Best Waterfalls in Nebraska: 9 Local Favorites & Hidden Gems

Here at Only In Your State, we constantly find new places to add to our bucket lists. But, if you are like us, there is one type of destination we will always chase—waterfalls. While Nebraska may not be known for its breathtaking cascades, it doesn’t mean you will not find beautiful and inspiring falls around the state. Below are nine of the best waterfalls in Nebraska. The question is... which Nebraska waterfalls will you chase first?

Ready to explore more waterfalls beyond the state border? From jaw-dropping cascades to swimmable emerald ponds, there are countless magnificent waterfalls found across the United States to explore.

Tallest and Most Popular Waterfall In Nebraska

Nebraska may not be home to majestic mountains and inspiring peaks, but that doesn’t mean you won’t find tall waterfalls in the state. In fact, the highest waterfall in Nebraska is more than 60 feet tall. The largest waterfall in Nebraska certainly deserves a spot on your bucket list.

1. Smith Falls, Valentine

• Location: Smith Falls State Park near Valentine, Nebraska
• Popularity: Very popular
• Need To Know: These falls are home to several ice age species and are beautiful during the winter months.

Smith Falls State Park is one of the best state parks in Nebraska. It is home to incredible hiking, fishing, and camping opportunities. It is also home to Smith Falls, the tallest waterfall in Nebraska. These impressive falls measure 63 feet high and are beautiful any time of the year. To reach the falls, you will follow a footbridge across the river. The view is well worth the short walk as the Smith Falls Trail is only 1.1 miles.

Best Waterfall Hikes In Nebraska

There is nothing like lacing up your hiking boots and heading out on a beautiful afternoon hike. Whether you hit a nature trail or a more challenging waterfall hike, several trailheads take you to gorgeous waterfalls in Nebraska. The following are just a few of our favorites.

2. Snake River Falls, near Valentine

• Location: Near Valentine, Nebraska
• Popularity: Popular
• Need To Know: This waterfall is on private property but you can pay the $1 fee to access the trail and enjoy the view.

Snake River Falls is one of the more impressive waterfalls in Nebraska. Located in Valentine, the falls plunge approximately 54 feet and are the largest in the state by volume. However, these falls are also among the most difficult to see. In fact, the trail down the canyon to the base of the falls is closed, so the only way to see it is via a trail on either side of the Snake Falls Sportsman’s Club building. You must pay an admission fee of $1 to access the trail, which can be placed in a pay box in front of the Sportman's Club.

3. Fort Falls, Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge, Valentine

• Location: Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge, Valentine
• Popularity: Popular
• Need To Know: There are approximately 40 metal stairs you must climb on this trail, and they can become slick, so exercise caution.

Lace up your hiking boots because you will not want to miss Fort Falls. Located within the Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge, a short, one-mile trail takes you to these falls. The hike is family-friendly and features a bridge and metal staircase. The falls are nearly 45 feet tall, making them one of the tallest waterfalls in Nebraska.

4. Stone Creek Falls, Platte River State Park, Louisville

• Location: Platte River State Park, Louisville
• Popularity: Popular
• Need To Know: You must pay a daily vehicle entry fee of $7 or $35 for an annual permit.

Located in the beautiful Platte River State Park and just a short 30-minute drive from Omaha, Stone Creek Falls is one of the most photographed waterfalls in Nebraska, and it’s easy to see why. These minor falls cascade over stone cliffs, creating a beautiful scene. The hike to reach the falls is approximately 0.5 miles, perfect for beginner hikers and young kids.

Best Waterfalls Near Valentine, Nebraska

If you are considering a road trip or you want a short day trip to view waterfalls in Nebraska, there is no better place than Valentine. This area is where you will find incredible falls—some named and others unnamed. Below are just a few of the best waterfalls with names near Valentine, Nebraska.

5. Berry Falls

• Location: Near Valentine in Cherry County
• Popularity: Hidden gem
• Need To Know: Berry Falls can only be viewed while floating down the river or on Berry Ridge Road.

The beautiful Berry Falls is located along the banks of the Niobrara National Scenic River. Cascading approximately 8 feet, these falls are beautiful and can be seen from Berry Ridge Road on the river's south bank or on a float trip down the river. Remember that these falls are located on private land, so climbing on the falls is prohibited. However, you can admire their beauty from a distance.

6. Tyler Falls

• Location: Near Valentine in Cherry County
• Popularity: Not too popular
• Need To Know: If you choose to fish near these falls, check state regulations to ensure fishing is open to the public.

Tyler Falls is another gorgeous waterfall located inside the Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge, and it can be accessed via the Wilderness Access Trail. It is near the beautiful Fort Falls, which is perfect if you want to view both falls in a single day. While the waterfall is certainly worth admiring, many people come to these falls to try their hand at fishing.

7. Stairstep Falls

• Location: Along the Niobrara National Scenic River
• Popularity: Not very popular
• Need To Know: These falls can only be viewed by floating or kayaking down the Niobrara River.

Stairstep Falls is part of the Nature Conservancy and is another gorgeous waterfall along the Niobrara River. The best way to view these falls is while floating or paddling down the river. However, once you reach the falls, be respectful as the falls are on private property. Do not climb on or damage the falls in any way.

8. Arrowhead Falls

• Location: Along the Niobrara National Scenic River
• Popularity: Not busy
• Need To Know: This waterfall can be difficult to find and is unmarked.

Arrowhead Falls is a hidden gem in the Niobrara National Scenic River. It is unmarked but absolutely inspiring if you know where to look. While we love Arrowhead Falls in the summer when it is surrounded by greenery, there is nothing quite like it in the autumn when it is tucked away in the vibrant fall foliage. It’s breathtaking.

9. Cross Falls

• Location: Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge
• Popularity: Little known
• Need To Know: This is another unmarked waterfall that can be difficult to find.

Cross Falls is another unmarked waterfall that is located within the Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge along a short spring branch of the Niobrara River. Because of its remote location, this waterfall can be difficult to access and see in person. However, if you come across Cross Falls, it is inspiring and beautiful—mainly when it is boldly flowing. As you make your way to the falls, you’ll trek through gorgeous natural areas and may even spot some wildlife as well.

What is your favorite waterfall in the Cornhusker State? What do you consider the best waterfalls in Nebraska? Are there natural wonders in Nebraska that amaze you? If you find yourself searching for and visiting waterfalls in Nebraska and have a favorite you'd like us to check out, send us a note through our nomination page. We love checking out the many falls around our beautiful state.