Near White Butte Trail
The grassland up to the summit. Watch for snakes.
Near White Butte Trail
Beginning of trail.
Near White Butte Trail
Gate about 1 mile into trail.
Near White Butte Trail

Looking for more photos?

View All Photos
View Map
Driving Directions
Classic Hike Route
Buy NowView in 3D

White Butte Trail

4.0 (3 Ratings)
Climb to the highest point in North Dakota on this straightforward trek through scenic badlands to the summit of White Butte.
1.8
mi
Distance
348
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
Regional Classic
A must do route for the area handpicked by local experts.
Geologically SignificantViews
Access Issues
The route is located on private property. A cash donation is requested at the trailhead mailbox to support trail maintenance. Keep dogs on a leash, pack out all trash, and respect the active cattle ranching operations. No overnight camping is permitted.

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
1.77mi
Distance
348ft
Elevation Gain
348ft
Elevation Loss
15%
Max Grade
3,508ft
High Point
3,156ft
Low Point
Path Type
There and Back
Description
This route starts and ends at the White Butte Trailhead after reaching the summit of White Butte, the highest point in North Dakota. From the parking area, follow the trail south along the base of the buttes. The trail begins to ascend the clay slopes of the butte over the next 0.8 miles to reach the summit. The summit of White Butte is marked by a registry box and a metal monument. Retrace your steps back to the trailhead.

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
No Condition Reports
Report Conditions

Nearby Hike Routes

Painted Canyon Nature Trail

Hike Route

Painted Canyon Nature Trail

Family Friendly
moderate
1.09 mi
+284 ft
Painted Canyon Visitor Center Trails

Hike Route

Painted Canyon Visitor Center Trails

Views
easy
1.83 mi
+417 ft
Jones/Lower Talkington/Lower Paddock Loop

Hike Route

Jones/Lower Talkington/Lower Paddock Loop

Birding
moderate
7.91 mi
+443 ft
Petrified Trail Loop

Hike Route

Petrified Trail Loop

Birding
moderate
10.31 mi
+768 ft
Devils Pass via the Maah Daah Hey Trail

Hike Route

Devils Pass via the Maah Daah Hey Trail

Views
easy
5.1 mi
+788 ft
Kate's Walk on the Maah Daah Hey Trail

Hike Route

Kate's Walk on the Maah Daah Hey Trail

Birding
moderate
4.83 mi
+519 ft
Contributors
onX Maps, Inc