Maah Daah Hey Trail, ND
Today’s Forecast:
Today’s Report:
Biking
Use Caution for biking. High near 47°F. Breezy winds (23 mph).
- Temp: Marginal weather factor
- Rain: Favorable conditions
- Wind: Marginal weather factor
- Thunderstorm: Favorable conditions
Hiking
Use Caution for hiking. High near 47°F. Breezy winds (23 mph).
- Temp: Marginal weather factor
- Rain: Favorable conditions
- Wind: Marginal weather factor
- Thunderstorm: Favorable conditions
Camping
Use Caution for camping. High near 47°F. Breezy winds (23 mph).
- Temp: Marginal weather factor
- Rain: Favorable conditions
- Wind: Marginal weather factor
- Thunderstorm: Favorable conditions
Outdoor Events / Activities
Not Recommended for outdoor events / activities. High near 47°F. Breezy winds (23 mph). Temperatures outside comfort limits (47°F).
- Temp: Unfavorable weather factor
- Rain: Favorable conditions
- Wind: Marginal weather factor
- Thunderstorm: Favorable conditions
About Maah Daah Hey Trail
Maah Daah Hey Trail crosses remote badlands where heat, wind, water availability, gumbo mud, and long distances between services shape every outing.
Planning an Outing at Maah Daah Hey Trail
Check recent rain, trail advisories, water sources, campground status, and the gravel approach to both endpoints. Avoid committing to clay roads during or just after heavy rain.
Weather Tips for Maah Daah Hey Trail
- Treat recent rain as an access forecast: clay and gumbo roads can remain slick after the storm ends.
- Carry more water than expected and avoid exposed ridges or open prairie when lightning approaches.
- Watch for severe thunderstorms, hail, smoke, and sudden wind shifts; keep a sheltered alternative available.
- Use the latest notice for Medora and the exact trailhead, ramp, campground, or facility you plan to use.
Nearby Towns and Areas
Use this forecast as practical context for outdoor plans near:
- Medora
- Watford City
- CCC Campground
- Bennett Campground
- Buffalo Gap
- Long X Trail
- Little Missouri National Grassland
- Elkhorn Ranch area
Adjust the Day to the Forecast
Move the start time or access point when it avoids peak heat, rough water, mud, or the strongest wind.
7-Day Forecast for Maah Daah Hey Trail
Maah Daah Hey Trail Weather by Season
Winter
Freeze-thaw cycles, severe wind chill, and drifting complicate trail and road travel. Do not treat a calm town forecast as proof that exposed terrain is ready. Check conditions near Medora because local access can change first.
Spring
Rapid warmups can accelerate runoff while cold fronts return snow and freezing rain. Check road surfaces and water levels close to departure. Check conditions near Watford City because local access can change first.
Summer
Summer access is broad, yet heat index, bugs, ticks, algae notices, and sudden storms still shape the best destination. Start exposed travel early. Check conditions near CCC Campground because local access can change first.
Fall
Stable early-fall days are valuable, though wet leaves, smoke, frost, and rapid evening cooling affect trails and camps. Check conditions near Bennett Campground because local access can change first.
Key Climate Data Points
- Annual average temperature: roughly 43–46°F across the western badlands, with colder readings in exposed uplands.
- Annual snowfall: commonly 30–45 inches, although wind redistributes snow and creates deep drifts beside exposed roads.
- Warmest months: July is usually warmest; exposed badlands and prairie heat faster than wooded or lakeshore settings.
- Coolest months: January is generally coldest, with wind chill often more important than air temperature.
- Wettest season: Late spring and early summer usually bring the most precipitation, including severe thunderstorms.
- Driest season: Winter is often driest by liquid precipitation, although drifting snow can dominate access.
- Best outdoor window: Late spring through early fall for warm-season activities; winter destinations require verified ice, snow, roads, and operations.