Full of Native American sites, Viking lore, pioneer homesteads, and small towns with turn-of-the-century charm, the Sheyenne River Valley Scenic Byway also possesses one of the most popular canoeing rivers in the whole of North Dakota. Come experience the delightful rolling sand hills, hardwood forests, expansive tall grass prairies, and abundant wildlife while floating down the shining, peaceful waters of the Sheyenne River.
Located at the southern end of Lake Ashtabula, the water route from Baldhill Dam to Chautauqua Park in Valley City is one of the most popular canoeing stretches along the byway. Glide along its glistening waters and you might see a red fox, deer, or Wild Turkey scurrying along the shoreline. Peer into the clear waters of the Sheyenne River to watch a beaver, painted box turtle, or snapping turtle zip along the water’s surface.
Over 300 kinds of birds call this valley home, so you are sure to see many different kinds of waterfowl and songbirds as you paddle along. Keep a sharp eye out for Bald Eagles, Golden Eagles, White Pelicans, Belted Kingfishers and Double-crested Cormorants, to name a few. Take a quiet moment to hear the many varieties of songbirds serenading you from the brush along the water’s edge.
If you are a novice to canoeing and would like to test the waters for just a couple of hours, take the easy run to Chatauqua Park, starting at the National Fish Hatchery landing about four miles north of Valley City. While you’re in Valley City, be sure to paddle under the spectacular Highline Bridge. At 3,860 feet long and 162 feet above the riverbed, it is one of the highest and longest single-track railroad bridges in the nation.
Fort Ransom State Park also offers many opportunities for hours of canoeing fun. Put in at the State Park, canoe upstream and then float back down. Or for a fee, park personnel will transport you to one of six drop-off points so you can float back to the park where your vehicle is parked. Two of these access points are accessible to the public, so an independent canoeist may provide their own drop off and pick up instead as well. The park provides canoe and kayak rentals as well as a canoe campsite, accessible only by canoe or foot.
Water levels can be dangerously high in the spring, and too low to navigate in late fall. For current river conditions visit the USGS website. For more detailed information about specific water routes and access points visit ndparks.com.
With fantastic scenery, incredible water routes, and abundant wildlife, the Sheyenne River Valley Scenic Byway offers great canoeing opportunities. Whether you are an expert canoeist or a beginner, the Sheyenne River is a perfect destination for canoeists of all skill levels.
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