What Is It?

The Niobrara, a national scenic river, wanders through a sea of grass and extraordinary, fossil-filled sandstone cliffs hidden in northern Nebraska. Explore the river’s diversity with a mellow, 22-mile Class I/II weekend float from the Cornell Bridge to Rocky Ford. Camp or stop midway for a stay at the Niobrara River Ranch, a log cabin retreat and working cattle ranch at river’s edge.

Why Do It?

You’ll enjoy exploring this beautiful waterway as it flows peacefully and steadily, carving a lush valley filled with birch, oak, ash, walnut, aspen, and ponderosa pine. Keep an eye out as you pass hundreds of waterfalls that line the river corridor; some merely trickle down side canyons while bigger ones—such as 60-foot Smith Falls, the largest in the state—plunge over the corridor’s rocky bluffs. Six major ecosystems converge on the Niobrara, creating a biodiversity hot spot that’s home to 160 animal and plant species. The river also cuts through several rock formations that hold distinctive fossils, including beaver, horse, mastodon, and alligator. Pay attention on side hikes and you might get lucky!

Make It Happen:

Visit the Niobrara National Scenic website for updated conditions and detailed information about canoeing and kayaking. Arrange for accommodations and rentals through the Niobrara River Ranch.