Turtle Mountains: A Visitor Review

The Turtle Mountains

Let me start off by saying they are not mountains, in fact they are far from even being foothills, yes they may be home to a ski hill, but that is far from being a reason to call them mountains. I would name them slightly turtle shell shaped hills.

Secondly, they are nicely wooded and have several lakes within them, similar to how Minnesota might feel.

And third, if you have not guess it already they have fantastic statues all over the place, this picture below is my favorite.

If you are going to the Turtle Mountains of North Dakota, I would suggest that you start on the western edge and head in on Scenic Route 43. Go 1st to an ATM, you are going to need cash at many of these places. Than to Lake Metigoshe, stop and see if the water ski club is practicing or preforming, because they are very good. Onward to the state park, that is a great place to spend a few days relaxing, they have cabins for rent if you want to skip the tent, and a nice little beach area as well as daily nature activities for children. Next stop should be "at whits end" a cute little book/ coffee shop along the lake. The whole perimeter of Metigoshe has a bike path that would be great for families.

Leaving the lake head East on 43, checking out the Peace Gardens and continuing west to St.John. At St.John head south to finish off your turtle mountain tour. 

If your a sucker for all things tourist, like we are, you can visit the Casino and all the little towns in the area in about a days time.

The drastic contrast between the reservation land and the state owned land triggered deeper thought and consideration about our national policies towards those who lived here first.

 and as always the drastic beauty of the prairie greets you on your way out. If you are in the turtle mountain area a must stop is the Hawk Museum that I will post about soon.

The Peace Gardens: Worth a visit not the drive

The logistical accomplishment of having a space that is neither Canada or America, land donated and maintained through a join effort to recognize the lasting peace between two large nations is powerful.

These plaques create the line of the two nations, and you can literally stand in both as you process how awesome this park is. Once inside the park gates for an entrance fee of $10 visitors can go between the Canadian and American sides as many times as they like. In face the center of the garden is a 3/4 mile long walkway on the border line. The center layout is very similar to that of the Lawn in DC.

The word garden in the title is what was misleading, at one point these gardens may have been meticulousness maintained. However they are less than 1 square mile of proper garden and they have seen their better days.

The architects did a fantastic job of aligning things for powerful views

But some buildings such as this one have lost their visual appeal

If you can get close enough please note the ravenous deer that are common in these here parts

Impressive flag flower work

Historical bells of love

and concrete towers that impress

70's style chapel, perfect for a small wedding

and wise words to send you on your way.

The Canadian half of the park has numerous lakes and great wildlife options. The American side has play structures, camping, music camp, performance halls, gift shops and plenty of trees and bike paths.

You do not need a passport to go into the parks, however you will need to re-enter the US or Canada through the border and inform the border control that you are coming from the park, if you have a passport i advise you bring it.

Camping in the park is nice, well maintained sites, cabins for rent, hot showers and about $12 a night for a primitive site.

We enjoyed our visit and spend about 6 hours exploring the park, however would  not recommend driving more than 1-2 hours to visit the park, but if your in the area its worth a look.