by ND Tourism
We’re heading to spring, so dust off the clubs, grab the gear and get ready to hit the road.
- Batter up. Two things are synonymous with spring: Sunshine and baseball. In North Dakota, you can enjoy a sunny day at the ballpark on a modest budget and without fighting big-city traffic. Collegiate summer basebell comes to the capital city. The Bismarck Larks have their home opener May 30 at Dakota Community Bank & Trust Field. The Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks minor league baseball team plays at Newman Outdoor Field. You might also catch a high school or amateur game near you. Make memories with your family at a game this year.
- Time ‘fore’ golf. Are you ready to correct that hook or get rid of your slice? Whether you seek an open fairway, plenty of trees, breathtaking views, or challenging bunkers, North Dakota has many great golf courses inviting you to hone your skills. Take your friends on the “Triple Golf Challenge,” or take a road trip and check off courses on the Lewis & Clark Golf Trail.
- Training time. It’s spring training for those interested in getting ready for athletic activities around the state. From the casual hiker to the hardcore competitor, North Dakota has a fitness adventure just for you. Cyclists are gearing up for road races, taking the scenic routes, and daring to take on the Maah Daah Hey Trail, while runners look forward to upcoming marathons and fun runs or extreme races.
- Ready to ride. Few things are as exhilarating as hopping onto a big two-wheeler, rolling the throttle, and rumbling out onto the prairie. The rumble of motorcycles on the open road is music to the ears of some. It means spring has sprung and people are revved up to get back on the roads and scenic byways. If riding across rivers, climbing hills, and getting downright dirty is more your style, there are plenty of places to do that in North Dakota too.
- For the birds. With 63 wildlife refuges and a location smack-dab in the middle of the Central Flyway, North Dakota is a top destination for millions of birds and a large number of birders, too. The action-packed spring migration season provides astounding opportunities to see birds in their natural habitat, boasting beautiful breeding plumage. For those interested in birding, stop by a North Dakota state park to get a bird checklist and information about upcoming birding events.
- Spring fishing. The spring fishing is heating up in North Dakota, and now is the perfect time to plan your trip. To make the planning easy, check out tourism’s Hunting and Fishing Guide or Spring Fishing edition of Dakota Country magazine. If you’re looking for the local angler’s perspective, read the updates on Fishing Buddy.com.
- For the campers. It’s time to make plans to enjoy North Dakota’s great outdoors. Hot spots on Lake Sakakawea such as Indian Hills Resort, Hazen Bay Recreation Area, and Dakota Waters Resort are taking reservations, as are hidden gems including Bayshore Resort and Marina on Lake Ashtabula or Beaver Creek Recreation Area near Linton. If adventure camping is what you seek, stay in a tipi at Fort Lincoln State Park, a yurt at Cross Ranch State Park, or sleep with the buffalo at Juniper Campground in Theodore Roosevelt National Park.
These are just a few ideas to help you enjoy spring and take an adventure through North Dakota. For more info, go to NDtourism.com or call 800-435-5663 or 701-328-2525.
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