Nebraskaland Magazine
I was talking with folks at the Omaha Boat, Sports and Travel Show this past week who had just moved here to Nebraska from Colorado and they just couldn’t believe that this state (our state) has any waterfalls in it whatsoever. Whoa, folks, not so fast. We do have waterfalls in the Cornhusker State and some really cool ones at that! Look at the stair step falls along the Niobrara River near Valentine, NE.
So, new friends and Nebraska residents, this blog post is for you! Enjoy catching a glimpse of some of Nebraska’s waterfalls. Keep in mind that most of these are along or on spring-fed rivers that flow in the ecologically unique, north-central Nebraska Sandhills region. They derive their water from the massive Ogallala aquifer. These natural wonders are certainly worth the trip to see and experience! A number of Nebraska’s waterfalls can be found along the south side of the Lower Niobrara River east of Valentine, NE by taking a float trip through an outfitter. Check out the video.
These waterfalls help supply the river with water. Over 230 waterfalls have been recorded along the Niobrara with the highest being 63-foot tall Smith Falls (State Park) near Sparks, NE.
As mentioned, various other waterfalls can be seen along the river. Here is a “still photo” of Berry Falls.
Other Sandhills rivers like the Upper Snake in Cherry County have small, picturesque waterfalls such as the Twin Falls.
Abbott’s Lockjaw Falls on the Upper Snake (pictured below) obviously can be viewed but should be directly experienced by the fun of a canoe or kayak.
Make plans to explore Nebraska this year and take in some waterfalls. You’ll be glad you did!
See you out there!
You can get information about Nebraska’s water trails by clicking here.
