America's Best Idea

Theodore Roosevelt National Park

With the world on pause due to the global pandemic since March, the Summer of 2020 brought a different vibe. The question lingered: to travel or not to travel. It was a unique time for all of us – juggling the uncertainty of returning to school in person, navigating online teaching, and coping with canceled travel plans. We adapted to a new way of living, an experience I never thought we'd face, yet we moved forward with our plans, making a few minor adjustments along the way.

I had signed up for several races to compete in, but unfortunately, they all got canceled and turned into virtual runs, except for one race that stood strong. This marked my first pandemic flight, and the appeal of budget-friendly flights and car rentals made it an exciting time to travel – I wish Covid prices stuck around. Equipped with safety precautions like wearing a mask, carrying hand sanitizer, and antibacterial hand wipes, I was ready for takeoff. Traveling during these times didn't create fear; instead, a simple thought stuck with me: "You can't stop living. You gotta just keep going." And that's exactly what I did.

Joined by my mom, we headed to Medora, North Dakota for my first trail run. The Maah Daah Hey series offer races from 3.1 to an impressive 106 miles. This trail, named in the Mandan Indian language, means "an area that has been or will be around for a long time." The turtle, the MDH symbol, is highly significant for the Lakota Indians, embodying qualities like patience, determination, steadfastness, long life, and fortitude.

In a challenging global time, these qualities connected deeply. Patience was key as the world faced uncertainties. Determination helped adapt to new norms, while steadfastness supported those dealing with unexpected challenges. Long life took on a broader meaning, emphasizing resilience and enduring spirit. Fortitude, embodied by the turtle, mirrored the strength needed globally.

This race stands out as one of my favorites, offering a truly scenic experience. Setting a personal best time was a surprise, but the true joy came from just being there and my mom cheering me on at the finish line.

Post-race, we ventured into Theodore Roosevelt National Park, named in honor of the nature-loving president. Before taking office, Theodore Roosevelt lived in this area, deeply impacted by the Badlands, inspiring his dedication to conservation. This commitment led to the creation of the National Forest Service and the preservation of extensive natural areas, including iconic sites like Yosemite and the Grand Canyon.

This park is split into three units – North, South, and Elkhorn Ranch – and they're in different time zones. On our trip, we explored the south unit, the park's largest and most popular section. We took on the 36-mile Scenic Loop and encountered our first bison traffic jam! Yep, these furry giants caused quite a hold-up. That roadblock hung around for a solid 45 minutes until those bison decided to clear the way. An unexpected delay, but hey, it added a unique twist to the adventure!

Pulling off at one of the stops, we visited Wind Canyon Trail. Mom, with her newspaper in hand, stayed in the car while I hopped out. Less than half a mile in, and there it was – a wind-sculpted canyon, badlands rock formations, and the most fantastic view of the Little Missouri River. Epic scenery packed into a short distance!

After an exciting day, we got tickets for the Medora musical – an outdoor show celebrating Medora's history, Teddy Roosevelt, and the American West. Set against the scenic Badlands backdrop, it's a vibrant performance that brings history to life through storytelling and music, creating a captivating and memorable experience. What made it even more special was seeing people enjoying themselves, spending quality time with family and friends, and immersing in a show that offered a welcome break from the frantic state of the world for months.

Our time in Medora was unforgettable. From exploring the historical town to the breathtaking trails and the lively Medora musical, every moment left a lasting impression. The train run, with its scenic beauty and historical significance, added an extra layer to our experience. A fun discovery in town was an old-school gas pump at the convenience store. I hadn't seen one in forever, and it was a nostalgic delight watching the numbers scroll without a digital screen. With a full tank of gas we drove off and left with a deeper appreciation for this special place and its unique blend of history and small-town charm.