5.5 Hour Niobrara River Kayak and Canoe Trip
On this trip you'll spend a day experiencing an incredible stretch of the Niobrara River, from Ft. Niobrara Refuge to Penbrook Landing. 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. Further downstream you will get a chance to stop at Smith falls waterfall, the tallest in Nebraska! Near the conclusion of your trip you can experience the Conner's Rapids. This trip is a great way to spend the day.
Trip Details
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Price
Solo kayak $69 | Includes morning shuttle bus
2 Person Canoe $129 | Includes morning shuttle bus
Tandem Kayak $139| Includes morning shuttle bus
- Season Mid-April to Mid-September
- Check-in Time 50 Minutes Prior to Trip Departure
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Bus Departure Time
Trip Departure Times Vary Depending on Season:
Peak Season (June 7th - August 11th):
For trips to Penbrook Landing, shuttle departure time is 9:30 am For trips to Brewer Bridge, shuttle departure time is 9:45 am Early Season (May 10th - June 6th) & Later Season (Starting August 12th):
For trips to Penbrook Landing, shuttle departure time is 10:15 am.
For trips to Brewer Bridge, shuttle departure time is 10:30 am. - Approximate Finish Time 3:30pm Peak Season / 4:15pm Seasonal
- Meeting Point 1005 East Highway 20, Valentine, NE, 69201
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River Coverage
From Ft. Niobrara to Penbrook Landing
Click here to see map
- Included Canoe or Kayak • Paddle • Life Jacket • Shuttle
- Not Included Taxes • Gratuities • $5Per Person Ft. Niobrara Refuge Permit
- Difficulty Level Given the Length of This Trip, it is Not Suitable for Beginners
- Minimum Age Parental Discretion Applies
- Please Bring Sunscreen • Insect Repellent • Hat • Water
- Please Wear Shoes Suitable for Wading (not flip flops)
What to Expect
Expect a peaceful paddle through one of Nebraska’s most beautiful spots. You can choose between a tandem kayak/canoe or a solo kayak to take in the beauty of the Niobrara River, a Top 10 Canoeing River in the United States.
Nature & Wildlife
Relax as the spring-fed, slow moving river leads you past the pine covered hills, steep cliff banks and waterfalls. Throughout the first section of your trip, from Ft Niobrara to Berry Bridge you’ll be in the peaceful US Fish & Wildlife Ft. Niobrara Wildlife Refuge, so keep your eyes out for river otters, minks, herons, bald eagles and other exciting bird species!
US Fish & Wildlife Ft. Niobrara Wildlife Refuge
Your trip will pass through this peaceful wildlife refuge. A $5 fee per person is required to access the US Fish & Wildlife Refuge. You will be required to have a wristband permit visible at all times. These permits will be available at our office when you check in and will be included as a charge in your billing. Please also be aware that no alcohol, water pistols or radios are permitted throughout the first part of this trip. Once you reach Berry Bridge you’ll be out of the Wildlife Refuge so you can enjoy a cool beverage after this point. There is a small concession stand at Berry Bridge near the river where you can pick up some drinks or snacks.
Good to Know
- Each member of your group will be required to sign a waiver before embarking on the kayak/canoe trip. Parents are asked to sign these on behalf of their children under 18.
- Before you set off on your adventure, we’ll give you a quick safety briefing to ensure you get the most from your trip down the Niobrara River.
- With an average depth of 18-24 inches & current speed of 3-7 mph, trips are calm and relaxing.
- We provide life jackets for all trips which must be worn at all times by those under 12.