If you think you know North Dakota, think again! In the latest episode of Travels with Darley, host and executive producer Darley Newman takes viewers on an unforgettable road trip along Highway 2—stretching from the "Magic City" of Minot through the legendary Devils Lake area, and ending in vibrant Grand Forks.
Along the way, Darley uncovers a side of the Peace Garden State that even many locals haven't fully explored, filled with rich Scandinavian heritage, incredible local art, outdoor recreation, and unexpected culinary finds.
Here is a look at what makes the stop at Devils Lake so special, along with why you need to tune into the full episode.
A Sacred Journey & Natural Wonders in Devils Lake
When traveling east from Minot along Highway 2, the landscape opens up into the stunning, water-carved terrain of the Devils Lake region. Darley’s time here highlights a powerful mix of history, culture, and outdoor adventure:
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White Horse Hill National Game Preserve: Darley explores this breathtaking natural area, home to roaming bison and elk herds, lush wetlands, and rare North Dakota woodlands. Standing atop White Horse Hill offers a sweeping 90-mile view of the landscape.
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Honoring Indigenous Roots: The preserve was officially renamed in 2019 at the request of the Spirit Lake Nation to honor a sacred wild white stallion from local oral history. As Kenneth Graywater Jr. of Ski Jump Adventure Spirit Lake shares in the episode, sharing the story and treating the sacred land with respect is central to the Dakota people.
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Historic Downtown & Local Brews: In downtown Devils Lake, historic 19th-century architecture blends seamlessly with modern community spots. Darley stops by Black Paw’s Brewing Company—housed in a beautifully restored historic building—to toast the brewery's mascot, a gentle giant Newfoundland dog named Norm.
World-Class Fishing on the Lake
You can’t visit Devils Lake without talking about its legendary fishing! Spanning over 200,000 acres, the lake offers an incredible food base for local wildlife and anglers alike.
Darley joins local guide Steve "Zippy" Doll of Perch Patrol Guiding Service and reels in a massive fish in under five minutes! Afterward, she stops by the family-owned Woodland Resort, where local guides clean your catch so the resort's restaurant can serve it up fresh—blackened, spiced, and straight from the lake to your plate.
Why You Need to Watch the Full Video
Devils Lake is just one piece of this incredible road trip! To get the complete picture of what Highway 2 has to offer, you’ll want to stream the entire episode. Here is a sneak peek at what else Darley experiences:
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Minot: Suit up in traditional Norwegian attire (bunad) at the world's only park dedicated to all five Nordic countries, sweat it out in a hand-built timber sauna, and marvel at North Dakota’s largest public art project painted on massive downtown grain silos.
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Grand Forks: Go behind the scenes at the world-famous Ralph Engelstad Arena (home to UND Hockey), devour award-winning 5-meat "T-Rex" rooftop pizza, taste cold-climate wines at a family winery, and sample traditional lefse at the local farmer's market.
From small-city charm and deep-rooted traditions to hidden road-trip gems, this episode proves there is so much to discover along North Dakota's prairies.
Ready to hit the road? Watch the full episode of Travels with Darley to experience the full journey along Highway 2 for yourself!