Day Trips from Fargo
← All Fargo day tripsDay Trips from Fargo: Hiking Trails & Nature
Find the best hiking trails and nature destinations within driving distance of Fargo, ND. From easy lakeside walks to challenging ridge hikes, these day trip trails deliver real scenery without the plane ticket. Drive times, ratings, and trail info included.
12 hiking trails near Fargo
Sheyenne River State Forest
Fort Ransom, ND 58033
Just 1 hr 30 min from Fargo, rated 5.0 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge
MN 56569, USA
Just 1 hr 20 min from Fargo, rated 4.9 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Itasca State Park
Park Rapids, MN 56470
Just 1 hr 52 min from Fargo, rated 4.9 stars by 4,095 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Quarry Park Scientific and Natural Area
Waite Park, MN 56387
Just 2 hrs 40 min from Fargo, rated 4.8 stars by 280 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Glendalough State Park
Battle Lake, MN 56515
Just 1 hr 27 min from Fargo, rated 4.8 stars by 636 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Missouri River State Natural Area
ND 58554, USA
Just 2 hrs 51 min from Fargo, rated 4.8 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Maplewood State Park
Pelican Rapids, MN 56572
Just 1 hr 3 min from Fargo, rated 4.8 stars by 1,051 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Itasca Wilderness Sanctuary Scientific and Natural Area
Park Rapids, MN 56470
Just 2 hrs 7 min from Fargo, rated 4.7 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Turtle River State Park
Arvilla, ND 58214
Just 1 hr 29 min from Fargo, rated 4.7 stars by 787 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Quarry Park and Nature Preserve
Waite Park, MN 56387
Just 2 hrs 36 min from Fargo, rated 4.7 stars by 1,770 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Sica Hollow State Park
Sisseton, SD 57260
Just 1 hr 36 min from Fargo, rated 4.7 stars by 291 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Sheyenne National Grassland
McLeod, ND 58057
Just 1 hr 1 min from Fargo, rated 4.7 stars by 219 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking Trails Day Trips from Fargo
What are the best hiking trails near Fargo, ND?
The best hikes near Fargo range from easy nature preserve loops to challenging state park trails with waterfalls, overlooks, and canyon scenery. Check the cards above for top-rated options with real drive times.
Are there easy hikes near Fargo?
Yes. Many state parks and nature preserves near Fargo offer well-maintained, beginner-friendly trails under 3 miles. Look for "Nature" tagged destinations above for the most accessible options.
What should I bring on a day hike from Fargo?
Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and layers. Most trails near Fargo are well-marked but cell service can be spotty in state parks. Download trail maps before you leave and wear sturdy shoes.
When is the best time to hike near Fargo?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the best hiking weather and scenery near Fargo. Fall foliage is spectacular at most destinations. Summer works but can be hot and buggy. Winter hiking is possible at many parks with proper gear.
Don't know where to go?
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