Drive: North Dakota Sampler

North Dakota Sampler

The Missouri River guided explorers and pioneers across the American frontier. Today pastoral roads parallel its historic path from rolling prairie to rugged badlands.

from The Most Scenic Drives in America

Length: About 400 miles plus side trips.

When to go: Mid-May through mid-September.

Words to the wise: Keep a safe distance from bison, which can run as fast as 35 m.p.h.

Not to be missed: Medora Musical, a Western-style revue (early June to early September), Medora. Jaycee Rodeo Days (early July), Mandan. Dam Regatta (late August), Garrison. United Tribes Powwow (early September), Bismarck.

Nearby attraction: North Dakota State Fair (late July), Minot.

Further information: North Dakota Dept. of Commerce, P.O. Box 2057, Bismarck, ND 58502; tel. 800-435-5663, www.ndtourism.com.