Sometimes all you really want is to get away from everyday life and escape into nature. Of course, Nebraska is the perfect place to do that with its spectacular natural beauty and peaceful getaway spots. If you're feeling stressed, there's pretty much nothing that can't be cured by a day on the Niobrara River.
Niobrara National Scenic River is nestled in the Sandhills of north-central Nebraska. It covers more than 560 miles in total, but it's the relatively small stretch near Valentine that's most prized among river enthusiasts.
Unlike the wild and moody Missouri River and the lovely but impossibly shallow Platte River, the Niobrara offers a calm, peaceful experience.
It passes through Smith Falls State Park, home to Nebraska's tallest waterfall, and under the iconic Cowboy Trail.
Tubing is possibly the most popular way to enjoy this national scenic river. Grab an inner tube, slather on the sunscreen, and enjoy a leisurely float down this slow-moving waterway.
If you want the most Nebraskan experience possible, tanking may be right up your alley. You can rent a stock tank like those pictured below and enjoy a safe, fun day on the water.
Outfitters all along the river are available to coordinate a tanking, tubing, canoeing, or kayaking adventure, including equipment rental.
Most trips last at least three hours and some can go twice as long, so be sure to bring along some friends to keep you company.
The absolutely incredible scenery is the highlight of any Niobrara River trip. In the Valentine area, the river runs through the Niobrara Valley Preserve and the Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge.
Some parts of the river abut private land, so be aware of your surroundings when you pull over for a break.
No matter what's happening in your daily life, you're sure to find the inner peace you're seeking when you spend a day on the river. Plentiful campgrounds dot the land on both sides of the river, so you'll never be at a loss for a place to sleep if you're looking for a multi-day adventure.
Take just a little bit of a detour to see the tallest waterfall in Nebraska - it's worth the side trip!
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