Ended up walking the last 1/4 of the trip with a flat tube. Most popular for river recreation, you can float the Niobrara River on a canoe, tube, or kayak as a beginner and have a blast. We've been going through these guys every summer for the past seven years for tubes, and their service is fantastic. We used this service for a Saturday 4 hour trip. They are available at the park office. One has conquered the world of plant-based baking. When we arrived to check in the staff was very unfriendly. (If Smith Falls is just a pit-stop while you float and you are not pulling out there, just stopping to see the falls, then a pass is not required because you are not accessing the parking areas by vehicle. We introduced our Stock Tank float trips to the Scenic Niobrara River over 10years ago, and they have become quite popular. They are both very knowledgeable about the area. All prices for the rental of canoes, tubes and kayaks include shuttle from Sparks, life jackets, paddles for (canoes and kayaks only). At 70 feet, the icy shower of Smith Falls (east of Valentine) is the state's tallest. These guys are the real deal! Niobrara Adventures 4 8 reviews #1 of 2 Tours & Activities in Niobrara River Rafting & Tubing Kayaking & Canoeing Closed now 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM Write a review See all photos About Tube & Kayak rentals on Niobrara river with shuttle service. Your group was one hour early as confirmed even by the person in your group who made the reservation. Parking fees and landing fees can be paid at the campground. Hi we are coming to Merritt next weekend and was interested in tubing one of the days we are there how are the water levels do to all the flooding? Come along with our staff on a guided interpretive float. (Though youll want to portage Rocky Ford, a boulder-choked five-foot drop, coming up on the left.) A mix of rolling . You can choose between a tandem kayak/canoe or a solo kayak to take in the beauty of the Niobrara River, a Top 10 Canoeing River in the United States. They provide great service and are very easy to work with. Tamales are a project, but many handseven tiny onesmake lighter work. We had a wonderful time today going on a float trip with Niobrara Adventures. River trips range from 2 hours all the way to 6 hours, depending on your trip selectionand date. The 5.6 miles of the Refuge portion of the River is considered the most "scenic" and offers visitors a unique experience not available elsewhere. The Niobrara cuts through the surrounding plains forming a deep valley. Take the left channel around wooded Fritzs Island (mile 22.6). Keep your eyes out for herons, bald eagles and other species along your trip! For the most upscale accommodations in the Valentine area (and great golf along three courses), head to the well-appointed lodge and cabins at this golf resort. Rent from a pro and travel like one, too. Contact (402) 376-1901; nps.gov/niob While we didn't see any more bison, we saw plenty of Mule Deer and were accompanied by a host of geese, herons . We're sorry to hear about your experience you had a year ago. Licensed and Insured through the state of Nebraska. There is not alot of walking. We recommend contacting the Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge for more information about this launch site. They couldn't get rid of us fast enough. Thats because the activity is extremely enjoyable and refreshing. If youre an angling enthusiast, then youll find that there are plenty of opportunities for you to enjoy fishing along the Niobrara National Scenic River as well as its many tributaries. Lots of wildlife/birds can be seen along the way, bald eagles nest, least tern, pelicans, etc. Definitely a highlight of my vacation. Other birds youll find at the park include bald eagles, peregrine falcons, whooping cranes, and least tern. We visited in the off season but they made it very easy. They shuttle you upstream and pick the gear when done. Boost Your Home's Curb Appeal With These Ideas from a Minneapolis Makeover. It is located on the North side of the Cornell Bridge on the way to the Burr Oak Picnic Area. *You will have to portage around Rocky Ford and the Egelhoff Rapids. Kids activities are also hosted at the center. PLEASE KEEP THIs IN MIND WHEN YOU book your trip. Volunteers are an important part of the National Park Service mission! We dare not mess with an iconat least, not too much. This year there would have been enough water but I would be concerned about the Niobrara being a little too fast for children. This includes a shuttle from Sparks and life jackets. Members get 15+ publications right in your pocket. Two own businesses with their spouses. Flows above 800 cfs at Berry Bridge are primo. Plan It The way From Valentine, drive four miles east on NE 12 to Cornell Bridge. The Delicate, Spongy Basic Crepe Recipe You Can Master at HomePlus 4 Ways to Upgrade It. $40 Weekday Special $40 per person Monday - Thursday 8:30 & 10:30 Shuttle Canoe, tube or kayak trip from Cornell Bridge (Fort Niobrara Wildlife Refuge launch site) to Smith Falls or Brewer Bridge Find out more Price List 2023 1 Day Tube Trip See you on the river! Shuttle times from Sparks are 8:30 am & 10:30 am. River levels change daily. * TAX, LAUNCH AND LANDING FEES ARE INCLUDED IN THE PRICE. We pride ourselves in courteous, friendly service and hope you will give us another chance. Hope to see you again! The park is located 76 miles south of Interstate 90. If you possess appropriate hunting licenses, you can also hunt on public lands, and private lands (with permission), within the park. Sign in|Recent Site Activity|Report Abuse|Print Page|Powered By Google Sites. Nature & Wildlife Relax as the spring-fed, slow moving river leads you past the pine covered hills, steep cliff banks and waterfalls. And we haven't even told you about the waterfalls yet. We will use little Outlaw again. We could have went on longer being so much fun! US. Absolutely delicious cakes. On a 46-mile, two-day paddle from Cornelle Bridge to Meadville Bridge, youll have the swift current and conifer-covered bluffs all to yourself, save for a few buffalo and elk. But if you need a rush, try the river's signature ritual: a walk into the icy 63-foot shower of Smith Falls, one of more than 180 waterfalls around Valentine (300 miles northwest of Omaha). A diverse array of bird life calls the Niobrara Valley home. Explore the scenery, sandbars, and wildlife of the beautiful mouth of Niobrara River by Niobrara, Nebraska. And the fifth is a James Beard finalist chef. Dryland Aquatics41115 Sparks Rd, Sparks, NE 69220US, Tubing, Canoeing and Kayaking the Niobrara River with Dryland Aquatics. Get to know the winter safety gear you need in your pack. Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! On day two, youll come to the wildest part of the river. Most of our customers use our shuttle service as it is both convenient and reasonable. Additional Details are available at www.nps.gov/coronavirus. If you'd like to set up or inquire about a "group booking" call us at 402-376-2046. Rest assured youll enjoy beautiful sights of the Niobrara National Scenic River and Nebraskas highest waterfall at the park. Penbrook Landing/Campground: landing and camping. Due to the high demand for floating on Saturdays. At times the walls of the valley would close in giving rise to 50-75 ft embankments and sometimes these embankments had waterfalls flowing right into the river. Loved having you!! Relax as the spring-fed, slow moving river gently carries you past the pine covered hills, steep cliff banks and waterfalls. At Smith Falls State Park (mile 16), beach your canoe on river right and hike up a short path to the highest falls in Nebraska (63 feet). Everyone over 18 must sign our liability form, any one under 18 must have a parent or guardian sign the form releasing consent. Those who venture inland find hiking trails and wildlife in two national refuges and climbs to uninterrupted views. If you fancy such activities, youll find waterfowl, game birds, white-tailed deer, as well as other wildlife that you can hunt for within the parks area. Use caution when accessing the landing, In accordance with CDC protocols, in medium COVID-19 community level areas, masks are optional, and you are welcome to wear a mask if it makes you more comfortable. So grab your cooler, put on your sunscreen, and get ready for an adventure of a llifetime with Brewers Canoers. Rates are per person. Take your pick of canoe, kayak, or tube! Our Stock Tank float trip will start at Berry Bridge and will float about 2 hours to the Smith Falls waterfall, which is a huge attraction in our area. Our services include shuttle service and your choice of vessel - Canoe, Kayak, and of course our most popular the giant float Tubes. Browse books by Nebraskans and on topics such as Native American and Western history at the Valentine shop. $65 per person (2 person minimum) for any one day trip. You'll pass the Smith Falls waterfall, the tallest waterfall in Nebraska as well as other areas of outstanding natural beauty. Approaching Valentine, the trail crosses the Niobrara River on a century-old, 148-foot-high steel trestle bridge; stop for valley views. Sort By: No matter which trip you choose, you are sure to enjoy the Niobrara river. Valentine, Copyright 2023 Meredith Corporation. The tank trips must be reserved in advance, as we have limited availability. *Take advantage of one of our services and we will provide you with a detailed river map, point out safety issues, and provide you with directions to hidden water falls and scenic nature trails that enable you to hike through six different ecosystems found in the Niobrara River Valley. *TRIPS STARTING FROM CORNELL BRIDGE (Fort Niobrara Wildlife Refuge launch site) TO BERRY BRIDGE ALCOHOL IS NOT ALLOWED. As a result, youll need to request permission from the landowner(s) before hunting on private property. Family-Owned Nebraskan Company Offering Niobrara River Water Activities. Although the Niobrara River courses 300 miles from eastern Wyoming all the way across Nebraska to the town of Niobrara, where it flows into the Missouri River, only a small section can be continuously canoed without portaging every 100 yards. Sales Tax is included in your price. Loved having you. Rounding a bend, youre as likely to see a herd of eastern whitetails as a dozen mule deer. Approaching Valentine, the trail crosses the Niobrara River on a century-old, 148-foot-high steel trestle bridge; stop for valley views. Take-out comes in 16 miles, with a carry up the bank at Meadville Bridge. A memorable canoe journey passes through the gently rolling terrain of north-central Nebraskas cowboy country. All of these add up to about 160 plant species inhabiting the park. SHUTTLE TIMES FOR ROCKY FORD CAMP AND OUTFITTERS Children 5-7 may ride with a parent depending on weight (Weight Limit 50 Pounds) Additional charge $5 per child - shuttle charge (1 child per paying adult) 54 QUART COOLER TUBES AVAILABLE $15 OVERSIZED COOLER TUBES PLEASE DO NOT BRING PERSONAL EQUIPMENT UNLESS YOU HAVE PRIOR APPROVAL FROM MANAGEMENT! Born and Raised on the Niobrara River with 50+ years of River experience and 25 Years of Kayak/Canoe Experience.-We Rent sit on and sit in Kayaks. Please call (402) 376-3708 to inquire about availability. Hoping to go again! There are two spots to portage around Rocky Ford and the Egelhoff Rapids. If you are experiencing any symptoms of Covid-19 or believe you have been exposed, please call as soon as possible to reschedule/cancel your trip. Would definitely recommend it! 69201, Download the official NPS app before your next visit. Put in the water on the Verdegris River which flows into the Niobrara about 1/2 mile downstream. 11 Extraordinary Outdoor Travel Experiences to Try This Year. On this trip youll have the chance to see the impressive Smith Falls waterfall, Nebraskas highest waterfall. Please be ready 15-30 minutes early if we are shuttling you from the river. Along the 76-mile path of this river in Nebraska, there are plenty of opportunities to appreciate nature, learn about the history of Niobrara, have fun with family and friends, and have a wonderful time away from home. It's an excellent river for beginners, though if the water is low, you will . Rental Dryland Aquatics in Sparks does canoes, paddles, and PFDs for $30 per day, including shuttle. SO WHAT YOU SEE IS WHAT YOU PAY. Youll find that northern, western, and eastern forest ecosystems thrive in the area, in addition to three Great Plains prairie plant communities. You'll have plenty of opportunities to spot local wildlife as you pass through the peaceful US Fish & Wildlife Ft. Niobrara Wildlife Refuge, a designated Wilderness area. Canoe, tube or kayak trip from Cornell Bridge (Fort Niobrara Wildlife Refuge launch site) to Smith Falls or Brewer Bridge. The Niobrara is a class I river with class II and III rapids. We will pick you up at your campsite. Rental Dryland Aquatics in Sparks does canoes, paddles, and PFDs for $30 per day, including shuttle. Peak summer brings crowds, and due to low rainfall, paddlers occasionally have to pull their canoes through shallow spots. The custom hotel shuttle is an excellent option for those staying in Valentine and surrounding areas who have a tubing adventure . Although there are no provisions for camping at Niobrara National Scenic River, there are loads of opportunities for fun. Hi, I would like to know about the tubing services in the Niobrara , NE area and is the water level up to tube most if not all of the river? It is unfortunate that you did not enjoy your trip. Be sure to stop your tank for a brief visit to the Smith Falls waterfall along the way. With your trip starting at Cornell (Fort Niobrara Wildlife Refuge launch site) and ending at Smith Falls or Brewer Bridge on day one. Accurate weather information from weather.gov, 214 W US Highway 20 Ponderosa pine creep in from the western mountains, mixing with paper birch straight out of a New England calendar. Seasonal Information: This will help streamline getting on the river and pickup times. Float duration varies based on which landings you plan to get in and out on. Niobrara Adventures: Hours, Address, Niobrara Adventures Reviews: 4/5, Nice tubing options and excellent service. While planning your trip, refer to our guide page for length of float trips and launching and landing sites available. You may even consider a jacket if the forecast is for rain or cooler temps. Join Outside+ to get access to exclusive content, 1,000s of training plans, and more. We challenge you to try one of these activities. Thank you so Much Marlene and Harlan. The common thread? Cool activities and videos for your kids to explore the Niobrara River! Remember youll need to have a valid fishing license to fish here. We require a deposit of 1/2 to hold your equipment. Starting your trip at Cornell (Fort Niobrara Wildlife Refuge launch site) , Berry Bridge or Smith Falls and ending at Berry Bridge, Smith Falls or Brewer Bridge. The half mile of Verdigre is sometimes all floatable, sometimes partially floatable, with some walking. This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC. I havent herd of any floods but im not sure. ALL of our other 70+ other customers that day told us they had a GREAT time and at least 3 of the groups that day have already booked another trip. Dryland Aquatics We needed to care for those customers first. Each member of your group will be required to sign a waiver before embarking on your tubing trip. Please refer to our website: niobraraadventures We have more information there as well as phone numbers to call us and inquire about any questions you may have. The scenery is amazing on this popular stretch of the Niobrara River. Estimated finish time is 4:00 pm at Brewer Bridge, Tank set up with camp chair seating and lifejacket, This trip is suitable for beginners, however we do need to make sure at least one person is willing to get out and help tow the craft to shore at the finish site. QUALITY EQUIPMENT - our tubes, canoes, and kayaks are always in tiptop shape and ready to take you down the Niobrara River. We provide life vests to all customers that they can use for floating in the rare circumstances a tube may deflate. Parking fee and landing fees for Berry Bridge can be paid at the iron box. At that point there was enough water to tube. If two children want to share, one will pay full price and the other will pay the extra rider fee. We do take walk-ins, but strongly suggest that you make your reservation weeks in advance for weekend trips. Those who venture inland find hiking trails through the river valley and climbs to uninterrupted views. An adventure on the river by Marlene and Harlan S. Calvin and Diane made our float trip on Saturday July 21st absolutely the best. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Gorgeous waterfalls, wildlife, diverse vegetation, and scenic bluffs are just some of the features that characterize Niobrara National Scenic Rivers winding path. No matter which trip you choose, you are sure to enjoy the Niobrara river. Most trips start from Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge Canoe Launch Site. We will also have shuttles every hour on Saturdays starting at 8:30 - 11:30. Different trips enable you to float past tall cliffs or raft in faster water. Save some time and download our liability disclaimer and have your groups sign it. this link is to an external site that may or may not meet accessibility guidelines. We will have the tank trips available daily June thru August and by reservation at other times. Rates are per person for Kayaks, and Canoes. Shoppers love the chaps, ropes, saddles and other tools of the cowboy trade at this Valentine store. (800) 337-3119; drylandaquatics.com Red Tape Bring $5 per person for permits. We had an absolutely incredible time on the island! We then shuttled part of your group back when the shuttle was available. On hot summer weekends, as many as 2,000 tubers bob down north-central Nebraskas Niobrara River. The majority of the visitors at Niobrara National Scenic River come there to float on the river either by canoe, kayak, tube, or raft. SO WHAT YOU SEE IS WHAT YOU PAY. At the center, a film about the park is on hand, as well as park rangers who are available to answer all your questions. Holds two adults or one adult and up to two kids. The scenery was wonderful, float was awesome, very relaxing, and an occasional walk in the water. By Nebraska State law, all children 12 years old and younger must WEAR a USCG approved life jacket to float the Niobrara NSR. Holds two adults or one adult and up to two kids. Then ending at Stans Landing or Sunny Brook. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. The Outlaw Scenic Byway, or Nebraska State Highway 12, passes right through the southern edge of Niobrara State Park, which is located just two miles west of the town of Niobrara. Located at 1005 East Highway 20, Valentine, NE, 69201. Seen the Milky Way? As the Niobrara River is a spring fed river we are lucky to be able to provide float trips any time of the year. A 76-mile stretch of the Niobrara River, including the River through the Ft. Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge (NWR), was designated Scenic by Public Law 102-50 in 1991. 2 Hour: Ft Niobrara to Berry or Berry to Brewer Bridge 3 Hour: Ft Niobrara to Nichols Landing/Smith Falls State Park (6 people minimum with the shuttle as well as weekday only) 3 Hour: Berry Bridge to Penbrook 4 Hour: Ft Niobrara to Brewer Bridge(Monday through Friday only) 5 Hour: Ft Niobrara to Penbrook Check-In: We appreciate your concern about floating too much this year. If youd prefer a quiet trip, theres room for that also. As for the equipment rented one of the tubes had a hole in it. Chef Jorge Guzmn's Step-by-Step Guide to Making Tamales. You'll have four hours to relax on a giant tube, floating down the slow flowing, Niobrara river. Oh! Spring and early summer are the best times for Niobrara float trips. Call us at 1-800-337-3119 to make a reservation. It was built at a strategic crossing of the Loire river. Thanks for visiting our site! Starting (Departure Point) Niobrara State Park's RV campground is set at the park's southeastern end, just a bit to the west of the Niobrara River. Keep your eyes open for glimpses of wild turkeys, ducks and geese, plovers, herons, kingfishers, kestrels, peregrine falcons, bald eagles, coyotes, and even wild elk. The weather was perfect! Parking fee and landing fees for Berry Bridge can be paid at the iron box. Hiking, biking, and wildlife watching keep our visitors busy. The Niobrara River winds through Niobrara National Forest Reserve outside of Valentine, Nebraska. We would love to help you set up your trip down the Niobrara River. To become a National Scenic River, a river stretch must meet certain criteria and they must have site-specific outstanding remarkable values. The parks campground is accessible by RVs and trailers, but no RV facilities or campsites are available. Get access to more than 30 brands, premium video, exclusive content, events, mapping, and more. Meet Five Midwest Cake Creators (and Try Their Recipes). Rates are per person for Kayaks, and Canoes. Floats can be as short as 20 minutes and up to 8:00 hours in a day, or you could float all 76 protected miles of river over 3 days! Whether you're looking for a relaxing tubing adventure, an exciting canoe or kayak trip, we've got you covered. In-person support no matter where the road takes you.