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/985091
By Erin Lenz, Nebraska Tourism Commission Travelogue Visit Valentine A small town with big adventure, Valentine is waiting to be explored. Located in the beautiful Sandhills of Cherry County, Valentine has plenty of experiences and views for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether it's a scenic trip down the Niobrara River, bike ride on the Cowboy Trail or a hike through a state park, you will already be planning your return trip. Do See the history of the Sandhills and ranch life up close at Arthur Bowring Ranch State Historical Park, a working cattle ranch and living history museum. Walk through the visitor center and view artifacts from early ranching days or take a glimpse at corrals, barns, bunkhouses and sod house. The Cherry County Historical Society Museum is another destination where you can learn more about the history of Cherry County. Interested in viewing wildlife? Five miles east of Valentine is home to a herd of bison, elk and a prairie dog town at the Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge. Or catch a fish at one of the top fisheries in the state, Merritt Reservoir, known for its walleye fishing, sandy beaches, boating and swimming opportunities. Good bass, northern pike, perch and bluegill fishing is also popular in the nine lakes open year-round at the Valentine National Wildlife Refuge. Last but not least, don't forget to mark down Aug. 5-10, 2018, on your calendar to attend the Nebraska Star Party, one of the nation's premier stargazing events. Eat After you've finished golfing one of the two world-class golf courses at The Prairie Club, stop into The Prairie Club Lodge to experience the cuisine of "cow country." Peppermill Restaurant & Lounge is another great option if you're in the mood to try some of the local favorites made with Nebraska- produced beef. Once you've had your fill of beef, quench your thirst with an Indian Pale Ale from Bolo Beer Co. or try one of the other beers on their menu like the Wild West Wheat Ale or Wild Plum Gose. Not too far from Valentine, enjoy a taste of Sandhills wine at Niobrara Valley Vineyards. Sip on their award- winning Marquette and semi-dry white wine, Boss Cow. Stay Not only is The Prairie Club great for dining and golfing, but it also offers a few different lodging styles from a rustic Bunkhouse room (wooden deck to view sunsets included), a cabin right on the edge of Snake River Canyon or a room in the main lodge. Heartland Elk Guest Ranch and Merritt Trading Post Resort offer cabin experiences close to nature, or camping is available at a variety of different locations along the Niobrara River, including Smith Falls State Park. If you're more interested in a restful hotel stay with complimentary breakfast, The Niobrara Lodge is perfect for you. Explore Outdoor adventures are waiting all throughout Valentine. Tube, canoe or kayak down the scenic bends of the Niobrara River where you will experience dramatic bluffs and wildlife diversity. While you're floating down the river, don't forget to stop at the state's highest waterfall, Smith Falls. Dry off and take a hike to the state's largest waterfall by volume, Snake Falls or walk through the mile-long, self-guided hiking trail: Jim McAllister Nature Trail at Smith Falls State Park. If you're looking for a great trail to bike, hike or ride horseback, look no further than the Cowboy Trail. The Cowboy Trail is the largest rails-to- trails conversion project in the United States with 192 miles finished from Valentine east to Norfolk. One of the most scenic parts of the trail is the former railroad bridge east of Valentine that offers breathtaking views from 150 feet above the Niobrara River. ■ 8 NEBRASKAland • JUNE 2018 Visitors at Nebraska's famous Smith Falls. Sod House Sunday at Bowring Ranch State Historical Park near Merriman. PHOTO BY JEFF KURRUS PHOTO BY JUSTIN HAAG on Valentine ●