Niobrara River

Nebraska

Unlike other rivers on the Great Plains, the Niobrara is rapidly eroding (on a geologic time scale), cutting down into ancient formations that formerly lay buried beneath the river. The result is that the river is confined to a narrow valley over much of its designated 76-mile length, with high cliffs looming over portions of the river, and rocks and rapids greeting canoers. Ponderosa pine grow next to paper birch, and deep tributary canyons often hide waterfalls and species characteristic of northern climes. Further downstream, the river and valley spread out and provide habitat for endangered birds and nesting bald eagles.

Although the Niobrara National Scenic River is comprised mostly of private land, the Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge and Niobrara Valley Preserve protect much of the area. Additional protection comes from Smith Falls State Park, which holds Nebraska’s highest waterfall at 65 feet, and Borman Bridge and Fred Thomas Wildlife Management Areas, which permit additional public access.

Recreational
Scenic
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Designated Reach

May 24, 1991. From Borman Bridge to State Highway 137. From the western boundary of Knox County to its confluence with the Missouri River. Verdigre Creek from its confluence with the Niobrara to the north boundary of the town of Verdigre.

Outstandingly Remarkable Values

Culture

The permanent water source provided by the Niobrara River and Verdigre Creek segments attracted significant prehistoric and historic use. The water provides a great diversity and abundance of vegetation and animal resources today as it did in the past. Wild food gathering, hunting, trapping, and ...Show More

Ecology

The dynamic Niobrara River is a naturally braided stream in the Great Plains that has outstanding channel complexity and large woody debris. The river is connected to its floodplain and naturally moves across the valley. This reach contains numerous backwaters, chutes, sandbars, islands, and wetl...Show More

Geology

The dynamic and evolved geology of the Niobrara Valley is a delicate mix of well-watered, shady, and cool north-facing gradients; wider, sun-drenched south facing slopes; the diversity of a riverbed flowing variously over rock and sand substrate; and the tumble of water over hard rock. In their a...Show More

Paleontology

Fossils were first observed here in the mid-1800s, and paleontologists from the east started coming soon after. The most fossiliferous formation is the Valentine Formation. Mammals and other vertebrates from the Miocene left considerable evidence of their being. Dozens of fossil quarries have bee...Show More

Recreation

Given the unusual nature of the valley, and the river’s relatively rapid flow, tens of thousands of annual visitors come for an experience unique on the Great Plains. Canoes and tubes are the chosen means of enjoying the river. Floaters may supply their own or rent vessels from one of several out...Show More

Scenery

The river runs easterly down a narrow, steep-walled valley for much of its length, with views of deciduous forests and ponderosa pine woodlands alternating with vistas of prairies and marshes. Narrow side canyons on the south side of the river invite exploration; most harbor waterfalls. However, ...Show More

Classification/Mileage

Recreational Scenic
Recreational — 28 miles; Scenic — 76 miles; Total — 104 miles.
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