Spend the day canoeing down the Niobrara River on this beautiful and rewarding 5.5 hour trip from Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge to Penbrook Landing. This full-day adventure covers one of the most iconic sections of the Niobrara National Scenic River, offering natural beauty, wildlife, and light rapids, ideal for those seeking a bit more time to explore.
You’ll begin your journey in the calm wilderness of the Niobrara Wildlife Refuge, where you might spot bald eagles, herons, and river otters. About halfway through, take a break at Smith Falls State Park, home to the tallest waterfall in Nebraska, before continuing past Berry Bridge and navigating a stretch of gentle Class I rapids—great for intermediate paddlers or adventurous beginners.
You can choose from a solo kayak, tandem kayak, or 2-person canoe. This trip offers a peaceful, fun way to enjoy the region’s unique landscape and waterfalls. With a convenient shuttle and gear included, this is one of the best canoe trips in Nebraska and a top pick for those looking for things to do around Valentine, NE.
Mid-April to mid-October (and by reservation only during the off season)
1 hour prior to trip departure
10:00 am at Penbrook Landing
5:00 pm
From Ft. Niobrara to Penbrook Landing
(Click on the image to enlarge in a new tab)
Given the length of this trip, it is not suitable for beginners
Parental discretion applies
Shoes suitable for wading (not flip flops)
As you paddle down the Niobrara National Scenic River, you’ll be surrounded by a wide range of habitats that make this area stunningly unique. The river winds through beautiful cliffs, forests, and grassy meadows that receive nourishment by spring-fed streams.
This stretch of river flows through the Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge, offering a chance to encounter a diverse mix of native species. Kayaking the Niobrara River is an ideal way to spot local wildlife.
Be sure to keep an eye out for:
As you paddle down the river, there’s a new chance to connect with the sights and sounds of this vibrant ecosystem.
Your trip begins in the peaceful Fort Niobrara Wildlife Refuge, a protected area managed by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. A $5 entry fee per person is required to paddle through this portion of the river. Wristband permits must be worn visibly 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 note that alcohol, water pistols or radios are NOT permitted while you’re within the refuge boundaries. Once you reach Berry Bridge, you’ll exit the wildlife area and may enjoy a cool beverage if you wish. There is a small concession stand near the river at Berry Bridge where you can grab some drinks or snacks before continuing your float.
It is important to us that you have a smooth and enjoyable experience on the river. Here are a few important things to keep in mind before your trip:
With the right preparation, your time on the Niobrara River will be safe, relaxing, and enjoyable.
They were easy to work with, answered all of my questions, and welcomed our group of 17 people. We chose not to utilize their shuttler option because we stayed at the Berry Bridge Campground which is where the launch site is located. We drove three vehicles to the ending point, left two vehicles there, and drove one back to the campground. We then walked down to the launch site and got into the water! We will be making this a yearly event.
These guys will do you right. Great communicators and better hosts. We optioned for the 5 hour trip in Kayaks. We managed to enjoy the river for 7 hours. Great fun! You will not be disappointed!
Friendly place, great prices and great service. Highly recommend for camping or going down the river. You won’t be disappointed.
We had a wonderful time. We rented yep canoes and received instructions and encouragements.
We dropped out vehicle at the end of our trip and were then given a ride to the starting point. Absolutely gorgeous and beautiful trip. Highly recommend!
We’ve rented kayaks at least 4 times over the last 15 years from Little Outlaw and always had a fantastic experience. Our last trip was even a fairly large group, and everything went smoothly.
It was easy to find the landing place to park our cars, and Rich was waiting there with a small bus to take us to the launching place. We had no problems with the equipment and the couple of quick instructions he gave us on the kayak (how to adjust the seats and foot rests) were all that was needed.
Our group had a blast and took our time floating downstream, stopping to see all the waterfalls. We took a little longer than expected, but Rich and his wife were very nice about it. If anyone I know ever wanted to kayak the Niobrara I’d definitely recommend Little Outlaw.
