Northwest North Dakota breathes in long, slow syllables across prairie wind. This is the quadrant where the grid thins and the map folds at its quietest crease. Out here, towns like Zahl and Crosby ride the edge of the sky, tucked between amber wheat fields and soft-spoken hills. They linger far from the thunder of interstates and closer to the pulse of rattling cottonwoods and horizon-line calm.
This is the Williston Basin, named for the boomtown but defined by what came before and what still resists speed. Before fracking rigs and before fence lines, this was Hidatsa and Assiniboine land. Today, it’s a canvas of low population, high sky, and towns that keep their own counsel. Here, a streetlamp flickers and holds the dark like it matters.
Zahl’s population hovers around a dozen; Hanks barely registers. Yet the stories stack up—grain elevators, abandoned schoolhouses, ghost diners painted in prairie light. A short drive from Crosby, the Writing Rock State Historic Site guards sacred petroglyphs carved long before Lewis and Clark squinted west.
Solitude runs deep here, steady as the wind across the wheat. Spend enough time, and the land recalibrates you.
10. Zahl: The Secluded Corner of the Northwest
Zahl is a tiny unincorporated community with a population hovering around 15 people. Here, you can immerse yourself in the tranquility of the open plains, where the skies seem endless and the sunsets are breathtaking. While there aren’t typical tourist attractions, the area is perfect for birdwatching and photography, capturing the untouched beauty of North Dakota’s landscape.
The main industries are agriculture and ranching, with local farms dotting the horizon. What makes Zahl truly secluded is its minimal population and the vast distances between homes, giving you a real sense of solitude that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Where is Zahl?
Zahl is located in the extreme northwest corner of North Dakota, just a few miles from the Canadian border.
Its remote location contributes significantly to its seclusion, as it’s far from major highways and urban centers. To get there, take Highway 85 north from Williston and then head west on a series of smaller county roads.
The journey itself is part of the charm, leading you through peaceful countryside and rolling prairies. The isolation of Zahl makes it an ideal spot for those looking to disconnect and enjoy the simplicity of rural life.
9. Hanks: Lost in the Tranquility of the Open Plains
Hanks is another unincorporated community with a population of less than 10 people, offering an unmatched level of peace and quiet.
The town is surrounded by expansive fields and gentle rolling hills, making it perfect for nature walks and contemplative solitude. While there aren’t any commercial attractions, exploring the remnants of historic buildings hint at its past.
Agriculture is the primary industry here, with vast farmlands stretching as far as the eye can see. Hanks’ seclusion comes from its virtually nonexistent population and the miles of open land that separate it from neighboring towns.
Where is Hanks?
Located in Williams County, Hanks sits northwest of Williston, nestled close to the Montana border. Its remote setting is accentuated by the lack of major roads passing through, making it a quiet retreat away from traffic and noise.
To reach Hanks, drive west from Williston on Highway 2 and then venture onto lesser-known county roads that wind through the prairie. The journey is a peaceful one, with the vast landscape providing a serene backdrop. Hanks’ isolation is ideal for anyone seeking a deep sense of escape from the bustle of everyday life.
8. Epping: A Retreat into North Dakota’s Quiet Countryside
With a population of around 100 residents, Epping offers a small-town feel that is incredibly welcoming.
The town is surrounded by vast farmlands, providing ample opportunities for scenic drives and photography. For activities, you can visit the nearby Epping-Springbrook Dam Recreation Area, a hidden gem for fishing, picnicking, and enjoying the outdoors.
The main industries are agriculture and some oil production, but the pace of life remains slow and relaxed. Epping’s seclusion is due to its small population and the expansive rural surroundings that make it feel miles away from the nearest city.
Where is Epping?
Epping is situated in Williams County, about 20 miles northeast of Williston. Its location off the beaten path contributes to its quiet atmosphere, with minimal traffic passing through.
Get there by taking Highway 2 east from Williston and then turning north onto Route 42. The town’s setting amidst rolling fields and wide-open spaces reinforces its secluded nature. For those looking to unwind in a peaceful rural environment, Epping is a delightful escape.
7. Lunds Valley: The Quiet Beauty of Unspoiled Nature
Lunds Valley is an unincorporated area with a sparse population that emphasizes its serene environment. The region is characterized by rolling hills and valleys, which are perfect for hiking and nature photography.
There aren’t any commercial activities, but the natural scenery provides a backdrop for relaxation and exploration. Agriculture remains the mainstay of the local economy, with family-owned farms scattered throughout the area.
What makes Lunds Valley secluded is its untouched landscapes and the feeling of being enveloped by nature without the interruptions of modern life.
Where is Lunds Valley?
Located in Mountrail County, Lunds Valley lies east of Tioga, nestled among the gentle hills of northwest North Dakota. Its isolation is heightened by the absence of major roads and the low population density of the county.
To reach Lunds Valley, drive east from Tioga on Highway 2 and then navigate through smaller county roads that lead into the heart of the valley.
The journey offers picturesque views that make the trip worthwhile. The seclusion of Lunds Valley is ideal for those who wish to immerse themselves in the quiet beauty of nature.
6. White Earth: Tranquility at the Edge of the Plains
White Earth is a small community with around 50 residents, offering a peaceful atmosphere where the prairie meets the sky. The town is a great spot for those interested in wildlife, as the nearby White Earth Valley offers opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying undisturbed habitats.
Agriculture is the main industry, with wheat fields and pastures dominating the landscape. The seclusion of White Earth comes from its small size and lack of urban development, allowing you to experience the simplicity of rural living.
Where is White Earth?
Situated in Mountrail County, White Earth is located southeast of Tioga and northeast of Stanley. Its position away from major highways enhances its secluded feel. Access it via Highway 2, turning onto smaller county roads that weave through the countryside.
The journey through open fields and gentle hills contributes to the sense of escape. White Earth’s remote location makes it a perfect destination for those seeking tranquility away from crowded places.
5. Ambrose: A Tiny Town with Endless Horizons
Ambrose is a small town with a population of about 25 people, offering a quiet setting where open landscapes stretch as far as the eye can see. Visit the nearby lakes for fishing and the peaceful countryside for leisurely walks.
The primary industry is agriculture, with a focus on grain farming. What makes Ambrose secluded is its minimal population and the vast expanses of farmland surrounding it, providing ample space for reflection and solitude.
Where is Ambrose?
Located in Divide County near the Canadian border, Ambrose is northwest of Crosby. Its remote location contributes to its tranquility, with few travelers passing through.
Reach Ambrose by taking Highway 5 west from Crosby and then heading north on local roads. The town’s isolation amidst the vast plains makes it an ideal spot for those looking to disconnect and enjoy the quietude of rural North Dakota.
4. Alamo: Secluded Serenity on the Western Plains
Alamo is a tiny community with around 50 residents, offering a serene environment perfect for escaping city life. The area is great for outdoor activities like hunting and wildlife observation, with prairies and wetlands nearby.
Agriculture is the main industry, focusing on crops like wheat and canola. Alamo’s seclusion stems from its small population and the miles of open land that buffer it from larger towns, creating a peaceful retreat.
Where is Alamo?
Situated in Williams County, Alamo lies northwest of Williston. Its position far from major highways enhances its secluded atmosphere. Get there by driving west from Williston on Highway 2 and then north on smaller county roads.
The vast open spaces and minimal traffic make the journey to Alamo a peaceful one, reinforcing its appeal as a secluded destination.
3. Keene: Rustic Tranquility in the Heart of McKenzie County
Keene is an unincorporated area with a population of about 50 people, surrounded by the unspoiled beauty of rural North Dakota. The town is close to the Arnegard Dam Recreation Area, where you can enjoy fishing and picnicking by the water.
The main industries are agriculture and some oil production, but the community maintains a quiet, rustic charm. Keene’s seclusion is due to its sparse population and the rolling landscapes that offer a sense of peaceful isolation.
Where is Keene?
Located in McKenzie County, Keene is southeast of Williston and north of Watford City. Its remote setting is accentuated by the surrounding prairies and minimal development.
To reach Keene, take Highway 23 east from Watford City, then head north on local roads. The journey through the open countryside adds to the feeling of seclusion, making Keene a perfect spot for those seeking a quiet escape.
2. Charlson: A Peaceful Hamlet Amid Rolling Hills
Charlson is an unincorporated community with a handful of residents, offering a tranquil atmosphere amidst North Dakota’s gentle hills. The nearby Lake Sakakawea provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and enjoying the waterfront.
Agriculture and ranching are the main industries, contributing to the area’s rustic character. Charlson’s seclusion comes from its tiny population and the expansive rural areas that surround it, making it an ideal location for solitude.
Where is Charlson?
Charlson is located in McKenzie County, east of Watford City and near the shores of Lake Sakakawea. Its position away from major roads enhances its quiet ambiance.
Reach Charlson by taking Highway 23 east from Watford City and then turning onto smaller county roads that lead toward the lake. The scenic drive through rolling hills and open fields reinforces the town’s secluded nature, perfect for a peaceful retreat.
1. Crosby: Nearby Writing Rock State Historic Site
Crosby is a small but charming city in Divide County, North Dakota, with a population of just over 1,000 people. Nestled near the Canadian border, it boasts a quiet, peaceful atmosphere surrounded by rolling prairies and open skies, making it a serene retreat from the busier parts of the state.
The area offers unique attractions, such as the nearby Writing Rock State Historic Site, which showcases ancient Native American petroglyphs. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities like birdwatching, fishing, and hiking in the picturesque countryside.
The local economy is supported by agriculture and energy industries, with farming and oil production playing significant roles. What makes Crosby secluded is its distance from major urban centers, offering residents and visitors alike a tranquil escape into North Dakota’s scenic northwest.
Where is Crosby?
Located in Divide County, Crosby lies near the Canadian border, offering a peaceful atmosphere and a sense of solitude surrounded by rolling prairies. Its remote location in the northwest corner of North Dakota gives it a serene, tucked-away charm.
To get there, take Highway 5 west from Williston, enjoying the wide-open landscapes and peaceful countryside. Crosby’s tranquil setting and distance from urban centers make it an ideal destination for those looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and quietude of the northern plains.
