NEBRASKAland Magazine is dedicated to outstanding photography and informative writing with an engaging mix of articles and photos highlighting Nebraska’s outdoor activities, parklands, wildlife, history and people.
Issue link: http://mag.outdoornebraska.gov/i/498175
I n 1994 the Rails to Trails Conservancy gifted to the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission the longest rails to trails conversion in the nation, the Cowboy Trail. Born in the 1870s as a route to Black Hills gold, this 321-mile railroad corridor created and supplied settlements across northern Nebraska. Soon after the trains stopped in 1992, the conservancy purchased the right-of-way and thus began this rail-to-trail project partnership. When completed, the Cowboy Trail will be the world's longest rails-to-trails cycling and hiking trail. Currently, about two-thirds of the route has been surfaced: the 195-mile stretch between Norfolk and Valentine. Some surfaces are paved, while most of the trail is covered with fi nely crushed limestone. The remaining western 126 miles between Valentine and Chadron is under various stages of development. For years, the Commission has been working with communities along the Cowboy Trail to develop and promote the trail. A major interruption of this effort occurred in 2010, when the Elkhorn River fl ooded causing millions of dollars in damage to the trail's infrastructure, some of which has not yet been rebuilt. To fi nd out more about the Cowboy Trail, visit Outdoornebraska.gov and search Cowboy Trail. MAY 2015 • NEBRASKAland 29 Bike Riding Recommendations A multi-day trip on the Cowboy Trail can either be enjoyable or miserable. Follow the recommendations below to make your bike trip as comfortable as possible. • Ride bicycles with wider tires, such as mountain or hybrid bicycles; road bikes with thin tires will sink into the trail's limestone surface. • Avoid traveling during winter months, for obvious reasons, and because certain amenities may not be available during this time of year at city parks, such as water and restrooms. • Having support, someone to follow you and carry your camping gear in a vehicle, will make your trip easier and more enjoyable. The trail's limestone surface is not ideal for hauling extra weight on your bicycle. Expect to travel an average speed of 10 miles per hour. • Each member of your group should carry a cell phone and charger. Radios would work, too, because riders may get separated. • A smartphone is indispensable when it comes to weather. We checked for wind and rain every day to determine when to be on the trail the next morning. • Travel from Valentine to Norfolk for a slightly downhill slope and to avoid the westerly wind. • Remember to line your tires or use puncture resistant tires. The Texas sandbur seeds (puncture vine) that grow along the trail are unavoidable; bring extra inner tubes, tire repair kit, bike multi- tool, tire pressure gauge and small tire pump. • Bring more comfortable footwear for walking around camp — your feet will thank you. • Dress in layers to combat unexpected weather, especially rain gear and high visibility clothing. • Always carry extra water because towns can be many miles apart. Hydration packs are easy to use on the trail. • Other items to bring in your saddle bag: sunscreen, lip balm, sunglasses, bike gloves, fi rst-aid kit, head lamp/fl ashlight, anti-chafe balm, insect repellent and snacks. Cowboy Trail History By Kirk Nelson, Assistant Division Administrator, Planning and Programming In case of a flat tire, bring a tire repair kit and extra inner tubes. In case of a flat tire, bring a tire repair