Sperati Point: A Gorgeous Lookout in Theodore Roosevelt NP
- Stephen Warner
- Mar 11
- 3 min read
Updated: 5 days ago
At the far end of the road in Theodore Roosevelt National Park's North Unit, the Achenbach Trail leads to the stunning Sperati Point. Don't let the longer drive discourage you—this short but rewarding hike is well worth it. Stroll through open grasslands to reach Sperati Point, where you'll be treated to a breathtaking view of the winding Little Missouri River.
Trail Info
Trailhead Name | Achenbach Trail |
Distance | 2.4 miles / 3.9 km (out and back) |
Estimated time | ~1 hour |
Elevation gain | 250 ft / 75 m |
Highest point | 2,552 ft / 778 m (Sperati Point) |
Permits / fees | National Park fee |
Parking | Paved lot |
Toilets? | Yes |
Dog friendly? | No (prohibited) |
Know before you go
Bison are common on this trail and can be dangerous if provoked. Bison can weigh up to 2000 lbs, and run up 35 miles per hour, so best to give these big fellas a wide berth if you encounter them. If a bison raises its tail straight up it may be preparing to charge--back away calmly and keep your distance..
This trail is shadeless and can be minorly overgrown in sections. Avoid hiking during the hottest part of the day, and wear long pants to protect against brush or irritating plants.
This trail is (literally) at the back of the North Unit. Theodore Roosevelt National Park is split into two non-connected sections (North and South), about an hour apart. From the North Unit Visitor Center, it’s about a 30-minute drive to reach this trailhead
You can see a lot of the views from the Oxbow Overlook without hiking. If you’re looking for an easier option, you can take in many of the same views from Oxbow Overlook without hiking. But if you prefer fewer crowds with your scenery, the trail to Sperati Point is well worth it.
Other trails nearby
Distance: 4 miles (6.4 km)
Elevation gain: 500 ft (150 m)
Details: The North Unit’s most popular trail, offering classic badlands scenery, layered rock formations, and solid river views.
The Trail
Let's begin! As you'll notice from this sign, the Achenbach Trail is quite a bit longer than the section we are tackling (18 miles / 30 km). It's a great trail though if you are looking explore the backcountry in this section of the park.
The trail has a few markers, but not a ton. In general though, it's easy to follow.
Simply continue through the grasslands along the beaten down path.
And in no time at all, we see our destination. That little hill ahead marks Sperati Point.
And we made it! The view from Sperati Point is incredible. I loved this vantage point, where you can take in all the dramatic bends of the Little Missouri River winding through the landscape
Zoomed-in perspective! Late September felt like the perfect time to visit. Not only were the temps crisp and refreshing, but look at those fall colors!
And what was waiting for me after the return trek to my car? A perfect shot of a grazing bison, framed by the vast, rolling grasslands. A pretty incredible way to cap off an unforgettable hike in the Badlands!
SS Reflections
I don’t think North Dakota gets the same natural beauty recognition as its sibling to the south—and maybe that’s justified. A lot of the state is flat and dominated by prairie and farmland. But Theodore Roosevelt National Park, and trails like this one, made me realize how overlooked its beauty truly is. How often do you get to experience vast grasslands, rugged badlands, and a winding river cutting through canyons—all in one place, with abundant wildlife to top it off? Not many places.