9/26/2004:
North Dakota has the largest continuous single-track trail in the country. The Maah-Daah-Hey Trail is a rugged 100-mile mountain bike trail that stretches from a Forest Service campground 20 miles south of Watford City, which extends south to Sully Creek State Park south of Medora. The trail, which is also used by hikers and horseback riders, has four fenced overnight campsites with hitching posts, vault toilets and campfire rings.
The trail’s name comes from the Mandan Indians. In their language, Maah Daah Hey means “an area that has been, or will be, around for a long time.” Trail markers depict turtles, which are honored for their determination, patience, fortitude and long life. In addition to more common wildlife, keen observers might see bighorn sheep and elk that have been reintroduced into the area.
Dakota Datebook written by Merry Helm