Beloved Scenic Road Reopens in National Park

Quick Smiles:

• The South Unit Scenic Road in Theodore Roosevelt National Park has reopened after a six-year closure.
• $51 million in restoration funds brought new life to this historic drive.
• The project boosts safety and access for hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.

The breathtaking South Unit Scenic Road in Theodore Roosevelt National Park is welcoming visitors once again, following a comprehensive reconstruction that restored one of the Midwest’s most stunning drives. After six years of closure due to rain damage and unstable terrain, this beloved route shines brighter than ever, thanks to a $51 million investment and dedicated engineering.

First built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, the road gives travelers access to iconic park overlooks and has long been a highlight for nature lovers. Restoration work improved drainage, rebuilt the road base, and resurfaced a six-mile stretch, enhancing safety for both visitors and staff.

“It’s almost like building a bridge,” John Hoeven, US Senator for North Dakota, told the North Dakota Monitor. “You are building this stuff on the side of a butte, very steep, and it’s on sandstone, so the structural engineering that went into this is pretty remarkable.”

The Great American Outdoors Act Legacy Restoration Fund provided essential funding for the project, helping tackle long-standing maintenance needs in national parks across the country. The newly restored road is ready just in time for another busy season, with park visitors contributing an impressive $56 million to local communities in 2024.

Looking for a reason to plan your next trip? The park’s renewed scenic loop is sure to offer a memorable adventure for all!

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