Old Oak Trail

Old Oak, in Lake Metigoshe State Park, is a National Recreation Trail. This scenic pathway wanders through mixed forestland near the border with Canada. Interpretive signs along the way point out some of the natural features of the three-mile road. Pick up a brochure that describes the sites from the park office or by the trailhead. You can use this byway year-round, but you might want to bring your snowshoes or cross-country skis if you visit in the winter.

You and your pup can follow the groomed pathway into the oak, birch, and aspen forest. The trailhead is by the  Lake Metigoshe Park warming house. Most of the trek will be a moderately difficult hike, but you'll also find a few more challenging spots on the way. Watch out for wildlife like beaver, Cooper's hawk, moose, and hooded merganser as you navigate the rolling hills here. 

While you and Spot are getting your exercise on Old Oak, you can enhance your experience with a little geocaching. There's a location on the pathway with a geocache designed by park management. Just make sure you plan ahead. Set up a profile and search for the coordinates before your outing, then bring a GPS to hunt for the hidden treasure. 

Remember to be respectful of other hikers and bikers when you use this pawtastic trail. The park expects you to keep your pooch in control on a leash. Carry bags with you to remove and carry out any waste. The trip will probably take you a few hours, so have water for you and your special pal.

Old Oak Trail is a popular hiking pathway in North Dakota. There are a variety of habitats in the area that house woodland creatures and over 174 species of bird. The rolling terrain of the Turtle Hills and dense forest offers a pawesome environment where you and your dog can stretch your legs together.