RIDING TYPE | ■︎ ◆︎ Intermediate/ Advanced

TRIP DURATION | 5-Days

SEASON | September

Conquer the Legendary Maah Daah Hey IMBA Epic

Unleash your adventurous spirit on Western Spirit's premier Maah Daah Hey Singletrack bike tour, a 5-day, fully supported expedition through the raw, untamed beauty of North Dakota's Badlands. This isn't just a ride; it's an immersive North Dakota Badlands cycling experience on one of the most iconic and remote singletrack bike trips in the United States. Prepare to be captivated by dramatic landscapes, abundant wildlife, and the thrill of conquering an IMBA Epic trail.

The legendary Maah Daah Hey Trail stretches over 100 miles, connecting units of the vast Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Its name, meaning "grandfather," perfectly encapsulates the ancient, enduring spirit of this land—a true "painted desert" landscape. This trip is designed for those with singletrack mountain biking experience, offering a rewarding challenge amidst breathtaking scenery.

Advanced Challenge, Geological Wonders & Full Backcountry Support

This Guided North Dakota Badlands Trip is tailored for Intermediate/Advanced riders seeking a challenging outdoor escape, featuring:

  • Iconic IMBA Epic: Conquer the legendary Maah Daah Hey Trail, marked with the turtle symbol of steadfast determination.
  • Technical & Exposed: Ride the eye-widening Devil's Pass and exposed sections, navigating challenging rough singletrack through grass and clay.
  • Historical Immersion: Explore lands near Theodore Roosevelt’s Elkhorn Ranch and follow the Buffalo Gap Trail to the historic town of Medora.
  • Unique Geology: Pedal through a "painted desert" landscape of mesas and buttes, viewing fascinating scoria (red sediment from coal fires) and petrified wood.

This tour contains riding on narrow technical trails. Singletrack experience is highly recommended. We will be without vehicle support during all of the singletrack sections of the ride.

Itineraries are subject to change due to weather, road conditions, rider safety and other factors which may affect the logistics of the adventure.

  • Road Surface: Rough singletrack through grass and clay.
  • Overall Rating: Intermediate/ Advanced
  • Technical Difficulty: Moderate with advanced moments.
  • Physical Difficulty: Moderate to difficult.
  • Total Mileage: 15-25 miles per day

MEETING PLACE AND TIME

Bismarck, ND
This trip meets at 8:00 AM CST at Home2 Suites by Hilton at 1122 W Turnpike Ave, Bismarck, ND 58501; 701-751-3400.

ENDING TIME

We will return to Bismarck between 4:00-5:00 PM on the last day.

GETTING TO BISMARCK, ND

Driving
Bismarck is located at the intersection of Route 83 and Interstate 94. There is parking available at the hotel where the trip meets.

Flying into Bismarck
Airport Code: BIS

LODGING BEFORE YOUR TRIP
It is a good idea to book your rooms in advance if possible; here are a few recommendations:

Home2 Suites by Hilton
1122 W Turnpike Ave
Bismarck, ND 58501
701-751-3400

Radisson Inn
701-255-6000, 800-333-3333
They have a van service for airport shuttles.

Super 8
701-255-1314, 800-800-8000

In Medora:
Badlands Motel
701-623-4444, 800-633-6721

TAXI SERVICE
Taxi 9000: 701-223-9000

Be sure to bring everything on this list. We have carefully developed this list to ensure your comfort on the tour regardless of the weather. If you are prepared for extreme weather, it is an adventure. If you are not prepared it can be a serious problem.We recommend the layering system, including a wicking or long underwear layer, an insulating layer and a weather barrier for wind and rain. This list reflects that philosophy. Weather in the mountains can be unpredictable so be sure to bring all the warm clothing and rain gear listed!

HOW TO PACK: The bulk of your gear and clothing will ride in the Western Spirit support vehicle (preferably in a large duffle bag) and will not be accessible during the day.

For this trip, you will need a riding pack and optional day bag:

  •  Your riding pack may be a hydration pack, but needs to carry 2-3 liters of water, rain gear, other warm clothing, and food for the day. You may be away from camp and the support vehicle all day and need to be self-sufficient.
  • A small day bag is optional and may be used to store things you’d rather not ride with, but would like to have access to during the day. This day-pack will remain with the support vehicle and may not be accessible, depending on the day.

WHAT WE PROVIDE:
✓ meals, snacks, water, electrolyte drinks, non-alcoholic drinks
✓ camp mugs, all kitchen and dining ware
✓ 1 cycling water bottle
✓ camp chairs
✓ solar showers
✓ sunscreen & bug spray
✓ bike stand and lube
✓ guides bring their own tools
✓ first aid kit with basic medications

BRINGING OR RENTING

o bike (Our rentals come with flat pedals. You are welcome to bring your own if you prefer.)
o helmet (gratis w/rental bike)
o tent
o sleeping bag
o sleeping pad

CYCLING CLOTHING

o cycling shoes
o 3 - 5 pair cycling shorts
o 3 - 5 cycling shirts
o long sleeve cycling shirt
o long sleeve cotton shirt or solar sleeves
o cycling socks
o windbreaker
o tights or leg warmers
o 2 pair cycling gloves (1 pair full length for warmth)
o rain jacket (Gore-Tex or similar)
o rain pants (Gore-Tex or similar)
o warm layer (lightweight synthetic puffy jacket or long sleeve fleece shirt)
o sunglasses or other eye protection

CAMP CLOTHING

o camp shorts
o shirts
o warm socks
o long underwear, top and bottom (wicking layer, not cotton)
o 2 pair warm long pants
o long sleeve fleece or sweater
o pile or down jacket (insulating layer)
o warm gloves and hat
o brimmed hat or visor
o bathing suit (for solar showers on the trip and at the hotel before/after your trip)
o hiking shoes
o sandals
o rain gear to wear in camp

PERSONAL

o toiletries
o medication (daily and emergency)
o towel
o biodegradable soap
o wet-wipes
o flashlight or headlamp (with extra batteries)
o sunglasses
o optional day bag
o stuff sacks or reusable grocery bags (or separate compartments for your dry bag)
o cash for tipping guides: your guides work as a team and share all of their gratuities. A tip of 10-20% of the price of your trip given to either one of your guides when you return to civilization is a great way to say thanks for a job well done.

OPTIONAL

o camera, extra batteries
o binoculars
o alcoholic or any of your favorite beverages (your guides will pack these)
o books or maps
o we encourage you to turn your devices off, but if you cannot, please bring a way to charge them. We recommend a portable USB charger with 1-2 charges. Also, putting your phone on airplane mode to save power is recommended.

Q: Since the singletrack is mostly carved into hillsides, what is the level of exposure along sections like Devil’s Pass?

  • A: The exposure on Devils pass is a car lengths wide. Your guides will give notice any exposure we will encounter during the daily rides and recommend we walk if feeling uncertain about the exposure.

Q: The Little Missouri River crossing (Day 2) is mentioned. What footwear is recommended for wading across, and how do we ensure bikes/gear stay dry?

  • A: Depending on water level we will either pedal or walk across the Missouri River. Taking off our shoes and socks to keep them dry.
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Need even more details? Send us a message or call and talk to one of our trip specialists at (435) 259-8732 

Maah Daah Hey Singletrack

PRICE | $1,645 pp

Private Departures Available
Call  435-259-8732

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See what some of our guest are saying:

Loved it. Great trip as always with Western Spirit. Great trail, great food, great guides. - Holly 

Outstanding getaway! Western Spirits exceeded all expectations. I highly recommend Maah Daah Hey and highly recommend outfitting with Western Spirits. - Brittany 

Great fun on the trail and around the campfire! Food and service was excellent. A wonderful way to do a mountain biking trip - Steve 

A Day With Western Spirit

Rise & Shine
How do you like to start your day? If you like waking up to hot coffee and unforgettable sunrises you’re in luck. Delicious cowboy coffee, fresh fruit salad, pancakes, bacon, granola, yogurt and more.

>>> Read More

Hit The Trail
Whether your trip includes: riding
the Rainbow Rim Trail; enjoying breathtaking views of the
Grand Canyon; leading your
friends on the White Rim Road in Canyonlands; or ripping down.

>>> Read More

Apres
We base our itineraries around the trails that we love to ride, but also around great camp locations. We love to find the perfect place next to rivers or lakes , or by vistas
and sunset spots.

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BIKE TRIP TESTIMONIALS

“To begin with the landscape and scenery was majestic and awesome. The guides were all instrumental in enhancing the experience with their knowledge, skills, and out of the goodness of their character.”

~ Edward

Great salads at lunch, a lot of variety, they guides had food specially prepared for those of us with food issues. Plus, they set up our chairs in the best spots!

~ Teri

“This was our 3rd trip with Western Spirit, so we knew what to expect from the guides and the support they’d provide. The trip itself was spectacular – the scenery was unbeatable and the weather was perfect.”

~ Jennifer

Your guides are your ambassadors, they are fun, energetic and very knowledgeable. I would not do anything different.

~ Paul

“Great salads at lunch, a lot of variety, they guides had food specially prepared for those of us with food issues. Plus, they set up our chairs in the best spots!”

~ Teri

“It’s been a long time since I’ve been on any organized event and this one was simply amazing. My skill and fitness level were not up to those as others in the group but never once did I feel intimidated…”

~ Nick
“I was worried riding and camping with a group… could I keep up?… would I “fit in”? I was able to keep up and push myself and was challenged by the terrain, I loved it! The group was great I had nothing to worry about, everyone was friendly and supportive.”
~ Robin

“I was tired at the end of each day and to have everything taken care of as far as dinner and cleanup, it was so nice to have that not be my issue. The guides were amazing, simply amazing….the food was always excellent, their personalities are different but blended with everyone perfectly!”

~ Pam

The food was fantastic! I didn’t expect such meals. The guides were so friendly, helpful, and entertaining. They really worked well together. Also, they made sure that everyone in their various skill levels enjoyed the rides and that there was enough for everyone.

~ Nichole

“The trip was one of the most incredible experiences of my life… the scenery, the views, the guides, and the food! I loved how great the meals were!!! The guides were unbelievable cooks! After biking all day, to be able to sit down and eat a great meal & drink a beer …man, it was great!”

~ Gary

“Food was WAY better than I expected. I like to eat healthy and was worried about “camping food.” The guides prepared amazing food. The trip was a blast in general with gorgeous scenery and good campsites. Guides were very friendly, patient and helpful”

~ Erika

“Very accommodating of me being vegan, very cheerful and nice.”

~ Jason

The guides made the trip totally beyond awesome. They were fun, the food was WAY better than I expected, the rides could be were tailored, guiding was superb, trails were a blast, our campsite was sweet. I have zero complaints.

~ Wendy

“I had been to Canyonlands two years prior so knew scenery was outstanding but it takes on even more magnificence when seen from seat of bike. The guides were awesome and supportive. Food was better than in most restaurants and more than you could eat.”

~ Michael

“Warmth, humor, seriously good people skills,professionalism, competence. They execute their very serious responsibilities with confidence-inspiring grace.”

~ David

“Normally I do self supported but having someone else make excellent food makes me want to do it again”

~ Christl

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