Traill County: Trails, Gardens and History

At Island Park in Mayville, water is a defining feature of the landscape: the park is largely surrounded by an oxbow area of the Goose River. A 2.5-mile walking and biking trail leads from the park to the eastern edge of Portland. The park is on North Dakota Highway 200. During a visit outdoors, you can experience both the river landscape and a clearly described trail connection.

Waterways and Garden Spaces

Different areas of the Rainbow Garden appeal to different interests. Visitors may take samples in the Herb Garden; these opportunities may change. The labyrinth consists of a circular path leading to a center. Children can climb on large rocks in the Rock Garden. Sampling plants, following a path to its center or exploring rocks: the garden areas offer different ways to enjoy a visit.

There are also several specific options for getting active. Mayville Disc Golf is an 18-hole disc golf course established in 2017. The Mayville Golf Club runs along the meandering Goose River. The Mayville Water Park offers swimming; it is seasonal, so check current operating details before visiting.

The grounds at Hillsboro’s Woodland Park are suitable for picnics, family gatherings and special events. The outdoor pool there has a children’s pool, a diving board and a waterslide. As with this seasonal swimming option, it’s best to plan around current operating details.

Events and Regional Cuisine

Different times of year are worth considering for an event-focused visit: Hillsboro Days usually takes place in the third week of June, while the annual classic car show, Cruise to the Island, is held in September. Since dates can change, check the current events calendar for your travel year.

A regional specialty is also on the menu: Paula's Steakhouse and Lounge serves Potato Klub, a German-Norwegian specialty. If you’re planning specifically to try the dish, check in advance whether it’s currently available.

Architecture, Museums and Culture

The Plummer House combines a specific architectural style with a precisely dated historic building: it is a three-story, Queen Anne-style brick house built in 1897 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Restored woodwork is among its architectural details.

The collections offer further insights into the region’s history. The Centennial Building houses military and pioneer collections; the Pioneer Ag Museum traces the development of agriculture over the years. The museum complex also includes the interdenominational St. Olaf Chapel and the one-room Bloomfield #1 schoolhouse from the 1920s.

The collection at the Goose River Heritage Center includes, among other things, a barber shop, a classroom, pioneer clothing, a pioneer kitchen, military collections and pioneer machinery. The historic Fokker aircraft “Alaskan” is housed in a separate building at the Hatton-Eielson Museum. Mayville State University offers a different perspective on local culture through its active arts, music and theater scene. The Delchar cinema was built in 1927.

Plan Your Stay Around Your Interests

Tailor your search to your travel plans rather than starting with a general idea of what makes a suitable stay.

Destinations in neighboring cities can also be part of your plans. Event venues, museums and entertainment in Fargo, Moorhead, Grand Forks and other neighboring cities within a 40-mile radius are just a short drive from Traill County. Check current information for seasonal swimming options and recurring events; opportunities to sample items in the garden and restaurant offerings can also change.

More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Hatton, Eddy County, Lamoure County, Morton County, Dunn County, Stutsman, Nelson, Mercer.

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