Mev and Kelly, although I haven't ridden as much through long, open spaces as you two, I do have to say that I have now become hooked on going through this sort of landscape. I find that the calmness that comes from riding through wide open country is something that I like a lot. Maybe one day I can ride through some of these parts of the SW of the States, it certainly sounds intriguing.
Many parts of ND were like that both times I was in the state. But stay away from the oilfield areas.