Tipi Trail

Walk the Tipi Trail

The Tipi Trail is a scenic half-mile walking and hiking trail that begins right at Lund's Landing and takes you along a ridge overlooking the marina and the vast expanse of Lake Sakakawea. It is one of the most peaceful and rewarding short hikes in western North Dakota.

The trail winds through native prairie grasses and past Juniper trees, offering panoramic views of the lake, the surrounding buttes, and the marina below. On a clear day, the vista stretches for miles across the water and into the colorful badlands terrain beyond.

Whether you are looking for a morning walk before breakfast, an afternoon stroll to stretch your legs between fishing trips, or a quiet spot to watch the sunset, the Tipi Trail delivers a memorable experience in just a short distance.

Tipi structure on the trail at Lund's Landing

Scenic Views & Natural Beauty

From the trail, you will enjoy sweeping views of Lake Sakakawea stretching to the horizon, the colorful buttes that define the western North Dakota landscape, and the quiet coves and inlets where wildlife gather along the shoreline.

The terrain along the trail showcases the unique mix of prairie and badlands topography that makes this region so distinctive. Rolling grasslands give way to rocky outcrops and stands of Juniper, creating a landscape that changes character with every turn in the path.

The trail is accessible for most fitness levels and is a wonderful option for families, couples, and anyone who appreciates the outdoors.

Bird Watching on the Trail

The Tipi Trail is an excellent spot for bird watching. The diverse habitat along the trail and the surrounding lakeshore supports a wide variety of bird species throughout the season. Bring your binoculars and camera for the best experience.

Watch for eagles soaring above the lake, hawks circling the buttes, and a colorful assortment of songbirds flitting through the Juniper branches and prairie grasses. The mix of water, grassland, and rugged terrain creates overlapping habitats that attract species you might not find together anywhere else.

Early morning and late evening are the best times for bird observation, when the trail is quiet and the wildlife is most active.

Lewis & Clark Trail Head Connection

Walk in the footsteps of the Corps of Discovery along the shores of Lake Sakakawea.

The Tipi Trail connects to the broader Lewis & Clark Trail system in western North Dakota, linking our marina to the rich history of the Corps of Discovery expedition. This is the same region where Captain Meriwether Lewis was injured during a hunting trip in 1806, the only gunshot wound of the entire expedition.

The historical significance of this landscape adds a layer of meaning to every step on the trail. Interpretive elements along the route help visitors understand the journey of Lewis and Clark and the Native American peoples who called this area home long before the explorers arrived.

After your hike, visit the nearby Fort Union Trading Post, Fort Buford State Historic Site, and the Missouri-Yellowstone Confluence Interpretive Center to continue your exploration of the region's history.