Turtle Mountains International Peace Garden Backcountry Loop
Border forests few expect to find
This unique backcountry loop straddles the world’s longest undefended border, weaving through the Turtle Mountains’ dense oak and aspen forests. The trail follows old logging roads through the International Peace Garden, crossing Boundary Creek multiple times and climbing to overlooks above Lake Metigoshe. The technical section comes at Devil’s Hill, where glacial boulders create a natural rock garden that’ll scrape paint if you’re not careful.
Moderate difficulty requiring passport for the Canadian sections, though most of the route stays U.S.-side. High-clearance vehicle recommended for rocky creek crossings and tight forest passages. Summer and fall offer the best conditions when the hardwoods are passable. No permits needed but respect private land boundaries. Primitive camping available at nearby state forest lands. This route offers a rare taste of North Dakota’s forested side — something most folks never expect to find in the Great Plains.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Dirt |
| Features | Camping, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 25 mi / 40.2 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 2240 ft |
| Best season | June-October |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance recommended |
| Nearest town | Dunseith, North Dakota |
| Land manager | International Peace Garden |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
No recent condition reports. Be the first to post one.
Log in to post a condition report.
Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Jeep Cherokee or Tacoma handle this trail?
Yes, stock high-clearance vehicles do fine on most sections. The dirt roads are well-maintained forest service routes, though muddy spots after rain can be tricky without 4WD.
Is the trail accessible in winter or early spring?
No, the trail is typically closed or impassable November through May due to snow and mud. June through October is the reliable window, with peak conditions in late summer.
Do I need permits or pay fees to drive this loop?
No permits required for the trail itself, but you'll pay the International Peace Garden entrance fee ($10 per vehicle) since the route passes through the park grounds.
What's the most challenging part of this trail?
The water crossings after heavy rains can be the trickiest sections - they're shallow but can get muddy approaches. Otherwise it's mostly smooth forest roads with some rocky sections.
Where can I camp along this route and is there cell service?
Dispersed camping is allowed in designated areas throughout the forest sections. Cell service is spotty to nonexistent once you're deep in the woods, so download maps offline.