Things To Do Near Niobrara National Scenic River
RV enthusiasts will love visiting the Niobrara National Scenic River for its wonderful, nature-filled sites. If you feel like going on a quest, be sure to hit one of the nearby trails, some of which are more difficult than others. If you're hungry, check out one of the local family-owned restaurants and pick up some food, or if you brought your own, set up a picnic somewhere by the flowing waters of the Niobrara River.
Hiking Trails
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Niobrara Loop Trail
On this lightly trafficked trail, you'll find yourself surrounded by nature. Part of the trail is forested while other parts give you a view of the rushing Niobrara River. It's great for walking or running.
Location
89261 522 Ave., Niobrara, NE 68760
Length
1.6 miles
Intensity
Moderate
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Chalk Bluffs Multi-use Trail
The Chalk Bluffs Multi-use Trail is for those who are looking for a challenge. The trail runs alongside a large blue lake, easily seen from high up on the steep slopes. Throughout your journey, you'll come across open fields and thick woods. Besides hiking, you can ride horses or go mountain biking.
Location
Gavins Point Drive, Yankton, SD 57078
Length
3.7 miles
Intensity
Difficult
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Fort Falls Trail
The Fort Falls Trail is for anyone wanting to take it easy. It sees hardly any foot traffic and is great for all skill levels. A nearby river, towering hills, and golden plains are some of the trail's wonderful sights.
Location
39983 Refuge Road, Valentine, NE 69201
Length
1 mile
Intensity
Easy
Sightseeing
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Niobrara State Park
Located where Nebraska and Missouri meet, you can find tons of activities to do at Niobrara State Park. If you're hungry, hunker down for a picnic or, if you're feeling adventurous, head out on a hike. You can find white-tailed deer and wild turkeys roaming the park, or you can meet up with a wrangler and go for a horseback ride.
Location
89261 522 Ave., Niobrara, NE 68760
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Smith Falls State Park
Named after homesteader Frederic Smith, Smith Falls State Park is home to Nebraska's tallest waterfall, Smith Falls. This park is excellent for canoers and kayakers or for just plain hiking. It became a state park in 1992 and is home to remnants of the last Ice Age nearly 20,000 years ago.
Location
90159 Smith Falls Road, Valentine, NE 69201
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Keller Park State Recreation Area
With 196 acres at your disposal, you can do anything here. Anglers come here to catch rainbow trout and other warm-water fish. Go hiking on the park's steep, tree-covered hills, or settle down and watch the wildlife while having a picnic.
Location
U.S. Hwy 183, Ainsworth, NE 69210
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Long Lake State Recreation Area
The Long Lake State Recreation Area sits on 30 acres. It is made up of tall sandhills, and a sandhill lake glistens nearby. You can go fishing and picnicking. Hunting is popular during certain times of the year as waterfowl make their homes here.
Location
2 miles east of Johnstown and 22 miles south on County Road, Bassett, NE 68714
Museums
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Niobrara National Scenic River Visitor Center
Here, you can find many exhibits about the Niobrara's ecology and wildlife. If you're not sure what to do in the surrounding area, a park ranger will set you on the right track. Some days, they have activities for children.
Location
214 West Hwy 20, Valentine, NE 69201
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Ponca Tribal Museum
At this Native American museum, you can find artifacts like headdresses, tools, jewelry, and musical instruments. If you want to dive deeper into Niobrara's history, you can view archived writings and photos. Tribal families regularly donate photos and artifacts.
Location
88915 521 Ave., Niobrara NE 68760
Nearby Shops and Restaurants
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Broken Spoke Boutique
This building started off as a bank after its construction in 1915 and closed in 1964. Many businesses operated out of this building over the years until 2016 when it was taken over by the boutique. At the Broken Spoke Boutique, you can find dresses, jewelry, stuffed animals, and much more. They also have clothing for infants and young children.
Location
205 N. Main St., Valentine, NE 69201
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Ainsworth Flowers & Gifts
This flower shop opened in 1963 and is great for any occasion. Besides floral designs, you can get candy and balloons. It doubles as a small coffee shop where you can order espresso and smoothies. It also has a gift shop.
Location
159 N. Main St. Ainsworth, NE 69210
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Sand Hills Lounge
At Sand Hills Lounge, you can order some burgers or check out their beer selection. While you're waiting for your food, be sure to take part in some bar games.
Location
317 N. Main St., Long Pine, NE 69217
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Big John's Restaurant
You can order a little of everything at Big John's Restaurant. They serve meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and are known for their outstanding burgers.
Location
1110 E. 4th St., Ainsworth, NE 69210