Nebraskaland

46 Nebraskaland • April 2020 SMITH FALLS CAMPING. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE NEBRASKA TOURISM COMMISSION MIXED BAG By Bobby Olson, Nebraska Tourism Commission VISIT CHERRY COUNTY In Cherry County, Nebraska's largest county, the adventure is only limited by the length of your trip. Up here, outdoor recreation is the name of the game. With nearly 50 years of experience in leading people down the Niobrara National Scenic River, Sharp's Outfi tters is known for providing one of Nebraska's fi nest fl oat trips. You can even pick your mode of transportation from a selection of canoes, kayaks or tubes. If you'd rather relax on shore, Sharp's Campground features 2½ miles of premium riverside campsites including RV hookups, showers and a clubho use. Nearby, check out the stunning views at Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge or hike up to Smith Falls, Nebraska's highest waterfall, where standing under the water is a cold treat. For another Sandhills experience, head to Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest or take in some history at the Arthur Bowring Sandhills Ranch State Historical Park in Merriman. You'll likely have worked up an appetite after all that exploration, so why not head into town for some chow. Valentine's Peppermill Restaurant & Lounge off ers an unparalleled prime rib in addition to their other Nebraska beef options. In fact, they freely admit that "aging steak properly and not cutting your selection until it is ordered is a bit of an obsession." If fi ne dining is what you're after, look no further than The Prairie Club. These 5-star meals are served overlooking both the gorgeous Snake River canyon and a golf course that gives Scotland's Bandon Dunes a run for its money. While there, be sure to try a glass of Niobrara Valley Vineyards' Marquette, an INDY International Wine Competition silver medalist. However, Marquette is by no means the only wine the Niobrara Valley Vineyards has received acclaim for, and it's an absolute pleasure to visit with the owners in their Nenzel tasting room. For the beer drinkers out there, try Bolo Beer Company's Aquifer Ale to discover a crisp and refreshing pilsner brewed with just a hint of Nebraska corn and pure Ogallala Aquifer water. When you're ready to drop exhaustedly into bed, The Prairie Club features lodging that ranges from a rustic bunkhouse to an elaborate room in the main lodge, for those interested in spending some time hitting the links. A more typical hotel stay is available at The Niobrara Lodge, but if you're looking to stay off the beaten path then you can't go wrong with Heartland Elk Guest Ranch or Niobrara River Ranch. Either way, consider planning your rest around the Nebraska Star Party, a popular Merritt Reservoir event where locals and visitors alike gather atop a bluff to view the stars under some of the clearest skies in the country. Don't worry, you won't need a telescope for this – though you're welcome to bring one. This year, join the fun July 19-24. Since you're probably itching to start planning your trip, feel free to check visitvalentine.com or visitnebraska.com for more helpful information.

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