Some are privately owned and some are open for public use. Each member of your group will be required to sign a waiver before embarking on your tubing trip. Seasonal Information: We are now offering trips starting from Berry to either Brewer Bridge (4 hour trip) and to Stan's Landing (6 hour trip). For a quick overview of our prices, check out our price list: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------. Map and Guidebook Get them both in the waterproof Niobrara River Guide ($15, niobrarariverguide.com). Date Released Rent from a pro and travel like one, too. more, River Rafting & Tubing Kayaking & Canoeing. On our most popular trip you'll experience a wonderful stretch of the Niobrara River, from Ft. Niobrara to Brewer Bridge. Other birds youll find at the park include bald eagles, peregrine falcons, whooping cranes, and least tern. 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Use caution when accessing the landing, In accordance with CDC protocols, in medium COVID-19 community level areas, masks are optional, and you are welcome to wear a mask if it makes you more comfortable. Remember: Someone will have to get wet to land the tanks at your finish site. The staff had our reservation incorrect and basically called us incompetent. We enjoyed every part of it and the staff went over and above to make sure that we had everything for our float trip!! Visitors who venture off the river find spectacular landscapes in the forested river valley and surrounding Sandhills. So grab your cooler, put on your sunscreen, and get ready for an adventure of a llifetime with Brewers Canoers. We will have the tank trips available daily June thru August and by reservation at other times. Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge has one handicap accessible canoe, kayak, or tube launch. Explore the natural characteristics along the Niobrara National Scenic River. Each bend brings a long view of grasslands dotted with pine and red cedar. This prairie river, designated under the US National Wild & Scenic Rivers System, is indeed extraordinary. It is rare in our area to have the Niobrara River flood. Boost Your Home's Curb Appeal With These Ideas from a Minneapolis Makeover. 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. Shoes suitable for wading (not flip flops) are recommended. Brewer Bridge: limited landing during peak season. Please be ready 15-30 minutes early if we are shuttling you from the river. Day of reservations may not be available. Arrangements can be made for large groups staying in Valentine. We tubed the first weekend of Aug '14, Diane said the first 1/2 mile is walking until you get to the Niobrara, and warned us the river level is down due to the draught and irrigation. Enjoy a wonderful afternoon effortlessly gliding down the river on an inflatable tube. Make the most of your river trip with our paddle guides, advice on renting equipment and what to know before you float. (If Smith Falls is just a pit-stop while you float and you are not pulling out there, just stopping to see the falls, then a pass is not required because you are not accessing the parking areas by vehicle. (800) 337-3119; drylandaquatics.com. If you are staying in Valentine we ask you drive to Sparks. We used this service for a Saturday 4 hour trip. Loved having you. Accurate weather information from weather.gov, 214 W US Highway 20 So sorry, we didn't notice we had a question. Valentine (population: 2,800) is all about outdoor adventure. Water flows determine amount of portaging so be prepared to walk with your tube in low water areas. Water level Check river volume at waterdata.usgs.gov/nwis/uv?06461500. Back in your boat, youll pass sandy bluffs and sandstone cliffs. It's also home to the state's biggest (only??) Thanks for joining us and your kind review. Niobrara State Park's RV campground is set at the park's southeastern end, just a bit to the west of the Niobrara River. Parking fees and landing fees can be paid at the campground. Five cabins accommodate four to 14 people. Diane and Calvin were so helpful and made our float trip the BEST!! To become a National Scenic River, a river stretch must meet certain criteria and they must have site-specific outstanding remarkable values. NO HIDDEN FEES. Thank you so Much Marlene and Harlan. We of course monitor the river conditions and the Niobrara River was great this year! In fact, a 76-mile portion of the Niobrara River was designated as a national scenic river for its breathtaking natural beauty, and wildlife. We then shuttled part of your group back when the shuttle was available. A diverse array of bird life calls the Niobrara Valley home. Thanks for your review and hope to see you again! Come along with our staff on a guided interpretive float. The tank trips must be reserved in advance, as we have limited availability. Holds two adults or one adult and up to two kids. So we made room for at least one of your drivers to get a ride to their vehicle. Very poor Expirence. Transportation. 100 for any one day trip. OUR GIFT SHOP HAS EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR FUN IN THE SUN, Berry Bridge Campground/launch or landing site. We require a deposit of 1/2 to hold your equipment. Rates are per person for Kayaks, and Canoes. There is not alot of walking. Little Outlaw Outfitters were superb' everything we needed for our float they handled. It is unfortunate that you did not enjoy your trip. *TAX IS INCLUDED IN THE PRICE. Only few parts of the park are can be accessed by vehicles. With our experience and top-of-the-line equipment, you'll be able to enjoy all that the Niobrara River has to offer while creating unforgettable memories with your friends and family. Whats more is that there are opportunities to socialize with other paddlers while enjoying these activities. Sign in|Recent Site Activity|Report Abuse|Print Page|Powered By Google Sites. Parking fees and landing fees can be paid at the campground. These DIY Orange Beeswax Candles Will Make Your Home Smell Amazing, Ring in the New Year with This Glam Star Garland, An Eye-Catching Oval Treat Box You Can Make, Make a Colorful Paper Raffia Wreath to Welcome Fall, DIY Pistachio Wheat Stalks for Fall Decorating, Exploring in Nebraska's Stunning Sandhills, 76 miles of the Niobrara designated as a national scenic river. Most popular for river recreation, you can float the Niobrara River on a canoe, tube, or kayak as a beginner and have a blast. NO HIDDEN FEES. Berry Bridge Campground/launch or landing site: launching or landing, and camping. 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. Most popular for river recreation, you can float the Niobrara River on a canoe, tube, or kayak as a beginner and have a blast. Excellent opportunities for game hunting are available at Niobrara National Scenic River, making the park a favored destination for hunters and trappers. From Berry Bridge to Rocky Ford, near Valentine, its a Great Plains version of a spring-break flotilla at Lake Havasu. Call us at 1-800-337-3119 to make a reservation. The highway 137 bridge landing sustained flood damage in 2019 and the landing restoration by NDOT has been completed. Get to know the winter safety gear you need in your pack. *Take advantage of one of our services and we will provide you with a detailed river map, point out safety issues, and provide you with directions to hidden water falls and scenic nature trails that enable you to hike through six different ecosystems found in the Niobrara River Valley. All prices for the rental of canoes, tubes and kayaks include shuttle from Sparks, life jackets, paddles for (canoes and kayaks only). We look forward to helping you get outdoors to experience a Niobrara River Adventure! You get into the tub and float for about and hour down a stream. Below are two locations you will see on a frequent basis using Brewers Canoers & Tubers. Loved having your group! As for the equipment rented one of the tubes had a hole in it. For groups of 8+, we can shuttle you from hotels/motels and drop you back after your tubing experience. Take-out comes in 16 miles, with a carry up the bank at Meadville Bridge. 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. Additional Details are available at www.nps.gov/coronavirus. You'll have plenty of opportunities to spot local wildlife as you pass through the peaceful US Fish & Wildlife Ft. Niobrara Wildlife Refuge, a designated Wilderness area. Youre covered with our custom protection packages. Convenient Shuttle Options Most of our customers use our shuttle service as it is both convenient and reasonable. * IF YOU PARK AT SMITH FALLS STATE PARK YOU WILL NEED A PARK STICKER. Parents are asked to sign these on behalf of their children under 18. To guarantee a good time, come prepared. We do take walk-ins, but strongly suggest that you make your reservation weeks in advance for weekend trips. The campsites are, however, equipped with potable water, toilets, and showers. The rails-to-trails route runs 195 miles from Norfolk to Valentine. It is located on the North side of the Cornell Bridge on the way to the Burr Oak Picnic Area. 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. You'll have four hours to relax on a giant tube, floating down the slow flowing, Niobrara river. We were happy to have you join us and hope you come again. The scenery is amazing on this popular stretch of the Niobrara River. . Title, Download the official NPS app before your next visit. Please make reservation at least 1 week in advance. We pride ourselves in courteous, friendly service and hope you will give us another chance. Your tube will be hooked up to the other people in your group so you dont need to worry about drifting apart! 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. Brewers Canoers and Tubers has an office in Valentine, Nebraska, and has been providing summer vacation memories since 1984. Download the app. As the Niobrara River is a spring fed river we are lucky to be able to provide float trips any time of the year. Visitors are likely to see great herons around the river; white pelicans, cormorants, and green herons migrating in spring; spotted sandpipers along the sandbars; and kingfishers on the water surface. All Rights Reserved. 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. 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. On hot summer weekends, as many as 2,000 tubers bob down north-central Nebraskas Niobrara River. Niobrara River near Smith Falls State Park, Top Things to Do in Valentine and the Niobrara River Valley. Call for price and more info. Cowboy Trail. Just in time for Great Outdoors Month in June, rangers share their insider tips for visiting the Niobrara NSR. With a little something for everyone, the Niobrara National Scenic River is a destination for crossing adventures off your bucket list. Thanks for the review! Canoe, tube or kayak trip from Cornell Bridge (Fort Niobrara Wildlife Refuge launch site) to Smith Falls or Brewer Bridge. Please call to bookour hotel shuttle service! 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 . Rates are per person for Kayaks, and Canoes. We dare not mess with an iconat least, not too much. Float duration varies based on which landings you plan to get in and out on. The tanks we use are 7 round and have a portable camp chairs for your seating. Sunscreen, insect repellent, and sunglasses with a floating eyeglass holder are always a great idea. See you on the river! QUALITY EQUIPMENT - our tubes, canoes, and kayaks are always in tiptop shape and ready to take you down the Niobrara River. The chteau was expanded by Maximilien de Bthune, first duke of Sully and prime minister of King Henry IV of France (1560-1641), who is buried on the grounds of his . SEARCH BY DATE FOR AVAILABILITY OR SELECT THE TYPE OF EQUIPMENT, "It's not just a season, it's a lifestyle". We're sorry to hear about your experience you had a year ago. Everyone over 18 must sign our liability form, any one under 18 must have a parent or guardian sign the form releasing consent. US. We could have went on longer being so much fun! Midwest Living is part of the Meredith Home Group. Our Stock Tank float trip will start at Berry Bridge and will float about 2 hours to the Smith Falls waterfall, which is a huge attraction in our area. 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: The rails-to-trails route runs 195 miles from Norfolk to Valentine. No matter which trip you choose, you are sure to enjoy the Niobrara river. If you are experiencing any symptoms of Covid-19 or believe you have been exposed, please call as soon as possible to reschedule/cancel your trip. Loved having your group! Family-Owned Nebraskan Company Offering Niobrara River Water Activities. Office visits are limited to two people per group, and we ask that you wear a mask. We do not send anyone on the river if it is flooding or moving too fast. Get access to more than 30 brands, premium video, exclusive content, events, mapping, and more. This includes a shuttle from Sparks, life jackets and paddles (canoes and kayaks only) * TAX, LAUNCH AND LANDING FEES ARE INCLUDED IN THE PRICE. A parking pass or Nebraska State Parks day/annual pass is required at Smith Falls State Park, to access the launch and landing sites. Your group chose to wait at the end of your trip for your shuttle back. At the center, a film about the park is on hand, as well as park rangers who are available to answer all your questions. Starting at any launch site and ending at Stans Landing or Sunny Brook both days. If two children want to share, one will pay full price and the other will pay the extra rider fee. A memorable canoe journey passes through the gently rolling terrain of north-central Nebraskas cowboy country. 69201, Download the official NPS app before your next visit. Niobrara Adventures: Hours, Address, Niobrara Adventures Reviews: 4/5, Nice tubing options and excellent service. Attractions nearby include the Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge, Niobrara Valley Preserve, and Smith Falls State Park. Located about 21 miles west of Niobrara National Scenic River Visitor Center, along County Road, Smith Falls State Park offers tent-only camping opportunities within 23 campsites. Thanks. Relax as the spring-fed, slow moving river gently carries you past the pine covered hills, steep cliff banks and waterfalls. Thats because the activity is extremely enjoyable and refreshing. We will also have shuttles every hour on Saturdays starting at 8:30 - 11:30. Hope to see you again! While planning your trip, refer to our guide page for length of float trips and launching and landing sites available. Tamales are a project, but many handseven tiny onesmake lighter work. All ages, but minors must be with an adult parent or guardian. If you possess appropriate hunting licenses, you can also hunt on public lands, and private lands (with permission), within the park. Shuttle times from Sparks are 8:30 am & 10:30 am. See paleontologists unearthing barrel-bodied rhinos, sabre-toothed deer and three species of camels. Licensed and Insured through the state of Nebraska. But any other time of the year, youll find its cool, spring-fed waters empty and idyllic. Cabins at Lord Ranch face the gently undulating Sandhills; kitchenettes and grills make stays self-sufficient. more information on current conditions Visit our keyboard shortcuts docs for details. Sandhill cranes, and even rare whooping cranes, also make occasional appearances. This will help streamline getting on the river and pickup times. Niobrara River Family-Owned Nebraskan Company Offering Niobrara River Water Activities, The shuttle will leave at 11:45am from Brewer Bridge for shuttle upstream to Berry Bridge. With encouragement from the owner of a Kansas City, Missouri, creperie, youll perfect these delicate pancakes in no time. 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. After a brief stop at the waterfall you will continue for about 2 more hours to your final destination at Brewer Bridge. Diverse ecosystems and plant communities are present within Niobrara River Valley, a site noted for the habitation of plants that thrive outside of their normal geographic limits. Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge is the place to see the Old West's shaggy mascot; about 350 bison live there. *$10 per vessel charge will be added to haul your equipment*. 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. We would love to help you set up your trip down the Niobrara River. They are available at the park office. If you are staying on the river we can shuttle you from your camp location or site. To inspire people getting out and exploring the Niobrara National Scenic River complete the Niobrara River Challenge! The Outlaw Scenic Byway, or Nebraska State Highway 12, passes right through the southern edge of Niobrara State Park, which is located just two miles west of the town of Niobrara. Shuttles are available to Fort Niobrara from one of several local outfitters. Explore the scenery, sandbars, and wildlife of the beautiful mouth of Niobrara River by Niobrara, Nebraska. Ferrires-en-Gtinais ( French pronunciation: [fj tin]; literally "Ferrires in Gtinais ") is a commune in the Loiret department in north-central France. Our Water Adventures is a combination of floating, walking, and exploring. Backpack West Virginia's Cranberry Wilderness, Garden of the Gods Illinois to Lusk Creek Canyon, Want To Hike In Middle-Earth? We used the shuttle service and the gentleman that was driving was very pleasant and knowledgeable about the river. Thanks, Diane. To avoid the larger groups of people we suggest that you join us during the weekdays. 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. Sales Tax is included in your price. We did see an eagle and least tern on our trip. At that point there was enough water to tube. . Must have park sticker to park a Smith Falls State Park. Kids activities are also hosted at the center. Definitely a highlight of my vacation. Come midweek to avoid summer's weekend canoe traffic. For this do-it-yourself spring wreath, we bundled inexpensive paper-mache eggs in fuzzy, vibrant yarn. Tips to grow your RV rental business. The majority of the visitors at Niobrara National Scenic River come there to float on the river either by canoe, kayak, tube, or raft. Create a personalized feed and bookmark your favorites. The channel races through an easy class 2 rapid. Whether you're looking for a relaxing tubing adventure, an exciting canoe or kayak trip, we've got you covered. Most trips start from Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge Canoe Launch Site. Our services include shuttle service and your choice of vessel - Canoe, Kayak, and of course our most popular the giant float Tubes. Volunteers are an important part of the National Park Service mission! Starting your trip at Cornell (Fort Niobrara Wildlife Refuge launch site) , Berry Bridge or Smith Falls and ending at Berry Bridge, Smith Falls or Brewer Bridge. Must have park sticker to park a Smith Falls State Park. Little Outlaw was so accommodating for our last minute plans and made everything fun and easy! The Niobrara is a class I river with class II and III rapids. We will then instruct you to Brewer Bridge to leave your vehicle, then take you to your launch point at Berry Bridge. Float Times & Map. Ponderosa pine creep in from the western mountains, mixing with paper birch straight out of a New England calendar. And the fifth is a James Beard finalist chef. Also is the water flowing fast, where we are due to flooding rivers are high and moving fast. Parking fee and landing fees for Berry Bridge can be paid at the iron box. It is rare but it may happen. Wear bug spray/sunscreen. Estimated finish time is 4:00 pm at Brewer Bridge, Tank set up with camp chair seating and lifejacket, This trip is suitable for beginners, however we do need to make sure at least one person is willing to get out and help tow the craft to shore at the finish site. THEY ARE Available AT THE Park OFFICE. We're sorry that the trip did not go well for you. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Both Diane and Calvin are so friendly and helpful in giving directions to you prior to the trip on the rivers(Verdigre and Niobrara) to make it a great day for you. 11 Extraordinary Outdoor Travel Experiences to Try This Year. As a result, the park is a popular destination for these water-related recreational activities. This prairie river, designated under the US National Wild & Scenic Rivers System, is indeed extraordinary. 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! 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. The parks campground is accessible by RVs and trailers, but no RV facilities or campsites are available. With your trip starting at Cornell (Fort Niobrara Wildlife Refuge launch site) and ending at Smith Falls or Brewer Bridge on day one. A few hundred yards into a juniper-filled sandstone canyon, youll reach the 40-foot-high falls. Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! The Niobrara River ( (Niobrara National Scenic River) is unique with it's beauty and features 6 different ecosystems, along with waterfalls and wildlife like elk, turkey, deer, mink, and lots of birds. We will use little Outlaw again. We've been going through these guys every summer for the past seven years for tubes, and their service is fantastic. Our prices include the Shuttle Bus ride along with the Stock Tank float. Brewers Canoers & Tubers is a local family owned business established in 1984. 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. Dryland Aquatics41115 Sparks Rd, Sparks, NE 69220US, Tubing, Canoeing and Kayaking the Niobrara River with Dryland Aquatics. We did address you when you arrived and gave you the option to wait for your original scheduled time or to wait at the end of your trip for your shuttle back. As you visit this park, you should begin your exploration at the Visitor Center where youll see exhibits and films about the park, as well as rangers that you can ask questions about Niobrara. Rates are per person for Tubes. The park is located 76 miles south of Interstate 90. We have two main shuttle options for our tubing trips: Staying close to the Niobrara? Guided walks and programs that tell stories about the park are offered by rangers at some of these areas too. Many of our summer visitors come to float the river for the day. Tubed last week in July '14 and the Verdegris river level is low so there was more walking that hoped. The Visitor Center at Niobrara National Scenic River is a great place to visit for its exhibits which provide information about Niobrara. This year there would have been enough water but I would be concerned about the Niobrara being a little too fast for children. For many Midwesterners, holiday feasting kicks off with a relish tray. COVID-19 UPDATE: We are looking forward to providing you with a socially-distanced outdoor adventure during this challenging time! Call us at 1-800-337-3119 to make a reservation. We had to walk about an hour or more to where the creek flows into the Niobrara River. If you'd like to set up or inquire about a "group booking" call us at 402-376-2046. We did very little walking. Paddlers on the Niobrara . If you want a fun group adventure on Niobrara look no further! Fishing opportunities are also abundant in the river and its tributaries. Guided Raft Trips. (Though youll want to portage Rocky Ford, a boulder-choked five-foot drop, coming up on the left.) SIMPLE RESERVATIONS - our online system handles individual and group reservations. It was built at a strategic crossing of the Loire river. With trips ending at Rock Barn on both days. There, you will leave your car and we will shuttle you up to Berry Bridge, your launch point. Take this opportunity to enjoy the amazing scenery surrounding Nebraskas scenic Niobrara River. Pets are allowed. NO HIDDEN FEES. Weekends usually have a large amount of visitors enjoying the water. At 70 feet, the icy shower of Smith Falls (east of Valentine) is the state's tallest. River levels change daily. Such breaks may reward you with a colorful sighting: Waterfowl and shorebirds, including rare piping plovers and interior least terns, nest on the many sandbars. We regret to hear that the river missed the mark with your experience. Is there lots of walking involved or just get in tube and float? The Niobrara runs east-west through the prairies in an ecological transition zone rich with crossover species.