By Greg Wagner
Eager to get on the water? I sure am!
Summer is here and it is a perfect time to float Nebraska’s many miles of water trails.
There is a multitude of reasons to take a float trip on continuously flowing water in the Cornhusker State.
You can do it for the openness and space that it offers and the adventure of going somewhere you have never been. You can do it to make connections and memories with people and nature, re-trace history, experience wetlands, see a variety of wildlife species, get some fresh air and sunshine (vitamin D), burn calories and just plain have fun. You can do it to leave the house and technology behind, relax and clear your mind.
I have a passion for floating Nebraska’s water trails. Actually, I have an affinity for rivers, streams and their dynamic ecosystems. I grew up recreating along the Lower Platte River corridor in Sarpy County. I am a self-proclaimed “river rat.” In fact, I have paddled nearly all of the rivers in my 46 years at the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission but there are always new stretches to discover. In my view, we have some of the most beautiful rivers and creeks in the U.S. I will tell you firsthand that each Nebraska river, or stretch of it, is unique. Each has its own character, its own personality, and its own traits.
Whether I’m leisurely floating my own kayak on the broad, braided channel of the Platte River with co-workers or paddling the wild, remote Dismal River through an outfitter with friends or family, I enjoy exploring our varied Nebraska water trails. I believe you will, too.
What to Know Before You Go
Before you embark on a float trip, here is what you need to know about Nebraska Rivers.
River Difficulty
On the International Scale of River Difficulty, our rivers in the state typically rate Class I: Easy. Defined as moving water with riffles and small waves, few obstacles, slight risk to the swimmer, and easy self-rescue if you are wearing a life jacket.
There are a few exceptions though.
The Dismal River in the central Sandhills area, for example, is a narrow, spring-fed stream with hairpin turns that swiftly flows at about 6-8 mph. Barbed-wire fences, downed trees, stumps and rocks in the river are constant hazards. It is an “extreme sports” river with land access available through a nearby outfitter. In a handful of places on two other rivers — the Niobrara and Snake — there are very difficult spots. Several rapids exist that require portage. These are Class II, III and IV rapids.
The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission has established 11 water trails or recreational passageways on specific stretches of rivers and creeks.
Our water trails in Nebraska are generally of a calmer nature, perfect for small non-motorized vessels such as kayaks, canoes, inner tubes, stock tanks, inflatable rafts, etc.
Water Levels
Please know that water levels in some rivers and creeks fluctuate with weather and irrigation drawdowns, so be sure to check conditions on the USGS Streamflow site: waterdata.usgs.gov, or by contacting local outfitters, nearby state park superintendents, conservation officers or other officials. Stay informed of weather conditions that can change quickly and affect flows, especially upstream. Take into account wind direction and paddling ability. Recon the take-out spot to be certain it is accessible by water and land.
Always wear your life jacket; water movement can be unpredictable. Know how to swim. Wear water shoes or river sandals. Do not let a low water level give you a false sense of security, either! Be aware that air boating or other power boating traffic may be present on some of these rivers, as well.
Property Ownership
In Nebraska, landowners own the beds, bars and banks of rivers and creeks. Therefore, it is up to you to do your homework to find out who owns the land and get permission from them to rest, swim, picnic, camp or fish on your journey. Most landowners along our water trails do not mind floaters as long as they ask permission well in advance of their trip, are careful with campfires, do not alter livestock fences, leave the property as they found it, and pack out their trash and recyclables. Nebraska state statutes give you permission to portage around fences and other obstructions; however, you are responsible for any damage caused to the property.
On sandbars, paddle sports enthusiasts must avoid violating federal and state laws by keeping a good distance from protected shorebirds that are nesting. These at-risk shorebirds are the interior least tern and piping plover.
Fishing Opportunities
Prior to your float trip, make plans to do a little fishing for an array of river species. That means buy your fishing permit, check limits, pack your fishing gear and take a container or two of earthworms (nightcrawlers) along for fish bait. Who knows? You could catch a fresh catfish dinner!
Trail Information
You can find a host of detailed information about Nebraska Water Trails at https://outdoornebraska.gov/parks/explore-trails/water-trails/.
More information on rivers, outfitters, etc. is also available on the Nebraska Travel and Tourism website, VisitNebraska.com.
Did You Know?
- Nebraska has more than 70,000 miles of river.
- Nebraska currently has 11 designated water trails covering close to 600 paddleable river/stream miles.
- The National Park Service has declared stretches of the Niobrara and the Missouri as Wild and Scenic Rivers.
SOURCE: Alex Duryea, Recreational Trails Manager, Planning and Programming Division, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.