You Won't Believe This Town Is In North Dakota

North Dakota is known for its vast prairies and endless skies. Most towns sit on flat land with fields stretching as far as the eye can see. However, Walhalla is an exception. This small town is tucked into a deep, wooded valley that glaciers carved out thousands of years ago. Here, you can ski, kayak, bike, and explore nature like nowhere else in the state. Walhalla combines outdoor activities with rich history and friendly small-town charm. It’s a hidden gem waiting to be discovered, offering fun throughout the year.

A Town Shaped in a Forested Valley

While the rest of North Dakota is wide and flat prairie land, there is more hidden in this state. Walhalla actively defies this topographical expectation for the small towns in the state. With its position near the Canadian border, in a wooded valley known as the Pembina Gorge, the appearance and layout of Walhalla offer a unique experience for travelers.

First, consider how this landscape anomaly appeared in the gorge itself. The Pembina Gorge was formed approximately 9,000 years ago when the glaciers retreated and carved out the land. Today, it is inhabited by the most extensive continuous oak woodland in North Dakota. The valley has cliffs, wetlands, and dense forests. The diverse natural landscape has made this region of the state popular for exploration, hunting, and hiking.

While most other towns in North Dakota can only boast of agriculture or hunting, Walhalla outdoes these with an almost endless potential for outdoor fun. Its landscape allows people to ski, mountain bike, kayak, hike, and even enjoy live theater in the summer. The valley protects the town from strong winds, and the steep hillsides provide skiing thrills you won't get anywhere else in the state.

Frost Fire Park: Prairie Skiing With a View

Seven miles west of Walhalla is Frost Fire Park. It opened in 1976 and is the only facility in North Dakota south of the Canadian border where downhill skiing or snowboarding is possible. It is a special winter sports venue in the region.

Frost Fire Park has a 350-foot vertical drop. That might not seem significant if you’re used to the Rockies, but it’s a big deal in North Dakota. There are also 10 ski runs. Some are easy, some are for intermediate skiers, and a few are for experts. A quad chairlift carries skiers to the top of the hill, and a magic carpet lift helps beginners get started. There is also a terrain park called Dragon's Mouth where trick snowboarders and skiers are trained for special jumps.

In the summer, Frost Fire Park is never idle, either. Downhill mountain biking utilizes ski lifts, and riders can access eight trails. The park also hosts the Frost Fire Summer Theatre, where people go to watch musicals and plays under the sun. This keeps the park busy throughout the year for both adventure and entertainment.

Historic and Cultural Highlights

Walhalla isn’t just about wilderness recreation. It’s also one of the oldest settlements in North Dakota. Established in 1845, it has a history that goes back to the fur trade era in the mid-19th century. Back then, it was called St. Joseph. Later, it became an important trading post for settlers, fur trappers, and Métis families.

Today, you can visit the Gingras Trading Post State Historic Site. This post was constructed by Antoine Blanc Gingras, a Métis trader and legislator, in the 1840s. The site is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and retains its original appearance. The structures here at the site are considered the oldest remaining buildings in North Dakota.

The Walla Theater is also a unique attraction in the town. It was built in 1949 and has maintained its streamlined appearance. The theater screens movies and hosts events, becoming integral to the entertainment and community scene. Due to its significance as part of the town's history, it is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Where to Eat and Relax

After a day of skiing, hiking, or exploring, Walhalla has a couple of pleasant places to eat and unwind. From recognizable comfort foods to unique items that reflect the town's heritage, travelers can enjoy a filling set of options.

• Waters Family Restaurant and Bakery — This popular local haunt serves classic Midwestern cuisine, including biscuits and gravy. It features a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere that both locals and visitors enjoy.
• The Cure — While predominantly a place known for its sandwiches, most comment on the welcoming attitude of the staff. The burgers and bites have a very old-fashioned feel, with a newspaper-printed cover.
• Bonesy's Bar — A casual spot to stop and have a burger, bar food, and a beverage. It's a casual spot to stop and chill after a day of sightseeing.
• The Crooked Halo Coffee Shop & Bakery — Perfect for an early morning coffee, a fresh pastry, or a peaceful afternoon refuge, The Crooked Halo is renowned for homemade baked goods and a cozy ambiance.

Must-Do Highlights

Walhalla has something for everyone. Whether looking for adventure, history, or a peaceful day in nature, this town has it all. Here are some of the top things to do during your visit when you aren’t already stopping by the Frost Fire Park amenities:

• Walk the Pembina River Trail — This scenic trail follows the river, offering great gorge views. Signs along the way explain the area’s geology and history.
• Kayak the Pembina River — A kayak rental lets you view the gorge below. You can choose paths that take anywhere from a couple of hours to half a day.
• Catch a Flick at the Walla Theater — This historic theater still shows films and hosts town events. You should be able to track down a list of scheduled events at the venue.

Walhalla is not your average North Dakota town. Its location within the Pembina Gorge makes it different physically and in the spirit of the people who call it home. You can ski, hike, kayak, bike, and experience a close connection with nature that greatly contrasts the plains surrounding the community. While you're here, Walhalla offers cozy restaurants, rich history, and friendly relaxing spots. Whether you are looking for outdoor adventure or the oldest structure in North Dakota, Walhalla has what you want.