While snow makes others huddle by the fire and under quilted blankets, North Dakotans know a blanket of snow means it’s time to get outside and have some fun. Whether you’re just visiting or a native of the state, experiencing the fun of winter sports is a unique experience you have to try. The weather here is excellent for sports that aren’t readily available elsewhere. You’ll have fun in the snow if you’re new to these sports or are an experienced winter-sports participant.
Read on for our list of North Dakota winter sports to challenge yourself and hone your skills.
Ice Fishing
Anglers from all over visit North Dakota for excellent ice fishing opportunities. Although some prefer to hang up their rods and pack away the tackle boxes for another year, others drill holes in the ice and continue luring the fish with some quality bait. Some keep things simple with a hole and bucket, while many of their counterparts are more adventurous and build tents, or elaborate ice houses, complete with heating, food, drink, and cable.
You can set up an ice house with a simple tarp and other material, or you can invest in something more permanent. Although you always risk a slight melt and refreeze — causing your shack to be frozen in place — you can opt for something a little more versatile and collapsible, allowing you to jump from lake to lake for prime fishing.
A great place for ice fishing in North Dakota is Devil’s Lake. Known for having jumbo yellow perch and white bass in the winter, this spot features amenities such as shore fishing piers, picnic shelters, security lights, and primitive camping areas. One fine attraction is their fish cleaning station, available year-round and free for public use. You’ll find it on Highway 20 South, by Ed’s Bait Shop. Stop in at Ed’s for the entry code. The station is heated in the winter, cooled in the summer, and complete with accessible bathrooms and 24-hour surveillance.
Lake Sakakawea is another awesome location for ice fishing. Fishers will rejoice in catching 15-20 inch walleye and pike fish. Particularly at this location, pikes are maturing and expected to reach at least 15 pounds in 2021. What’s more, Lake Sakakawea is a prime location for anglers interested in darkhouse spearfishing because of the pike population.
After your ice fishing expedition, contact our detailing center for some maintenance on your vehicle to get rid of all the road salt and dirt accumulated on the exterior and keep the interior fresh. Cleaning these impurities will prolong the life of your vehicle.
Winter Hiking
Granted, the weather conditions in winter don’t seem conducive to a hike. But with some preparation and reliable equipment, you’ll discover a winter hike is wonderful exercise and lets hikers see some wildlife and fauna not available other times of the year. The trio of the North Dakota trail systems, bright blue sky, and snow-covered ground create a wonderful retreat for those looking to get away from the rush of life and reconnect with nature. The shorter days make daylight much more precious and help the adventurous souls seize the moment.
With just some snowshoes or solid pair of hiking boots, get ready to explore Theodore Roosevelt National Park, which is a phenomenal hiking destination. Hiking trails like the Maah Daah Hey Trail are ideal for inexperienced hikers looking to catch a glimpse of some bison grazing, horses trotting in the grass, or eagles soaring in the sky. More than the warmer conditions, the harsh winter climate forces wildlife to cluster near resources and creates the perfect opportunity for nature enthusiasts to see wildlife in more accessible areas.
Downhill Skiing
North Dakota offers some safe options for optimal slopes and downhill skiing action that aren’t as intimidating as the Rocky Mountains of other places. Bottineau Winter Park, known as “the Jewel Above the Prairie,” is a picturesque landscape located in the Turtle Mountains. It is a family-friendly winter resort that offers a slew of opportunities for people of all ages to enjoy some winter sports.
The park — which is particularly suited for skiing — offers a full-service rental shop, with staff ready to guide you and recommend the right equipment for a successful excursion. After getting your supplies, you’ll find six lifts ready to carry you to the top of the slopes so you can glide your way down one of eight trails. Take your camera and snap some amazing photos of the Turtle Mountain Region capped with snow. If skiing isn’t your thing, you can also opt for some fun-filled tubing at the resort.
Prices vary depending on your sport of choice. You can expect to pay $20 per tubing rider, with admission for children under 5 free if riding with a guardian. The Bottineau offers daily ticket rates for guests, starting at $20 for children, $30 for teens, and $40 for adults. A single adult season pass is $305, while a family season pass is $650. Also, the resort provides discounts for senior citizens and has other packages depending on your needs. Because prices for season passes increase after October 31, we suggest you get yours soon.
You’ll find this active winter destination at 1 Winter Park Road, Bottineau, North Dakota. For information regarding group prices or trail maps, visit their website. You can also call 701-263-4556 for general resort information, gift cards, or ski and snowboard school. Before making plans to go, be sure to check the snow report and ensure you have a good, safe time.
So there you have it. Rydell Auto Group has just shared with you our list of North Dakota winter sports sure to keep you and yours active during colder weather. What do you think of our list? Did we miss a favorite pastime of yours? Let us know! Leave a message and we’ll be happy to include your suggestions on our list. In the meantime, ensure your vehicle is prepared for the harsh winter weather with comprehensive detailing to get off all that road salt and sand. Schedule your detailing appointment or chat with an expert now.
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