View Map of Niobrara River

Each summer, tens of thousands of visitors canoe or tube in the river’s swift waters. Th e river fl ows overbedrock for much of its course, with numerous riffl es, chutes and easy rapids. Th anks to spring-fed tributaries, the river has reliable water levels even in dry years. It winds through deep canyons with high cliff s, pine-topped hills and many waterfalls. Depending on your ambitions, trips can last from an hour to several days.

From Valentine, head east on Highway 12. Numerous country roads lead south from the Highway to the river. Along the river between Valentine and Norden, you’ll fi nd plenty of outfi tters, campgrounds and boat launches. Th e Niobrara was designated a National Scenic River by Congress in 1991; however, much of the land along the river is privately owned. Please respect property rights. To learn more, contact the Valentine Chamber of Commerce, (800) 658-4024, or the National Park Service, (402) 376-1901.