This Hike Will Lead You To One Of The Most Enchanting Spots In Nebraska

Many of Nebraska’s wildest, most wonderful places aren’t immediately accessible by car. You have to get out and make a little trek to your destination – but it’s always worth the effort. Snake River Falls, near Valentine, is the perfect example. The trail to reach the falls is tough, but once you get there you’ll be amply rewarded with one of the most beautiful natural spectacles in the entire state.

***UPDATE: Several readers have noted that access to the falls was recently restricted by the landowners. Hiking to Snake River Falls is not allowed until further notice.***

By Ammodramus (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

The sportsmen's club owns the falls and charges admission to see it: $1 for adults and 75 cents for kids under 18. Only members of the club and their invited guests are allowed to fish in the river, so don't come expecting to catch some dinner while you're there.

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By Ammodramus (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

The path is steep and, in places, a little treacherous. The rock can be slippery, so sturdy shoes are a must.

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By Ammodramus (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

Though you'll want to be very careful here - Snake River Falls is the biggest falls by volume in the state. When the river is full, the waterfall is extremely powerful. Depending on the water volume, you may need to keep your distance.

This video gives you a first-person view of the hike to and from the falls. Seeing the water cascade over the 54-foot-wide ledge is really breathtaking; it makes you feel like you’re in a much more mountainous state.

To get to Snake River Falls, your best bet is to use your car’s navigation system or a map program on your phone set to Snake River Falls near Valentine. But be sure to make note of the route while you are in an area with good reception since there might not always be a great connection along the way. There are no signs pointing you to the falls, so you have to know where you’re going to get there.

From Valentine, head south on NE-97 for about 22 miles. Look for an unmarked dirt road on your right. Turn right, and keep going for abut a mile. This should take you right up to the Snake Falls Sportmen’s Club. But it’s easy to miss the turn-off, so refer to a map to be sure you’re in the right place.

***UPDATE: Several readers have noted that access to the falls was recently restricted by the landowners. Hiking to Snake River Falls is not allowed until further notice.***

If you’re looking for a waterfall journey that’s a little less strenuous and a lot easier to find, take this short and easy hike to Smith Falls, Nebraska’s highest waterfall.