Best Places to Fly
Your Drone in Bismarck
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Bismarck Drone Flying
Locations Map
1. The Enchanted Highway
Head over to The Enchanted Highway in North Dakota if you want some drone footage with a difference. Here you can see a collection of huge scrap metal sculptures, each one commanding attention. The artwork changes at set intervals along a 32-mile stretch of the highway.
The abstract works of art include the Tin Family (1991), Teddy Rides Again (1993), Pheasants on the Prairie (1996), Grasshoppers in the Field (1999), Geese in Flight (2001), Deer Crossing (2002), Fisherman’s Dream (2006), and the most recent one, the Spider Web.
2. Fort Rice Recreation Area
The Fort Rice Recreation Area is primarily a campground with a wide open field and a boat ramp with access to the Missouri River. Flying a drone here should give you a good view of the nearby Fort Rice State Historic Site, a historic fort and field base. The scenery here is beautiful but not spectacular, although drone pilots will certainly appreciate the freedom that the open space offers.
3. Cross Ranch State Park
The Cross Ranch State Park is a popular tourist destination year-round. Camping is common here during the warmer months, while cabins and yurts provide a comfortable respite during winter. There is plenty of open space here to explore either by drone or by foot.
4. Fort Lincoln State Park
The oldest state park in North Dakota, the Fort Lincoln State Park offers a couple of unique experiences. While it has the usual hiking trails and cabins for rent, it also has historical structures such as the reconstructed Earthlodges of the Mandan Village and the reconstructed quarters and barracks of the old fort. There is plenty of the space within the park and across the Missouri River to fly your drone and document this historically significant site.
5. Pioneer Overlook Park
Pioneer Park is a popular destination for Bismarck locals to take relaxing walks, bike along the somewhat challenging trails, or have a picnic. It is also one of the common go-to spots of local drone pilots. Pioneer has lots of open space for your drone to take off and has very nice views of the nearby creek and river. Just to the east of the park is Chief Looking's Village, which you can also photograph with a drone.
