| Sandhills Kicks Tour |
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This path cuts through north-central Nebraska from Valentine, giving you the perfect view of the subtle beauty of the Sandhills. Within this unique ecosystem, plenty of charming towns and natural wonders await you. Scenery
Waterfalls of the Niobrara River , a hand-planted forest, dramatic sandhills, winding rivers, the serene beauty of Merritt Reservoir. History Welcome to cowboy country! Enjoy life on the range at the Sandhills Spirit of the West near Nenzel. Board a rustic wagon ride, and learn about the area’s history, settlement, and ranching ways from local cowboys and ranchers. Explore downtown Bassett, where you’ll find a Philips 66 gas station restored to its 1920s glory days as well as an old-fashioned malt shop. While away the time riding in a Conestoga wagon to view a herd of nearly 1,000 bison at the Hutchinson Buffalo Ranch. Family Fun Your whole family will love experiencing natural Nebraska. From exciting wildlife to breathtaking scenery, this route simply can’t be beat. Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge near Valentine offers canoeing and tubing opportunities, as well as a chance to view bison, deer, elk, and prairie dogs. The 90,000-acre Nebraska National Forest near Halsey offers beautiful trails and picnic facilities for your family outing. At the Valentine National Wildlife Refuge, you’ll discover more than 240 species of birds. Route directions: Start in Valentine 15 miles (:20) east on NE-12 to Smith Falls State Park 11 miles (:15) west on NE-12 to Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge 46 miles (1:00) east on US-20 to Ainsworth 10 miles (:15) east on US-20 to Long Pine 10 miles (:15) east on US-20 to Bassett 29 miles (:40) south on US-183 to Rose 61 miles (1:30) south on US-183, west on NE-91 to Brewster 26 miles (:35) west on NE-91 and NE-2 to Halsey 17 miles (:25) west on NE-2 to Thedford 41 miles (:45) north on US-83 to the Valentine National Wildlife Refuge 20 miles (:25) north on US-83 to the Bryan Bridge scenic overlook 5 miles (:05) north on US-83 to Valentine |
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