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| Jason Morsette, credit Ben Gumeringer. |
These states are magnificent all year round but there is something truly magically about visiting them during the winter. With snow-capped mountains, wildlife roaming endless plains and a myriad of seasonal activities to enjoy, Idaho and North Dakota truly put the wonder into winter.
When travel to these states is once again possible, we know we will be heading straight to their breath-taking national parks, their historic sites that bring to life past and current Native American culture and booking some exciting outdoor activities. But for now, let’s hear from the locals, discover ways to enjoy these regions during the colder months and uncover the gems of their capital cities.
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Meet the locals – Jason Morsette
The stories Jason Morsette tells aren’t found on websites, social media or television stations. The stories told by the descendent of Dakota Sioux, Arikara and Hidatsa ancestors are passed down through generations, many of them orally.Jason, who shares his stories with visitors to the Fort Berthold Reservation, does so to keep the history of his ancestors and his culture alive. He loves answering questions and telling stories.
“The dumbest question is one that is not asked,” Jason said. “If you really want to know something, and it’s important, you’ll find a way to obtain the knowledge. It’s a passed-down tradition. I have this knowledge from what my father passed on, and from family members.”
Visitors can arrange to meet Jason at the Earthlodge Village in New Town, where he explains the lodges, the gardens and the importance of the lake to the Three Affiliated Tribes (Mandan-Hidatsa-Arikara).
He does so with an understanding not only of his own culture, but of others as well.
“Being able to understand all cultures is important,” Jason said. “It’s breaking a barrier of cultural acceptance. The non-Native world has traditions and culture, too, and we have to be open to what they have to offer.”
Winter in North Dakota
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| Snowmobiling, credit North Dakota Tourism |
Ice fishing: There is certainly something peaceful about ice fishing. Heading to one of these top North Dakota spots to score a fish for dinner is favoured as a winter chill- out by fisherman around the world . The go- to spot would have to be Devil’s Lake. This is where large perch, walleye, northern pike, and white bass like to reside. With lodging nearby and 16,000 acres to fish at why not earmark this as a unique winter and fishing getaway when travel resumes? Next on the list is Lake Renwick, just off Highway 5 in the Icelandic State Park. Perfect for catching a northern pike. But wait, keen fisherfolk, there’s much more! Visitors can also try Lake Metigoshe, Lake Sakakawea or Lake Audubon. The options are truly endless.
Frostival: The annual, month-long winter celebration of Frostival starting mid-January is held in the Fargo Park District. Fargo is a town located in Cass County, North Dakota, along the Red River of the North which forms the border between Minnesota and North Dakota. The festival has many family- friendly, fun filled events such as snow golf, making s’mores, cardboard sled racing, hockey days and a winter movie night. With so much on offer there is something to do for everyone and a great way to get in the winter spirit. Dreaming of getting there for the next one? Stay at one of the many nearby accommodation options like the Radisson Hotel. While in Fargo be sure to visit some of the areas other attractions including the Red River Zoo or the Plains Art Museum.
Enjoy the Capital Delights of Bismarck
Since 1804, when Lewis and Clark waded through the Missouri River, Bismarck has been an area people are eager to explore. As the hub of culture, history, shopping and sight-seeing, the capital of North Dakota still has a lot to offer:The North Dakota Heritage Center and State Museum
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| The North Dakota Heritage Center and State Museum, credit North Dakota Tourism |
North Dakota State Capitol
Built in 1933 for $2 million, the North Dakota State Capitol towers above the city of Bismarck. Visitors on the 18th floor observation deck can get a bird’s eye view of the beautiful sweeping landscape below them. When they are back in operation, taking a guided tour of this historic gem is recommended. Tour guides will share interesting facts, details on the architecture and its historical significance, which is a great way toenjoy the full experience.
Image: North Dakota State Capitol Building, credit North Dakota Tourism
Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park
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| Custer House and Lieutenant, credit North Dakota Tourism |
Or visit the earth lodges of the Mandan tribe located nearby.
Dakota Zoo
But if it is the abundance of wildlife that is calling, head over to Dakota Zoo. Initially operating as a kennel for the boarding of domesticated animals, over time, Marc and Betty Christianson’s love of animals led them to taking in strays and injured animals to provide them with care. As the animals grew in number, so did the surrounding curiosity. In 1961 they opened their gates as Dakota Zoo. Nowadays visitors can see their wide range of animals while supporting a zoo that puts their animals first!
Did you know?
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| Bison grazing at Theodore Roosevelt National Park, credit North Dakota Tourism |
- With 63 wildlife refuges North Dakota has more than any other state. If you’re an animal lover be sure to see which ones you would like to visit here.
- Lake Sakakawea has more shoreline than the California Pacific Coast.
- As of February 17th, 2007, the region has a Guinness World Record for the most snow angels made simultaneously in one place. 8,962 people made snow angels at the state capitol grounds to secure this victory for the state
- The 19-story state capitol building in Bismarck is one of only four tower-style capitols in the U.S. An observation floor at the top provides a panoramic view of Bismarck-Mandan and the Missouri River Valley.
For more information on North Dakota, visit NDTourism.com.
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