North Dakota has many deep valleys and painted canyons, but as far as mountain peaks go it’s a little lacking. There is another formation we do have, however, that can be equally impressive, and that’s the butte. They can form from seemingly out of no where, even among a landscape of gently rolling hills interrupted by the towering structure of a butte. Nowhere else is this more true than White Butte, located just outside of Amidon, ND. Not only is this butte huge and beautiful, it is also the state’s highest point. Are you up for climbing to the top of the state?
White Butte seems very appropriately named when you see it. This prominent butte stands tall at the edge of the Little Missouri National Grassland.
Jimmy Emerson/Flickr
Its claim to fame is being North Dakota’s highest geological point, at 3,506 feet above sea level.
Jimmy Emerson/Flickr
There is a hiking trail up the butte you can take to reach the summit yourself.
Jimmy Emerson/Flickr
The views from up here are amazing, especially seeing as far as you can see of the fields surrounding it for miles around.
Jimmy Emerson/Flickr
White Butte also has some interesting and unusual geological formations to find along your journey to the top.
Jimmy Emerson/Flickr
Once you’ve reached the summit, you’ll find a geological survey marking the spot that is the very tippy top of North Dakota.
Jimmy Emerson/Flickr
This marker was put in place in 1962 and has been there ever since.
Jimmy Emerson/Flickr
From there you can just take in the view and feel like you’re on top of the whole world. Plus, then you can say you’ve been there!
J. Stephen Conn/Flickr
White Butte is located on private property and the owners are generous enough to keep the trail maintained and open for a small donation when you visit the butte. They allow you to ascend to the summit yourself, but make sure to respect the area.
Jimmy Emerson/Flickr
J. Stephen Conn/Flickr
It is located about 7 miles southeast of Amidon, ND. The exact location can be found here.
This natural wonder is part of our North Dakota Scenic Wonders Road Trip. Visit this and many other amazing places, all in one trip!
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