Choosing Your Stops – Priorities and Trade‑offs
Start by ranking what matters most: speed, scenery, budget, or activity focus. Air travel wins on speed, especially from Denver, but may limit flexibility if flight times are narrow. Train travel adds a scenic cross‑country experience on the Empire Builder, yet requires advance ticket purchase at distant staffed stations. Driving gives full control over side trips to nearby lakes and the preserve, but demands attention to winter road conditions. Seasonal goals also shape choices—winter sports need reliable snow‑covered roads, while summer lake recreation benefits from early arrival to secure boat‑launch spots. Weigh these factors against personal comfort with self‑drive logistics versus reliance on scheduled services.
Suggested Flexible Visit Sequence
A practical flow begins with your chosen entry point—airport or train station—then a short drive to White Horse Hill National Game Preserve for a half‑day wildlife drive. After the preserve, head east on US 2 to the lake’s shoreline for water‑based activities (boating, fishing, swimming) in summer or cross‑country skiing and ice fishing in winter. Use the afternoon to explore scenic drives along US 2, stopping at viewpoints or nearby lakes such as Chain Lake. If time permits, loop back to the city for lodging and a final sunset over the lake. This sequence can be reordered: train arrivals from the east may start with the lake, while western flyers might tackle the preserve first. Adjust based on weather forecasts and any early‑closing notices for the preserve.
Getting There – Air Travel
Devils Lake Regional Airport (48.1091, ‑98.9039) offers SkyWest/United Express service to and from Denver via Jamestown, plus general‑aviation facilities. The airport sits at 106 National Guard St NW, just west of town where 4th St NW becomes State Route 19 W. No on‑site car‑rental or shuttle details are listed, so travelers should confirm parking, rental, or private‑transfer options in advance. Verify current flight times on the airline’s website, as schedules can shift seasonally. If you need a private plane or charter, the general‑aviation side can accommodate, but contact the airport directly for runway availability and fuel services.
Getting There – Train Travel
The Amtrak Empire Builder stops at Devils Lake station (48.110337, ‑98.861511) on 350 Railroad Avenue. The station is unstaffed; ticket agents are located 60 mi west in Rugby (Mon‑Fri) and 85 mi east in Grand Forks (daily). Purchase tickets online or at those stations before arrival. The Empire Builder provides a scenic link between Seattle/Portland and Chicago, making it ideal for travelers who value the rail experience. Arrange a rental car or rideshare from the station, as on‑site services are not provided. Check Amtrak’s timetable for exact stop times and any service alerts before departure.
Driving & Scenic Routes
US Highway 2 cuts through the southern edge of Devils Lake, connecting Minot (≈2 hrs west) and Grand Forks (≈1.5 hrs east). State Route 19 W links the city center to the airport, while Highway 20 leads south toward Fort Totten and the White Horse Hill Preserve. This network supports flexible day trips to nearby lakes—Chain Lake, Lake Irvine, Dry Lake, Sweet Water Lake—and scenic pull‑outs. In winter, monitor snow reports and possible road closures, especially on secondary routes. No tolls are reported, but verify any municipal parking restrictions in downtown Devils Lake before setting out.
White Horse Hill National Game Preserve Visit
Located at 2107 Park Dr, St Michael (48, ‑98.941667), the preserve offers a drive‑through wildlife corridor featuring buffalo, elk, deer, and prairie dogs. An interpretive center operates until early afternoon; entry costs $2 per vehicle or $12 for an annual pass. Visitors must remain in their cars after passing the automated gates, which provide daytime access only. The park closes at sunset and may shut early if thunderstorms or snow are forecast within 48 hours. Plan a half‑day slot, bring cash or a card for the fee, and check the USFWS website for any temporary closures before you go.
Lake‑Based Outdoor Activities
Devils Lake is North Dakota’s largest natural lake, spanning roughly 120,000 acres with 375 miles of shoreline. Summer highlights include boating, fishing, swimming, water‑skiing, and photography. Winter opens cross‑country skiing, snowmobiling, and ice fishing opportunities. While specific launch sites or rental operators are not listed, the lake’s size supports multiple access points. Determine whether you’ll bring your own gear or rent locally, and research marinas or ski‑area operators ahead of time. Always verify lake‑condition reports—especially ice thickness in winter—to ensure safety.
Seasonal Considerations & Weather
The preserve’s gate system may close early for thunderstorms or snow forecasts within 48 hours, so keep an eye on local weather updates in the days leading up to your visit. Winter brings reliable snow for cross‑country skiing and snowmobiling, but also potential road closures on US 2 and Highway 20; check the North Dakota Department of Transportation for real‑time conditions. Summer storms can develop quickly, affecting lake safety and photography plans. Pack layered clothing for rapid temperature shifts, rain gear for summer showers, and insulated gear for winter excursions. Adjust activity priorities if severe weather threatens any scheduled outdoor component.
