Ready to start your North Dakota adventure? Use the search form above to compare real-time car rental rates across North Dakota. Select your pickup location (from major hubs like Fargo’s Hector International Airport to city locations in Bismarck, Minot, Grand Forks, etc.), choose your dates, and hit “Search.” In seconds, you’ll see offers from dozens of rental companies statewide from budget-friendly compacts to spacious 4x4 SUVs and vans. Booking is fast and secure. Most rentals allow you to reserve now, pay later at pick-up, and include free cancellation if your plans change. Lock in an amazing North Dakota car rental deal now, and you’ll be all set to roam from prairie to butte without hassle.
Introduction: Welcome to North Dakota, the “Peace Garden State” known for its wide-open prairies, friendly small towns, and rugged Badlands scenery. Having a rental car in North Dakota is the key to truly experiencing this expansive state. From the Red River Valley in the east to the Theodore Roosevelt National Park in the west, public transportation is practically non-existent your own set of wheels lets you explore every corner on your terms. This page is your all-in-one guide to renting a car in North Dakota. We’ve packed it with unbeatable deals and insider tips so you can book with confidence and hit the road prepared. Whether you’re flying into Fargo, visiting historic forts along the Missouri River, or road-tripping to see giant roadside attractions (hello, world’s largest buffalo in Jamestown!), we’ll help you find the perfect vehicle quickly, easily, and affordably. Get ready to explore North Dakota on your schedule, with extra savings in your pocket.
Why book with AirportVanRental? Because we specialize in making the process fast, easy, and affordable:
Why Rent a Car in North Dakota?
North Dakota may have a relatively small population, but it spans over 70,000 square miles and many of its best sights are far apart. Renting a car is practically a must here. Here’s why having your own set of wheels is a smart move in North Dakota:
Top North Dakota Car Rental Deals
North Dakota offers a range of vehicle options to suit its varied travelers whether you’re a solo adventurer or traveling with a crew. Here are some top rental deals to give you an idea of what’s available (actual rates vary by date and location):
Note: “From” rates are based on rentals in major hubs (like Fargo or Bismarck) during the low season. Prices may be higher in smaller towns (e.g., Williston, Dickinson) or during peak periods (summer months, holiday weekends during hunting season, etc.). Always search with your exact pick-up location and dates to see up-to-date rates. We update this list frequently to reflect current deals and seasonal specials.
Driving in North Dakota: What to Know
Driving in North Dakota is generally a pleasure open road, minimal traffic, and expansive views. But the state’s unique conditions (think winter weather and long stretches without services) mean you should be prepared. Here are key North Dakota driving tips, rules, and local quirks to be aware of:
Traffic & Road Conditions: Outside of the cities, traffic is light. You can drive for miles on Interstate 94 or 29 and see only a few other cars, especially outside rush hour. Even in “busy” Fargo or Bismarck, rush hour means maybe a short slowdown around 8 AM or 5 PM on main arterials nothing like big-city jams. However, road conditions can vary: many rural highways are two-lane and may not be lit at night. Always stay alert for farming equipment (tractors, combines) on rural roads, especially during planting or harvest season they move slowly and can appear suddenly over a hill. On gravel county roads, drive slower and beware of dust clouds that can obscure vision and of loose surface that can make braking tricky. North Dakota’s interstates currently have a speed limit of 75 mph (increasing to 80 mph in many stretches by 2025) outside city limits enjoy the quick travel but keep an eye out for wildlife and be ready for strong crosswinds on open plains.
City Driving & Parking: Fargo and Bismarck are the largest urban areas, but they’re relatively small cities by national standards. Street layout is mostly grid-based and easy to navigate (Fargo’s numbered streets/avenues can be confusing at first, but they run N-S and E-W respectively and increase in number as you go outward). Downtown areas have some one-way streets (especially in Fargo’s core), so watch signage. Parking is generally plentiful and cheap. In downtown Fargo, for instance, street parking costs around $1/hour (and is free after 5pm and on Sundays) and there are public garages where the first hour is often free and a full day maxes out around $8-10. Bismarck and Grand Forks similarly have low-cost or free downtown parking options. Outside of downtowns, you’ll find free parking everywhere shopping centers, restaurants, hotels all have their own lots. North Dakotans are not shy about parking large trucks, so spaces tend to be roomy. Just be sure not to park in spots reserved for winter plug-in parking (some wintertime hotel lots have outlets for block heaters these might be marked) unless you need it, and never park in front of driveways or fire hydrants (you will get towed or ticketed, small towns included!).
Winter Driving: Winters in North Dakota (roughly late November through March) can be extreme. Snow, ice, and sub-zero temperatures are common, so plan and drive accordingly. If you’re visiting in winter and not used to snow driving, remember: slow and steady. Give yourself at least double the normal braking distance on icy roads. Highways are regularly plowed and treated after snowstorms, but conditions can remain slick, especially if temperatures stay too cold for salt to work (ND often sees temperatures below the salt effective range). Black ice (thin invisible ice) can form on bridges, overpasses, and shaded roadways be cautious and avoid sudden braking or acceleration if you suspect ice. Many North Dakota vehicles (including rentals) come with all-season tires which are usually sufficient, but they are not a cure-all you still need to drive carefully. It’s not common for rental cars here to have dedicated snow tires or chains (chains are generally not used on ND roads). Pro Tip: If you rent in winter, your car should be equipped with an ice scraper/snow brush check for one! Always clear all snow off your car (windows, roof, lights) before driving not only for your visibility, but it’s actually illegal to drive with obscured vision or to let snow fly off and endanger others. North Dakota can issue fines for that. Also, keep the fuel tank at least half-full (to avoid gas line freeze-ups and to ensure you have fuel if you get stuck or detoured). Many locals carry an emergency kit (blanket, flashlight, snacks) in winter a wise precaution if you’ll drive long distances in very cold weather. And absolutely check the forecast and road conditions (call 511 or use ND DOT’s road conditions map) before a long winter drive if a blizzard is coming or a “No Travel Advisory” is issued, consider delaying travel. The good news: winter brings stunning snowscapes, and on sunny winter days the roads are often clear, dry, and almost empty just you and a sparkling white landscape.
Wind & Weather: Even outside of winter, North Dakota’s weather can affect driving. The state is mostly flat prairie, so high winds are common year-round. You might feel your car buffeted especially when heading west or east. Hold the wheel steadily and give high-profile vehicles (semis, RVs) extra space as they can drift in gusts. In summer, thunderstorms can be intense with heavy rain use headlights in rain and beware of hail. If you encounter hail, it’s best to find shelter (under a gas station canopy, for example) hailstorms are usually brief but can shatter glass if large enough. Also, be mindful of flooding in spring melting snow and rain can flood some rural roads or cause temporary closures (the Red River Valley is very flat, so water can cover roads). Don’t attempt to drive through flooded sections; find an alternate route.
Wildlife on the Roads: North Dakota is wildlife country. Deer are the biggest hazard they are plentiful and often graze near roadways, especially around dawn and dusk. Hitting a deer can cause serious damage to your vehicle (and the deer), so stay alert. If you see one deer, assume more may be nearby. At night, use high-beam headlights on quiet rural roads to spot the reflection of animal eyes ahead (but dim them when oncoming cars approach). Other animals to watch for: pheasants (common in fall, they can suddenly fly up from ditches), coyotes (usually shy but might dart across lesser-traveled roads), and in the Badlands region, bison and wild horses (especially within national park boundaries where they roam freely on the road obey park speed limits and do not honk or try to rush bison, just wait for them to move). In summer, watch for cows on open range in the far west of ND some remote highways have unfenced sections. If you encounter cattle on the road, slow down or stop and steer around slowly the rancher (or a sign) will usually indicate if there’s a cattle drive or open range area.
Rules of the Road: In North Dakota (as in all U.S. states), you drive on the right-hand side of the road and pass on the left. Seat belts are mandatory for all drivers and passengers. Children must be in appropriate car seats or boosters (ND law: children under 8 must be in a child restraint unless they are 4’9” tall). Right turns on red are allowed after a complete stop, unless a sign specifically says “No Turn on Red” (not very common in ND). Fun fact: You can also turn left on red if you are on a one-way street turning onto another one-way street (this scenario might pop up in downtown Fargo or Bismarck). Always come to a full stop and yield to any traffic or pedestrians when doing so. North Dakota has a distracted driving law texting or emailing while driving is illegal for all drivers. Drivers under 18 are prohibited from using a phone at all while driving. For adults 18+, phone calls are technically permitted (hands-free or handheld) but strongly discouraged and if you drive erratically while on the phone, you can be cited. It’s best to use hands-free or pull over to make calls, as police do keep an eye out for swerving or inattentive driving. Driving under the influence (DUI) laws are strict the legal blood alcohol limit is 0.08%, and enforcement is taken seriously (especially around college towns and during events like festivals). If you go out to enjoy Fargo’s brewpubs, have a designated driver or plan to cab/rideshare back.
Fuel & Services: Fuel in North Dakota is unleaded gasoline (petrol) for virtually all rental cars (diesel is available but typically only needed if you rent a moving truck or similar). Gas prices here tend to be around or a bit below the U.S. average ND is an oil-producing state, and you’ll often find relatively cheap gas, especially in western ND near oilfields. As of recent averages, regular gas is about $3 to $4 per gallon. You’ll find gas stations readily in cities and along interstates (there are travel plazas at reasonable intervals). However, if you’re driving into more remote regions (for example, northwestern ND or the far southwestern Badlands), keep an eye on your tank. It’s not uncommon to go 50-70 miles between small towns out west. A good rule: if you’re below half a tank and about to venture into rural areas, top up when you can. Many gas stations in small towns are unmanned at night but have 24-hour credit card pumps. Also note: ND has a lot of ethanol-blended fuel (e.g., E10 which is 10% ethanol, perfectly fine for any car). Some stations offer E85 (85% ethanol) which is only for “Flex Fuel” vehicles check your rental’s fuel door or gauge for labeling; if it doesn’t explicitly say Flex Fuel/E85, stick to regular 87-octane gasoline. Before returning your rental, plan to refill within a few miles of the drop-off to avoid high refueling charges for example, in Fargo there’s a gas station just a few minutes from the airport on the route in from downtown.
Rest Areas & Amenities: If you’re doing long drives, North Dakota’s interstates have rest areas every 30-60 miles, often with restrooms, vending machines, and picnic tables (some even have free Wi-Fi). These are great for a quick break or driver swap. On two-lane highways, small towns will be your “rest stop” nearly every town, no matter how tiny, has at least one gas station or café. Don’t be shy about stopping in; North Dakotans are famously friendly, and it’s a chance to stretch your legs. In winter, rest area buildings are heated and provide a safe haven if you need to wait out bad weather.
By following these tips and using common sense, you’ll find that driving in North Dakota is straightforward and rewarding. Many say the best part of their trip was the freedom of the open road here. So stock up on your favorite road snacks, keep a highway map or GPS handy (cell coverage is generally good along major routes but can get spotty in extremely remote corners), and enjoy the journey across the prairie!
Road Trip Ideas from North Dakota
One of the greatest perks of renting a car in North Dakota is the ability to embark on legendary road trips. From sweeping prairie landscapes to rugged badland canyons, the state offers impressive variety for those willing to drive. Here are three detailed road trip ideas to inspire your travels (feel free to use these as starting points and customize as you like):
Highlights: Start in Fargo and head west on I-94. After about 90 miles, make your first stop in Jamestown, home to the World’s Largest Buffalo monument a 26-foot tall concrete bison and the National Buffalo Museum (where you might spot live buffalo, including a rare albino bison). It’s a quirky stop to stretch your legs and snap some photos. Continue west another 100 miles to Bismarck, North Dakota’s capital on the Missouri River. In Bismarck, you can visit the North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum (free admission, and a great overview of ND history from dinosaurs to the present) or take a walk around the impressive Art Deco State Capitol building (nicknamed the “Skyscraper on the Prairie”). For a bit of Old West flavor, cross the river into Mandan and visit Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park, where you can tour the reconstructed home of General Custer and an ancient Mandan Native American village plus get sweeping views of the Missouri River. From Bismarck, continue west on I-94 for about 130 miles. As you approach Medora, you’ll notice the landscape dramatically change from flat plains to colorful Badlands buttes. Medora is a charming cowboy town that serves as the gateway to Theodore Roosevelt National Park (South Unit). Drive the 36-mile scenic loop in the national park to see roaming bison, wild horses, prairie dog towns, and the stunning Painted Canyon. In Medora during summer, you can catch the famous Medora Musical (a nightly outdoor musical show that’s a North Dakota tradition) and enjoy a pitchfork steak fondue with a view of the Badlands.
Pro Tip: Summer travelers, be aware that Medora is popular book accommodation early if you plan to overnight. Also, from late September through mid-October, this route is gorgeous with fall foliage along the river valleys and the golden hues of the prairie; plus, it’s less crowded and you might catch the elk and bison herds at their most active. This road trip can be done in 1 long day (if you’re ambitious and start early), but two to three days will let you savor each stop. You can return to Fargo the same way, or for a change of scenery, consider driving back east via Hwy 200 a more northern route through small towns that rejoins I-94 later.
Highlights: Begin in Grand Forks (if you’re coming from Fargo, it’s an easy 80-mile drive north on I-29 to Grand Forks). Grand Forks is a vibrant college town (home to UND) on the Red River; grab a coffee in the downtown area or visit the lively farmers market if it’s summer. From there, head west on US-2 towards the Devils Lake region (about 90 miles). Devils Lake is North Dakota’s largest natural lake famous for fishing (walleye, perch) and its eerie, flooded landscape (the lake has been rising for years, submerging old roads and trees, giving parts a “floating forest” look). Stop at Graham’s Island State Park on Devils Lake for a picnic with lake views, or try a short hike/birdwatching this area is also known for abundant waterfowl (bring binoculars to spot pelicans and ducks). Continue west to the small town of Rugby, which proudly marks the Geographical Center of North America there’s a quirky monument where you can straddle “all sides” of the continent at once. It’s a perfect photo op and leg stretch. From Rugby, head north on Hwy 3 through peaceful farm country toward the Turtle Mountains (yes, North Dakota has some hills up here!). About 100 miles from Rugby, you’ll reach the International Peace Garden, which sits right on the border of the US and Canada (North Dakota/Manitoba). The Peace Garden is a beautiful 2,300-acre park with manicured gardens, lakes, and monuments celebrating the long friendship between the two countries. You can literally walk across the border inside the park. Don’t miss the floral clock, the 9/11 memorial made from World Trade Center steel, and scenic overlooks of the Turtle Mountain forest (a striking contrast to the flat plains you’ve driven through).
Pro Tip: Bring your passport! While you typically don’t go through formal border customs when entering the Peace Garden from the U.S. side and returning, if you plan to exit into Canada or vice versa, you will need your documents. Also note that the Peace Garden has an entrance fee (around $20 per vehicle). If time permits, consider an overnight at Lake Metigoshe area (near Bottineau) this is a lovely forested lake retreat popular with locals. On your way back, you could swing through Minot (the region’s biggest city, with a strong Scandinavian heritage check out the Scandinavian Heritage Park with its full-size Norwegian stave church replica). This prairie lakes and borderlands trip showcases North Dakota’s quieter beauty and cultural quirks away from the interstate.
Highlights: This route roughly follows the path of explorers Lewis and Clark through North Dakota, alongside the mighty Missouri River. Start in Bismarck, then cross the Missouri River on Hwy 83 to head toward Washburn (about 40 miles north). Near Washburn, visit Fort Mandan a replica of the fort where Lewis and Clark’s Corps of Discovery spent the winter of 1804-1805. The adjacent Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center provides fascinating exhibits on their journey and on Sakakawea (Sacagawea) who joined the expedition here. Next, continue north on Hwy 83 and west on Hwy 200 towards Lake Sakakawea, the huge reservoir created by Garrison Dam. At Pick City/Riverdale, take a detour to see Garrison Dam itself one of the largest earthen dams in the world. There’s a visitor center and you can gaze out at Lake Sakakawea’s expanse (it has more shoreline than California’s coast!). Cross over the dam and continue on Hwy 200 towards New Town, located on the Fort Berthold Indian Reservation. Near New Town, you can’t miss the impressive Four Bears Bridge adorned with native tribal art as you drive across, enjoy panoramic views of the lake’s bays and buttes. This area is the heart of the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation consider stopping at the Earth Lodge Village (seasonal) just outside New Town to see reconstructed earth lodges and learn about the tribal culture. From New Town, head north on Hwy 1804 (named after the year Lewis & Clark came through) towards Williston (approx 70 miles). Along this stretch, history buffs should stop at Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site (right near the Montana border) it’s a reconstructed 1828 fur trade fort where seven Indian tribes once traded; the setting is incredibly scenic on bluffs above the Missouri. Finish in Williston, the boomtown of the oil-rich Bakken region. Near Williston, you can also visit Theodore Roosevelt National Park’s North Unit (about 15 miles south of Williston via Hwy 1804/85) if you haven’t gotten your fill of Badlands the North Unit features the stunning layered formations of the Cannonball Concretions and tends to be quieter than the South Unit.
Pro Tip: This drive is rich in history consider bringing along an audiobook or podcast about Lewis & Clark to listen to as you follow their trail. Cell service can be spotty in sections here, so download maps offline. Communities are spaced out top off your gas in larger towns like Washburn, New Town, or Williston. And if you’re doing this in summer, pack bug spray the Missouri River basin can get mosquito-heavy on warm evenings (those Lewis and Clark journals weren’t kidding about the mosquitoes!).
Each of these road trips showcases a different side of North Dakota from Old West heritage and national parks to serene lakes and cross-border gardens. With unlimited mileage on your rental, you can mix and match parts of these trips or even combine them into one grand tour. The beauty of having a car here is that you set the agenda. Happy trails and enjoy the drive!
Quick-Reference Info Box: North Dakota Car Rental at a Glance
Frequently Asked Questions
The minimum rental age in North Dakota is generally 21 years old. However, renters aged 21–24 will typically pay a “young driver” surcharge (usually around $25–$30 per day) and may be limited to certain vehicle categories. All major rental companies in ND rent to drivers 25+ with no surcharge, and some will rent to 18-20 year olds under special corporate contracts or for an extra fee (policies vary by company). If you’re under 25, check the terms expect an additional fee and be prepared with a valid credit card and driver’s license.
Possibly, but it depends on the rental company and location. Most major rental locations (especially at airports like Fargo FAR) prefer a credit card in the driver’s name for the security deposit. A credit card makes the process smoother, as the agency will place a hold (often $200 or more above the rental cost) on the card. Some companies will accept a debit card (Visa or MasterCard logo) but often require additional steps: a credit check, proof of return travel (e.g., your flight itinerary), or placing a larger cash deposit. Also, with debit cards, rentals might be limited to certain car classes and you usually cannot rent luxury vehicles. Tip: If you plan to use a debit card, call the specific rental location in advance to verify their policy. And ensure the debit card has enough funds for the hold. Note that prepaid cards or cash are generally not accepted at pick-up (though you can usually pay cash at return after the hold is released). Our recommendation: use a credit card if at all possible for a hassle-free experience.
Good news North Dakota has no toll roads. You can drive all over the state without paying any road tolls. The interstate highways (I-94 east-west, I-29 north-south) and other routes are all free. The only time you might encounter a toll is if you venture into neighboring states that have them. For example, driving east into Minnesota or south into South Dakota, you still won’t hit tolls (Minnesota and SD have none either). If you drove far enough west or south to, say, Montana or Kansas, also no tolls on main interstates. The nearest tolls are way out in states like Oklahoma or Illinois. Bottom line: you don’t need to worry about toll passes in ND. If you do plan a longer road trip beyond the no-toll Midwest, most rental cars in the U.S. come with optional toll transponders (for systems like E-ZPass) ask at pick-up if needed. But for North Dakota and immediate neighbors, your routes will be toll-free. So just enjoy the drive!
Yes! Driving into Canada from North Dakota is a popular excursion, and most rental companies allow it. North Dakota shares a long border with Canadian provinces Manitoba and Saskatchewan, and there are several major border crossings (Pembina–Emerson being the busiest on I-29/Highway 75). Typically, you can drive a U.S. rental car into Canada as long as you return it in the U.S. (one-way cross-border drop-offs are rarely allowed). Important: When picking up your car, tell the agent you plan to go into Canada. They will usually provide a “Canada Non-Resident Insurance Card” or ensure the proof of insurance is valid for Canada (the rental’s insurance covers Canada/U.S., but the documentation helps). There’s often no additional fee for Canada travel with U.S. rentals, but do verify. You’ll need your passport (or appropriate travel documents) to cross the border and return to the U.S. The border agents may ask whose car it is you can show the rental agreement. Also, if you rented with unlimited mileage, it stays unlimited even across the border (just keep in mind distances Winnipeg is ~3.5 hours from Fargo, etc.). Gas in Canada is sold in liters and a bit more expensive; credit cards usually work fine at Canadian pumps. One more tip: check border hours for smaller crossings; some close at night. Major ones like Pembina are 24-hour. Enjoy your international road trip!
Gas prices in North Dakota tend to be around the U.S. average or a touch lower. As of this year, regular unleaded is roughly $3–$3.50 per gallon (this can fluctuate with oil markets and season). You might find slightly cheaper prices in the west near oil-producing areas and slightly higher in more remote small towns (due to transport costs), but the differences aren’t huge maybe ±$0.20 compared to national average. All rentals are provided with a full tank, and it’s almost always required to return the car full to avoid extra charges. So yes, plan to stop at a gas station and fill up right before you drop off the car. If you don’t, the rental company will refuel it but at a much higher per-gallon rate (often double the pump price). We suggest noting the closest gas station to your drop-off location and fueling up within a few miles of it. For example, near Fargo Airport, there are convenient gas stations along 19th Ave North and on University Drive that are just minutes from the terminal perfect for topping off on your way in. Pro Tip: Save your fuel receipt, just in case there’s any question about the fuel level upon return (it’s rare, but it’s good proof if needed). Also, when driving long distances in ND, consider refilling when you hit half a tank, as mentioned earlier it’s a safe practice in rural areas so you’re never in danger of running low.
Beyond the major road trip stops we detailed above, here are a few more ideas you can easily drive to with your rental car: • Enchanted Highway: A 32-mile stretch of county highway south of Gladstone, ND adorned with massive metal sculptures (world’s largest tin family, giant grasshoppers, etc.). It’s a delightful detour off I-94 as you approach Dickinson truly only doable by car. • Salem Sue in New Salem: Ever wanted to see the world’s largest Holstein cow? Salem Sue, a giant fiberglass cow on a hill, overlooks I-94 about 30 miles west of Bismarck. A quick pull-off in New Salem gets you up close talk about a unique photo op! • Knife River Indian Villages NHS: Near Stanton (about 1 hour northwest of Bismarck), you can drive to this national historic site to see the remains of an ancient Native American (Hidatsa) village. Explore earth lodge reproductions and learn about the life of the Plains tribes (Sakakawea lived here). • The Maah Daah Hey Trail (access points): If you’re into mountain biking or hiking, this famous 144-mile trail weaves through the Badlands. With a car, you can access trailheads like CCC Camp or Elkhorn Campground. Even if you don’t bike it, a short hike on a segment offers stunning solitude and views. • Scandinavian Heritage Park in Minot: If your travels take you to Minot, drive over to this charming park that features a full-size replica Gol Stave Church from Norway, Finnish sauna, Danish windmill, and more a nod to the region’s Nordic settlers. Parking is free and easy. • Medora to Bowman via Hwy 85 (Dakota Prairie Scenic Byway): This drive isn’t on everyone’s radar, but taking US-85 south from Medora down to Bowman (in the southwest corner of ND) offers rolling prairies and views into the Little Missouri Grassland. Very peaceful and you might see pronghorn (antelope) along the way. At Bowman, the Pioneer Trails Regional Museum showcases local dino fossils and pioneer artifacts a worthy stop if you like offbeat museums. All these spots (and many more across ND) become easily accessible with a car. North Dakota invites exploration there are quirky roadside attractions, scenic overlooks, and historic markers spread out over many miles. Having your own vehicle ensures you won’t miss out on any hidden gems between the “big” destinations. Enjoy the adventure!
Summer: North Dakota summers are warm and often sunny great for road trips. A few tips: Use sunscreen (the sun is strong on the open plains, even through car windows). Be prepared for thunderstorms if you see lightning or dark skies, you might encounter a sudden downpour or hail, so drive cautiously. Road construction (“orange cone season”) peaks in summer, so allow a bit of extra time in case you hit a construction zone with reduced speeds or detours. Also, popular tourist spots like Medora can be busy in July/August; parking in the national park is still usually fine, but campgrounds might fill up reserve ahead if needed. Winter: We covered a lot under Winter Driving above, but in short winter requires more planning. Always check the ND DOT road conditions if weather is iffy. Keep your car’s gas tank fuller and consider carrying a winter survival kit on longer drives. It’s wise to stick to plowed main highways after a snowfall (the interstate and primary US highways get cleared first). If you’re not comfortable on ice, wait a few hours after a storm for road crews to work. And note, North Dakota does an excellent job clearing roads, but extreme cold (below -20°F) can still create slick spots even on sunny days because salt is less effective, they may use sand. If you see blue or white flashing lights ahead on highways in winter, that usually indicates snow plows stay back and don’t pass them unless directed. The benefit of winter travel: gorgeous snowy vistas, no crowds, and you might have viewpoints all to yourself (just dress warmly when you step out!). Whether summer’s green fields or winter’s white blanket, each season offers a unique beauty just drive accordingly.