiet respite where you’re unlikely to encounter other hikers - especially if you arrive early.

Few things are as quieting for the soul as a still morning beside a sparkling lake.

Gadi Giladi/AllTrails Although this trail is a delight for the whole family (even the small ones), it’s also an excellent option for some me-time in the event you want to go somewhere you can gather your thoughts without many external distractions.

Should you decide you’d like to go out on the water, but you don’t have the tools to do so, no worries - from Memorial Day weekend until Labor Day weekend, you can rent equipment like paddleboats, paddle boards, kayaks, and canoes.

Gadi Giladi/AllTrails Best of all, it’s affordable - hiking the trail is free, and equipment rentals are all under $15.

And if you get the feeling you never want to leave (we get it), you can camp here as well.

Gadi Giladi/AllTrails The possibilities are only as limited as your imagination. Imagine the adventures you could have thanks to just one beautiful lakeside hiking trail.

For more information about McDowell Dam Recreation Area, visit the official Bismarck Parks and Recreation District website.

Travis Praus/AllTrails

It IS a recreation area, after all, and believe us when we say there is plenty to do.

Follow the McDowell Dam Loop Trail for the entire 2.7 miles, or wander off at various points to do some fun stuff like fishing, boating, or picnicking.

The park is open year-round from sunrise to sunset, and despite its proximity to the city, it’s a peaceful place of quiet respite where you’re unlikely to encounter other hikers - especially if you arrive early.

Gadi Giladi/AllTrails

Although this trail is a delight for the whole family (even the small ones), it’s also an excellent option for some me-time in the event you want to go somewhere you can gather your thoughts without many external distractions.

Best of all, it’s affordable - hiking the trail is free, and equipment rentals are all under $15.

The possibilities are only as limited as your imagination. Imagine the adventures you could have thanks to just one beautiful lakeside hiking trail.

Need more amazing family-friendly hikes in North Dakota? Check out the best hikes in North Dakota under five miles long.

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Address: McDowell Dam Recreation Area, 1951 93rd St NE, Bismarck, ND 58501, USA