The highway 137 bridge landing sustained flood damage in 2019 and the landing restoration by NDOT has been completed. Rental comes with Paddle and PFD.-We offer Kayak Delivery and Retrieval services in immediate area that includes the Niobrara River and Missouri River-We offer Shuttle Service for one driver to . SIMPLE RESERVATIONS - our online system handles individual and group reservations. Float duration varies based on which landings you plan to get in and out on. See the Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge from a whole new perspective. 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: Parking fees and landing fees can be paid at the campground. As clearly stated on our website there is a hall mile of the Verdigre before you get into the Niobrara River. We did very little walking. Recently Updated Our Water Adventures is a combination of floating, walking, and exploring. Niobrara National Scenic River - Fort Niobrara Launch Site, There are many landings and launch sites for canoes, kayaks, and tubes on the Niobrara National Scenic River. All children 12 and under are required to wear life jackets at all times. At Rock Barn (mile 30), camp on a grassy terrace looking over the Niobrara Valley Preserve of The Nature Conservancy, where 60,000 acres of native grasslands and bottomland forest stretch uninterrupted along 25 miles of the river. I did this with my mother who is in her 80's which was not a good idea. As for the equipment rented one of the tubes had a hole in it. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. On our most popular trip you'll experience a wonderful stretch of the Niobrara River, from Ft. Niobrara to Brewer Bridge. Keep your eyes out for herons, bald eagles and other species along your trip! Wildlife can be seen from the river along with an abundance of waterfalls, unique for the Midwest and Great Plains. Rates are per person for Kayaks, and Canoes. An ancient volcanic eruption resulted in a rich cache of fossils near Royal, 60 miles northwest of Norfolk. These guys are the real deal! The custom hotel shuttle is an excellent option for those staying in Valentine and surrounding areas who have a tubing adventure . In-person support no matter where the road takes you. 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. Approaching Valentine, the trail crosses the Niobrara River on a century-old, 148-foot-high steel trestle bridge; stop for valley views. Cabins at Lord Ranch face the gently undulating Sandhills; kitchenettes and grills make stays self-sufficient. 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). We learned that the Niobrara is actually rated as a top-10 river for canoeing in the United States. Thanks for visiting our site! Berry Bridge Campground/launch or landing site: launching or landing, and camping. This is very unique way to float the Niobrara River in itself. There are no direct public transportation services to Niobrara National Scenic River. It is unfortunate that you did not enjoy your trip. 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. On the right, at mile 12.4, six-foot-high Berry Falls spills into the river, one of the scores of freshets from the Ogallala Aquifer that plunge down the valley walls. Water-related recreational activities such as canoeing, kayaking, tubing and floating are among the most popular activities with visitors to the park. Parking spaces are available for vehicles at the Niobrara National Scenic River Visitor Center. The parks campground is accessible by RVs and trailers, but no RV facilities or campsites are available. Penbrook Landing/Campground: landing and camping. *You will have to portage around Rocky Ford and the Egelhoff Rapids. The staff at the pick up point was just as unhelpful as the staff at the starting point. Additional Details are available at www.nps.gov/coronavirus. We will then instruct you to Brewer Bridge to leave your vehicle, then take you to your launch point at Berry Bridge. Must have park sticker to park a Smith Falls State Park. Office visits are limited to two people per group, and we ask that you wear a mask. Thats a big part of the reason why, in 1976, the feds added 76 of the streams prettiest and most pristine miles to the National Wild and Scenic River System. Our tubes comfortably fit one adult however children under 10 years old are welcome to share a tube with an adult for an additional cost. The tank trips must be reserved in advance, as we have limited availability. Your group was one hour early as confirmed even by the person in your group who made the reservation. Kids activities are also hosted at the center. Tricks to find the perfect rig. Float Times & Map. Note that public land available for hunting along the Niobrara is limited, while on the other hand, most of the land where hunting occurs is on private property. At that point there was enough water to tube. We recommend contacting the Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge for more information about this launch site. Five cabins accommodate four to 14 people. Your tube will be hooked up to the other people in your group so you dont need to worry about drifting apart! Thanks. The Niobrara River and its surroundings are home to a range of wildlife, including turkey, deer, rocky mountain elk, mink, otters and whole host of birds. Then ending at Stans Landing or Sunny Brook. The channel races through an easy class 2 rapid. Although there are no provisions for camping at Niobrara National Scenic River, there are loads of opportunities for fun. (800) 337-3119; drylandaquatics.com. SO WHAT YOU SEE IS WHAT YOU PAY. Took an afternoon trip with Niobrara Adventures, with 16 teens and 2 adult sponsors (Cross Country Team-building Trip), we were staying in the State Park nearby. THEY ARE Available AT THE Park OFFICE. Responsible Consumption of Alcohol is Permitted, 24 hours up to 50 Minutes Prior to Trip Departure, 2:00pm or 4:00pm Peak Season / 3:00pm Seasonal, Sunscreen Insect Repellent Hat Water, Shoes Suitable for Wading (not flip flops). My duahters loved it and the water is fine. Little Outlaw Outfitters were superb' everything we needed for our float they handled. Another runs a microbakery from her home. 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! See how you can tap into finding wellness while you explore the National Parks. Arrangements can be made for large groups staying in Valentine. The more your referral link gets used, the more money youll start earning. Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! Licensed and Insured through the state of Nebraska. Ferrires was the site of the Benedictine . The Niobrara is a class I river with class II and III rapids. It is rare but it may happen. We had to walk about an hour or more to where the creek flows into the Niobrara River. With fresh paint and a terraced slope, a Minneapolis stucco goes from mousy to magnetic. Niobrara River And the fifth is a James Beard finalist chef. If you'd like to set up or inquire about a "group booking" call us at 402-376-2046. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Nature & Wildlife Relax as the spring-fed, slow moving river leads you past the pine covered hills, steep cliff banks and waterfalls. Learn more about volunteers and what they do for Niobrara NSR! As the Niobrara River is a spring fed river we are lucky to be able to provide float trips any time of the year. The majority of the visitors at Niobrara National Scenic River come there to float on the river either by canoe, kayak, tube, or raft. Boost Your Home's Curb Appeal With These Ideas from a Minneapolis Makeover. We do take walk-ins, but strongly suggest that you make your reservation weeks in advance for weekend trips. Call us at 1-800-337-3119 to make a reservation. The spring-fed river runs knee- to hip-high at most in summer, so there's little to fear if you overturn. $65 per person (2 person minimum) for any one day trip. this link is to an external site that may or may not meet accessibility guidelines. Sign in|Recent Site Activity|Report Abuse|Print Page|Powered By Google Sites. Heading out the door? The staff had our reservation incorrect and basically called us incompetent. However, Diane and the team provide great job of making it a great day on the water. Take the left channel around wooded Fritzs Island (mile 22.6). Egelhoffs Rapid, a long, rocky, class 2 slide, often fills boats with water; take the 1/4-mile portage over the sandy hill to your left. Excellent opportunities for game hunting are available at Niobrara National Scenic River, making the park a favored destination for hunters and trappers. Call for price and more info. Whether you're looking for a relaxing tubing adventure, an exciting canoe or kayak trip, we've got you covered. From Berry Bridge to Rocky Ford, near Valentine, its a Great Plains version of a spring-break flotilla at Lake Havasu. Tube & Kayak rentals on Niobrara river with shuttle service. At least 83 eastern and 47 western species of plants and animals reach the limit of their ranges in the Niobrara Valley. No parking or landing fees at Brewer Bridge. River trips range from 2 hours all the way to 6 hours, depending on your trip selectionand date. You get into the tub and float for about and hour down a stream. They shuttle you upstream and pick the gear when done. It's also home to the state's biggest (only??) Come midweek to avoid summer's weekend canoe traffic. Whats more is that there are opportunities to socialize with other paddlers while enjoying these activities. Shoppers love the chaps, ropes, saddles and other tools of the cowboy trade at this Valentine store. Owners are great to work with, accommodating, good equipment, safety conscious, family-owned. Rest assured youll enjoy beautiful sights of the Niobrara National Scenic River and Nebraskas highest waterfall at the park. At 70 feet, the icy shower of Smith Falls (east of Valentine) is the state's tallest. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge is the place to see the Old West's shaggy mascot; about 350 bison live there. A memorable canoe journey passes through the gently rolling terrain of north-central Nebraskas cowboy country. They couldn't get rid of us fast enough. Remember: Someone will have to get wet to land the tanks at your finish site. Day of reservations may not be available. Fall is prime time, thanks to mild daily highs and no bugs. Accurate weather information from weather.gov, 214 W US Highway 20 Below are two locations you will see on a frequent basis using Brewers Canoers & Tubers. Starting at any launch site and ending at Stans Landing or Sunny Brook both days. Thanks for joining us and your kind review! The Niobrara River winds through Niobrara National Forest Reserve outside of Valentine, Nebraska. It is rare in our area to have the Niobrara River flood. QUALITY EQUIPMENT - our tubes, canoes, and kayaks are always in tiptop shape and ready to take you down the Niobrara River. The visitors center has maps of the 3-mile auto tour for wildlife viewing. Each member of your group will be required to sign a waiver before embarking on your tubing trip. We do not send anyone on the river if it is flooding or moving too fast. 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. Des Moines' Hottest Food Neighborhoods You Need to Know About. Usually, we see a few people in canoes and kayaks in the area by mid-April, weather depending. Driving. Visitors who venture off the river find spectacular landscapes in the forested river valley and surrounding Sandhills. 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! With your trip starting at Cornell (Fort Niobrara Wildlife Refuge launch site) and ending at Smith Falls or Brewer Bridge on day one. NE The Niobrara cuts through the surrounding plains forming a deep valley. 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). Seen the Milky Way? In fact, a 76-mile portion of the Niobrara River was designated as a national scenic river for its breathtaking natural beauty, and wildlife. waterfall, Smith's Falls at Smith Falls State Park. Please be ready 15-30 minutes early if we are shuttling you from the river. This includes a shuttle from Sparks, life jackets and paddles (canoes and kayaks only) * TAX, LAUNCH AND LANDING FEES ARE INCLUDED IN THE PRICE. $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 On hot summer weekends, as many as 2,000 tubers bob down north-central Nebraskas Niobrara River. Come Again! Fees 76 miles of Free-Flowing Fun With a little something for everyone, the Niobrara National Scenic River is a destination for crossing adventures off your bucket list. We used the shuttle service and the gentleman that was driving was very pleasant and knowledgeable about the river. Peak summer brings crowds, and due to low rainfall, paddlers occasionally have to pull their canoes through shallow spots. Enjoy the natural soundscape of the Niobrara National Scenic River. With a little something for everyone, the Niobrara National Scenic River is a destination for crossing adventures off your bucket list. Camping at Smith Falls. Seasonal Information: The scenery is amazing on this popular stretch of the Niobrara River. It fans out quickly, its channels braiding back and forth. Please call (402) 376-3708 to inquire about availability. 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. If you are staying in Valentine we ask you drive to Sparks. The campsites are, however, equipped with potable water, toilets, and showers. We visited in the off season but they made it very easy. To become a National Scenic River, a river stretch must meet certain criteria and they must have site-specific outstanding remarkable values. Parking fee and landing fees for Berry Bridge can be paid at the iron box. All ages, but minors must be with an adult parent or guardian. Our services include shuttle service and your choice of vessel - Canoe, Kayak, and of course our most popular the giant float Tubes. A diverse array of bird life calls the Niobrara Valley home. For many Midwesterners, holiday feasting kicks off with a relish tray. After a brief stop at the waterfall you will continue for about 2 more hours to your final destination at Brewer Bridge. One of the state's best fishing lakes, the reservoir (26 miles southwest of Valentine) also hosts the annual Nebraska Star Party, which attracts astronomers of all skill levels for lectures and stargazing. We're sorry that the trip did not go well for you. NO HIDDEN FEES. The half mile of Verdigre is sometimes all floatable, sometimes partially floatable, with some walking. *$10 per vessel charge will be added to haul your equipment*. Please make reservation at least 1 week in advance. SO WHAT YOU SEE IS WHAT YOU PAY. This includes a shuttle from Sparks, life jackets and paddles (canoes and kayaks only) * TAX, LAUNCH AND LANDING FEES ARE INCLUDED IN THE PRICE. We do by reservation so we can try to care for our customers in a timely manner. Wear bug spray/sunscreen. At the end of your trip, we did not want to get rid of you, we wanted you to relax in the river and wait for the shuttle that you agreed to wait for. Shuttles are available to Fort Niobrara from one of several local outfitters. Rent from a pro and travel like one, too. The scenery is amazing on this popular stretch of the Niobrara River. This cost of the tubing + hotel shuttle is $90-95 per person. Back on the Niobrara, continuous riffles whisk you five miles through the Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge. It has its own parking lot. Shoes suitable for wading (not flip flops) are recommended. Most popular for river recreation, you can float the Niobrara River on a canoe, tube, or kayak as a beginner and have a blast. Anyone over 12 years old must HAVE a life jacket. Once youve finished tubing, we will meet you and take you back to your accommodation. As a result, the park is a popular destination for these water-related recreational activities. Grasslands surround lakes at this 71,516-acre area, where visitors bird-watch, hike and fish. Many of our summer visitors come to float the river for the day. This casual Valentine eatery dishes generous portions of comfort food, like chicken-fried steak and beer-battered french fries. If you are staying on the river we can shuttle you from your camp location or site. Spring and early summer are the best times for Niobrara float trips. 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? Far removed from the urban landscape (the closest major city is more than 200 miles away), the 76 miles of the Niobrara designated as a national scenic river run through forests, bluffs and wildlife preserves. Hope to see you again! We will then instruct you to Berry Bridge launch point where you will begin your trip. One has conquered the world of plant-based baking. Each bend brings a long view of grasslands dotted with pine and red cedar. SHUTTLE RIDES - we offer multiple shuttle options to make it as easy as possible! There was no flooding in the Niobrara River this year and we had MANY children with parents that had a great time! Take-out comes in 16 miles, with a carry up the bank at Meadville Bridge. Download the app. Thanks for your interest. Hoping to go again! An adventure on the river by Marlene and Harlan S. Calvin and Diane made our float trip on Saturday July 21st absolutely the best. Wear watershoes or sandals and get ready to drag your canoe for short stretches if you misjudge the depth and run aground on the sandy shoals. It's an excellent river for beginners, though if the water is low, you will . 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. Bait and lure fishing methods are sufficient to catch channel catfish, bluegill, carp, grass pickerel, and many other fish species available in the river. Sparks, NE 69220 Shuttle times from Sparks are 8:30 am & 10:30 am. The Niobrara River is a VERY FAMILY safe river. All of these add up to about 160 plant species inhabiting the park. 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. Backpack West Virginia's Cranberry Wilderness, Garden of the Gods Illinois to Lusk Creek Canyon, Want To Hike In Middle-Earth? . Get to know the winter safety gear you need in your pack. We challenge you to try one of these activities. Some are privately owned and some are open for public use. Due to the fact that you arrived one hour early, you arrived the same time that our scheduled customers for that time slot arrived. Attractions nearby include the Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge, Niobrara Valley Preserve, and Smith Falls State Park. We used this service for a Saturday 4 hour trip. Thats because the activity is extremely enjoyable and refreshing. This will help streamline getting on the river and pickup times. Rates are per person for Kayaks, and Canoes. 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. The Niobrara River and its surroundings are home to a range of wildlife, including turkey, deer, rocky mountain elk, mink, otters and whole host of birds. To guarantee a good time, come prepared. While planning your trip, refer to our guide page for length of float trips and launching and landing sites available. Paddlers on the Niobrara . We were happy to have you join us and hope you come again. SEARCH BY DATE FOR AVAILABILITY OR SELECT THE TYPE OF EQUIPMENT, "It's not just a season, it's a lifestyle". Plus a $10 per vessel charge to haul your equipment. We require a deposit of 1/2 to hold your equipment. We had a wonderful time today going on a float trip with Niobrara Adventures. We will have the tank trips available daily June thru August and by reservation at other times. 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. Convenient Shuttle Options Most of our customers use our shuttle service as it is both convenient and reasonable. For a quick overview of our prices, check out our price list: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------. Tamales are a project, but many handseven tiny onesmake lighter work. You'll pass the Smith Falls waterfall, the tallest waterfall in Nebraska as well as other areas of outstanding natural beauty. Starting at Cornell, Berry Bridge, Smith Falls or Brewer Bridge and ending at Rock Barn. Our services include shuttle service and your choice of vessel - Canoe, Kayak, and of course our most popular the giant float Tubes. They are available at the park office. We do trips by reservation only. Consult our, Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge has one. your own safety, we recommend keeping your g. Please be respectful of social distancing at launch sites/take out sites, as well as waterfalls and other stops you may make along the way. FROM BERRY BRIDGE ON ALCOHOL IS PERMITTED. We're sorry to hear about your experience you had a year ago.