Hiking

Visitors can explore several hiking opportunities located at the southern end of J. Clark Salyer National Wildlife Refuge. If you have questions about our hiking trails, feel free to contact Refuge staff. Trail maps are available at the Refuge office, and you can also explore our interactive map to locate each trail. 

Sandhills Walk

The Sandhills Walk is an unmarked route that guides hikers through a mix of prairie vegetation, shrubs, and pockets of woodland. Seasonal wildflowers such as blue three‑petaled spiderwort and prairie wild rose—the state flower of North Dakota—are commonly seen along the way. Observant hikers may also spot tiny ball cactus growing close to the ground. Poison ivy is present in shaded areas beneath trees and shrubs, so caution is advised. Binoculars, field guides, and drinking water are recommended to enhance your hike and ensure a comfortable visit.

Wildlife Observation Walk

The Wildlife Observation Walk is an accessible trail. The entrance to the trail is located at the J. Clark Salyer National Wildlife Refuge office. This trail is 0.13 miles long and is rated as an easy hike that includes an accessible wildlife viewing platform adjacent to the larger tower. A wildlife observation blind is also available for visitors to use during hours of operation and is located along the dam 326 road. Along the trail you will find several covered picnic areas and a public restroom, each of these having a paved platform for easy access. These are a great area to stop in for a picnic and perhaps see some of the Refuges many species of waterfowl, raptors and songbirds. Whether just passing through or making J. Clark Salyer National Wildlife Refuge your next exploration destination, be sure to catch the spectacular sunset over the Souris River at the Wildlife Viewing Platform.