The landscape of the Maah Daah Hey Trail is more than just visually stunning; it’s a journey through history. This trail, perfect for your next “Hey Bike” adventure, cuts through land that was once the heartland of numerous Badlands tribes until the late 19th century. Predominantly, these were the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara nations, but also included the Assiniboine, Blackfoot, Chippewa, Crow, and Oglala and Lakota Sioux. In fact, the Maah Daah Hey isn’t just any trail; it’s part of an ancient network used for intertribal trading and hunting. This network stretched extensively to South Dakota, Montana, and near Stanton, North Dakota, to the Knife River Indian villages. It was here, in 1804, that Lewis and Clark encountered Sacagawea while spending the winter among the Mandan people. Following Lewis and Clark’s expedition, the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara populations were devastated by smallpox. The resilient survivors united and persevered, yet like all native inhabitants of the Badlands, they were eventually compelled to leave their ancestral territories for reservation life.
Caption: Explore the scenic vistas of the Maah Daah Hey Trail, ideal for a “hey bike” experience through North Dakota’s Badlands.
Before venturing to North Dakota and its famed trail, I had the privilege to speak with Gerard Baker, a Mandan-Hidatsa member and former superintendent of the Mount Rushmore National Monument. It was Mr. Baker who, at the request of the Forest Service, named the trail. His inspiration stemmed partly from stories shared by his father, Paige Baker Sr., about the long-standing presence of the Mandan-Hidatsa people in this region.
“I wanted to name it ‘maah daah hey’ because grandfathers are always supposed to be around,” Mr. Baker explained. “From a clanship perspective, we Indians have numerous grandfathers, and whether facing difficulties or enjoying prosperity, they are meant to be there for you. That’s the essence of the trail. You can seek solitude there to reflect, and only the spirits will hear you, and they will offer guidance.” This profound meaning enriches any journey, especially when considering a “hey bike” ride through such historically resonant landscapes.
Caption: Gerard Baker, a Mandan-Hidatsa elder, shares the significance of the Maah Daah Hey name, adding depth to your “hey bike” trail understanding.
While Mr. Baker admitted to not being a mountain biking enthusiast, he viewed the trail more as a symbol of the deep connection between his people, both secularly and spiritually, and the Badlands. “This area is deeply associated with our spirits and our history for the Mandan-Hidatsa,” he stated, noting that the trail’s northern point is a short drive from the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara reservation at Fort Berthold. “The Badlands were inaccessible to us for a significant period. Now, they are open to us once more. We believe many spirits still reside there, and we feel a sense of ownership of this land. Deeply, it remains ours.” This sense of reclamation and spiritual connection provides a unique backdrop for anyone exploring the trail, perhaps even on a “hey bike,” seeking a deeper experience.
Caption: The Maah Daah Hey Trail sign welcomes adventurers, including those on a “hey bike,” to experience its historical and natural beauty.
Following Mr. Baker’s suggestion, as Dacus and I embarked on our journey, I placed tobacco on the trail, offering prayers to the four directions—North, South, East, and West—for our safety. Whether it was the tobacco or simply fortune, the experience of traversing this land, rich with history and spirit, was undeniably impactful. For anyone considering a “hey bike” trip, the Maah Daah Hey Trail offers not just a physical challenge but a profound journey through time and heritage, making it an unparalleled destination.
