Presently it is complete from Norfolk to Ainsworth (138 miles), and from Valentine east to Arabia Ranch Road (18 miles). Th e Nebraska Game and Parks Commission plans to complete the Norfolk to Valentine route by 2007.

The Cowboy Trail is a “rails-to-trails” project, converting the abandoned Chicago and Northwestern Railroad route
to a graveled trail with wooden-decked bridges. Because of the railroad grading, the curves and hills are gentle; because
of the requirements of old-time steam locomotives, the towns along the route are conveniently spaced in 10 to 15-mile
intervals.

Of the 221 bridges planned for the trail, the longest and most spectacular is just outside Valentine. It’s a thrill to
bicycle along the quarter-mile-long old railroad trestle bridge that soars 148 feet above the Niobrara River.
Th e trail is open a half-hour before sunrise to a half-hour aft er sunset. (Go to Trailhead Park on south Main Street in
Valentine.) Trail passes are voluntary for anyone 13 years of age and older. Passes are $2/day or $10 for an annual pass
and can be obtained from the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. (402) 471-0641.