How Tall Is North Dakota? Total Distance North to South

Known for its rugged, natural landscape, North Dakota is a paradise for any outdoor adventurer. There are numerous national parks, historic sites, and state parks to explore. With so much wilderness, you might be wondering just how large The Roughrider State actually is.

North Dakota is 211 miles from North to South. It is roughly rectangular shaped with a slightly irregular eastern border formed by the Red River. North Dakota is 340 miles from East to West. Overall, the state covers an area of around 70,704 square miles.

Geography of North Dakota

According to the North Dakota Game and Fish Department, the state is divided into six distinct regions. Each has its unique topography, wildlife, and attractions. But what they all have in common is a breathtaking wilderness that draws visitors. The Red River Valley is located along the eastern side of the state near the Red River. From there, the Drift Prairie, Missouri Coteau, and Missouri Slope are all relatively flat or with gently rolling hills. The Missouri Slope does have some more elevation changes as it transitions to one of North Dakota’s most famous regions, the Badlands. This area has many more steep slopes, rocks, and buttes. A small region in the northern part of North Dakota along the Canadian border called Turtle Mountains is adjacent to the Drift Prairie.

Animals in North Dakota

Most of North Dakota is covered in prairies, with some sections of wetlands, rivers, floodplain forests, and the dry section of the Badlands. The animals in this state adapted to live in these types of environments. Because it is sparsely populated, there are still plenty of regions that are home to diverse species of wildlife.

Moose, bison, elk, and deer are some of the larger animals that call this area home. They can be dangerous when provoked and may be hazardous for motorists when they are near roads. It’s important to keep your eyes peeled when driving in North Dakota. Smaller animals like ferrets and raccoons are also common. Bighorn sheep are also plentiful.

Red foxes and mountain lions are two of the most common predators in this state. While they aren’t particularly aggressive, they can go after small pets and livestock, as well as other animals. The prairie rattlesnake is one of the most dangerous animals in North Dakota due to its venomous bite.

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