The Nebraska Sandhills offer a unique blend of quiet solitude and exhilarating outdoor adventure. As the largest sand dune formation in the Western Hemisphere, this region invites travelers to slow down and appreciate the intricate details of the prairie ecosystem. Whether you are navigating the gentle currents of a spring-fed river, driving the winding scenic byways, or hiking through the worldâs largest hand-planted forest, there are endless things to do in Sandhills for every type of traveler seeking an authentic American West experience.
Floating the Niobrara National Scenic River
One of the most popular things to do in Sandhills is to spend a day on the Niobrara National Scenic River. This river is unique because it cuts through several different ecosystems, allowing you to see ponderosa pines alongside eastern hardwoods. The water is generally shallow and moves at a gentle pace, making it perfect for families in tubes, canoes, or kayaks. As you float, you will pass towering sandstone cliffs and several beautiful waterfalls, including Smith Falls, which is the tallest waterfall in the state of Nebraska.
Most visitors start their river journey near the town of Valentine, where several local outfitters provide equipment rentals and shuttle services. The experience is incredibly relaxing, as the river does most of the work, allowing you to focus on spotting wildlife like white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and various turtle species sunning themselves on logs. Be sure to stop at the designated landing areas to stretch your legs and perhaps take a short hike to a hidden spring or overlook. It is a quintessential Sandhills experience that combines water, geology, and lush scenery.
Exploring the Bessey Ranger District
Located near Thedford, the Bessey Ranger District of the Nebraska National Forest is a marvel of human ingenuity. It is the largest hand-planted forest in the United States, originally started in the early 1900s to see if a forest could be grown in the middle of the grassy dunes. Today, it offers a striking contrast to the surrounding prairie, with miles of pine trees providing shade and a different type of habitat for local wildlife. Hiking the trails here allows you to experience the transition from dense forest back out to the rolling, open hills.
For those who enjoy a view, climbing the Scott Lookout Tower provides a 360-degree panorama of the forest and the vast Sandhills stretching toward the horizon. The area is also popular for off-road vehicle enthusiasts, with specific trails designated for ATVs and dirt bikes. If you prefer a slower pace, the picnic areas and campgrounds are well-maintained and offer a peaceful place to rest under the canopy of trees. It is a fascinating destination that proves how deeply humans have interacted with and shaped this seemingly wild landscape over the last century.
Scenic Drives and the Sandhills Journey Byway
If you enjoy the open road, driving the Sandhills Journey Scenic Byway (Highway 2) is one of the essential things to do in Sandhills. This route stretches across the heart of the region, offering endless vistas of grass-stabilized dunes that look like waves in a giant green ocean. The light changes constantly throughout the day, casting long shadows in the morning and bathing the hills in a golden glow by late afternoon. There are numerous pull-outs where you can stop to take photos or simply soak in the silence of the Great Plains.
Along the way, you can stop in small towns like Broken Bow or Hyannis to get a taste of local ranching culture. These communities are the lifeblood of the region, and visiting a local diner or mercantile gives you a sense of the grit and hospitality required to live in this remote environment. Keep an eye out for windmills and cattle herds, which are iconic fixtures of the landscape. The drive is not just about the destination; it is about the meditative quality of the vast, rolling terrain and the sheer scale of the sky above you.
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Valentine National Wildlife Refuge Birding
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Wildlife Viewing at Valentine National Wildlife Refuge
For birdwatchers and nature lovers, a visit to the Valentine National Wildlife Refuge is a must. This protected area encompasses over 70,000 acres of mid and tall-grass prairie, interspersed with numerous lakes and marshes. The refuge is a critical stop for migratory birds, and during the spring and fall, the sky and water are filled with thousands of ducks, geese, and shorebirds. You might also spot sharp-tailed grouse performing their elaborate mating dances on traditional 'leks' if you arrive early enough in the spring.
Beyond birds, the refuge is home to prairie dogs, coyotes, and large herds of mule deer. There are several observation decks and well-marked trails that allow for safe and respectful wildlife viewing. The lakes themselves are often filled with lily pads and surrounded by rushes, creating a serene, almost prehistoric feel. It is a quiet place where the only sounds are the wind in the grass and the calls of the birds. Remember to bring a good pair of binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens, as the animals often keep their distance in the wide-open spaces.
Family Activities and Rainy Day Options
While the Sandhills are primarily an outdoor destination, there are several things to do in Sandhills if you have kids or find yourself facing a rainy afternoon. In Valentine, the Niobrara Council and various local visitor centers offer educational displays about the region's unique geology and the Ogallala Aquifer that sits beneath the dunes. Kids will enjoy learning about the ancient fossils found in the area, including those of prehistoric camels and rhinos that once roamed these plains. Many local libraries and small-town museums also house artifacts from the pioneer and ranching eras.
If the weather is just mildly wet, a visit to the Cowboy Trail is still a great option. This converted rail-trail offers a flat, easy surface for biking or walking, and the portion crossing the Niobrara River on a high bridge provides a thrilling view even under grey skies. For a unique indoor experience, look for local craft shops or art galleries in towns like Broken Bow, which often feature work by regional artists inspired by the prairie landscape. Always check the official park websites for weather updates, as summer storms can pass quickly, often leaving behind beautiful rainbows over the dunes.