This Underrated Nature Preserve In Nebraska Is A True Hidden Gem… And Will Take Your Breath Away
By Delana Lefevers|Published July 30, 2016
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Delana Lefevers
Author
As a lifelong Nebraskan, Delana loves discovering the many hidden treasures of her state. She has worked as a writer and editor since 2007. Delana's work has been featured on more than a dozen websites and in Nebraska Life Magazine.
Of Nebraska’s many natural wonders, the Niobrara Valley Nature Preserve is one of the most biologically diverse and visually stunning. Formed in 1980 by the Nature Conservancy, this 56,000-acre property is located in north-central Nebraska and, luckily for us, is open to the public.
This is one of the largest areas in the Great Plains set aside for conservation, and one of the Nature Conservancy's largest preserves.
The Nature Conservancy leases land to local ranchers on which to graze their cattle. This, along with grazing bison (more on that later) and prescribed burns, is helping the stewards of the land as they try to return the grassland to its pristine natural state.
Twenty-five miles of the scenic Niobrara River are contained in the preserve.
This breathtaking river is one of Nebraska's treasures. Many species of animals and plants thrive in the water and along the river's banks.
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The Niobrara also displays some of the state's most stunning topography, from the sandhills on the south side to the tall bluffs along the north bank and a variety of cascading waterfalls.
Floating down the Niobrara with inner tubes, canoes, or kayaks is a favorite summer activity. The people who partake in the fun not only help maintain public awareness of this beautiful place; they also feed millions of dollars into the local economy each year.
Tours to see the herd are another very popular activity here. Native bison once roamed here but were hunted out of existence. Before this herd of 500 was introduced, bison hadn't lived in the area for more than 100 years. Seeing these majestic animals in their native habitat is an experience that will leave you speechless.
This special place is known as a "biological crossroads" thanks to its unique mix of six ecological classifications.
Hundreds of species of plants, mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects live on the preserve, making it an area of great biological significance. The Nature Conservancy works tirelessly to protect the land and everything that relies on it, preventing development by humans and encroachment by invasive and non-native plant species.
Thankfully, the preserve is open to visitors so we can all enjoy the spectacular sights here.
There is a visitors center on the property where you can read about the ecology of the preserve and the history of the area. There are two trails available to hikers on the preserve, providing the perfect opportunity to see nature's handiwork up close.
You probably won’t be able to get this close to the bison on your tour, but even at a distance these animals are absolutely beautiful.
The video below gives a complete history of the Niobrara Valley Preserve, including interviews with the ranchers who protect and manage the land.
To get to the Niobrara Valley Preserve from Ainsworth, take Highway 20 west for approximately 10 miles. Turn onto the country road toward Norden and continue another 16 miles. For a detailed map and more information about this magical place, visit The Nature Conservancy’s website.
