We’re pretty in love with Nebraska’s many, many hiking trails. It’s impossible to choose the best one or the prettiest one or even a favorite one – but there’s one that we think is extra special. The wilderness trail at Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge starts out at a gorgeous natural spectacle and leads you through some of the most beautiful wilderness in the state.

Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge is located near Valentine and encompasses more than 19,000 acres.
flickr/Diana Robinson
Sights like buffalo and elk are common here. If you're lucky, you'll even see prairie dogs poking their little heads up from their burrows.
TripAdvisor/stoneyranger15
Park near Fort Falls to begin your hike. The first part of the trail will take you down a metal staircase into the valley where you'll find...
By Chris Light (Own work) [CC BY-SA 4.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

Related Stories

You’ve Never Experienced Anything Like This Epic Abandoned Railroad Hike In Nebraska

You’ve Never Experienced Anything Like This Epic Abandoned Railroad Hike In Nebraska

 The Historic Trail In Nebraska Everyone Should Take At Least Once

The Historic Trail In Nebraska Everyone Should Take At Least Once

 Take This Ghost Town Hike In Nebraska If You Dare

Take This Ghost Town Hike In Nebraska If You Dare
...the beautiful Fort Falls. The 45-foot-tall waterfall is peaceful and lovely to watch for a while before you continue your hike.
By Chris Light (Own work) [CC BY-SA 4.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
The trail is only about three quarters of a mile long, but it can be challenging. It's just the right length for a leisurely afternoon of sightseeing along the Niobrara.
TripAdvisor/TranzorZ1985
The trail skirts the scenic river, letting you drink in the sights of the gorgeous bluffs and lush vegetation.
TripAdvisor/Jackie77
No matter the time of year, you'll be awed by the views and solitude here. This area of wilderness is truly wild, and you're unlikely to encounter many other visitors.
flickr/USFWS Mountain-Prairie

Fort Falls may not be quite as tall or as grand as its big brother, Smith Falls, but it’s an utterly charming part of the wildlife refuge and the perfect reason to take a hike.

Don’t be jealous, other hiking trails. You’re all beautiful.

Interested in another unique hike in Nebraska? This one near Crawford was named one of the 10 best in the U.S. for a spring hike.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Explore Nebraska