VALENTINE The Niobrara River, two national wildlife refuges and world-class golf destinations bring adventure-seeking visitors from around the world to the Nebraska Sandhills and Valentine. The Niobrara River winds through tree-filled canyons of Cherry County near Valentine. Canoeists and kayakers prove their paddling prowess through or around rapids and rocks. Inner-tube floaters leisurely let the river do the work. They occasionally stop to enjoy waterfalls. More than 230 waterfalls exist along the Niobrara River. A 6-mile stretch of the Niobrara River is designated as a National Scenic River and managed by the National Park Service. The Niobrara River is known for refreshing spring-fed flows, close-up wildlife views and memorable experiences. You can bring your own canoe or kayak, or you can rely on one of many local outfitters for kayak, canoe
or inner tube rental, then transportation to and from the river at launch and exit points.
in this remote location 26 miles southwest of Valentine. Wide white sand beaches attract families for beach volleyball, sunbathing and other fun in the sun. Camping and fishing are permitted. Use caution on the sandy trails surrounding the lake. (402) 376-2320
Smith Falls State Park east of Valentine is named for its 70-foot tall cascading waterfall – the state’s highest. The park is a popular launching site for kayakers, canoeists and tubers looking to enjoy the Niobrara National Scenic River. Park entry permits are available in the park’s visitor center. 90165 Smith Falls Rd. (402) 376-1306
Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge began as a military post. Its mission today is preserving wildlife habitat. A driving tour reveals prairie dogs, burrowing owls and other animals. Watch for bison cooling off in the pond, or hike the trail to Fort Falls. The refuge’s visitor center has exhibits explaining military history and how six ecosystems meet here, and displays ancient fossils. Five miles east of Valentine on Highway 12. (402) 376-3789
Nebraska largest waterfall by volume, Snake River Falls, rushes over a 54-foot-wide Snake River Ledge. A short scenic hike through private land leads visitors to the falls which thunder to the rocks below. To get to Snake River Falls, take Highway 97 south of Valentine for 23 miles. Follow the signs west. The nearly 3,000 acres of sky-blue Merritt Reservoir water surrounded by sand hills is a scenic sight to behold
Valentine National Wildlife Refuge protects 72,000 acres of the Nebraska Sandhills. Grass-covered sand dunes rise over marsh-filled valleys. The refuge allows limited hunting. Some lakes
Smith Falls State Park
CHECK US OUT ON
#1 Rated Motel in Area Last Locally Owned Motel In-room Coffee, Microwave & Refrigerator Large Grounds with Security Cameras
FREE Wifi FREE breakfast (7-9:30 a.m.) Pet-friendly Rooms Indoor Fish/Fowl Cleaning & Freezer
402-376-1600
Reservations Only: 888-376-1601
TradeWindsLodge.com 1009 E Hwy 20 • Valentine
18
NEBRASKA TRAVELER
Chris Amundson
