Follow This Abandoned Railroad Trail For One Of The Most Unique Hikes In Nebraska

Abandoned railroad corridors all over the state have been transformed into hiking/biking trails that allow visitors to experience the most beautiful parts of Nebraska. This particular trail has a fascinating history that predates even the railroad. Follow along on one of the best hikes in Nebraska to discover this beautiful part of our nature and history!

Chief Standing Bear Trail is a walking/hiking/biking trail that stretches between Beatrice and the Nebraska/Kansas border.

The 23-mile trail roughly follows the route that the Ponca people were forced to walk in 1877 from their homeland in Nebraska to a "resettlement" area in Oklahoma.

The trail crosses 16 bridges, originally built by Union Pacific when this path was a railroad route.

Motorized vehicles of any kind are prohibited on the trail, making this a peaceful and relaxing journey.

Trailheads in Beatrice, Holmesville, Blue Springs, and Barneston allow travelers to hop on where it's convenient for them.

The route runs up alongside the Big Blue River for much of the way.

This spectacular Blue Valley scenery is one of the most intriguing parts of this journey.

There's always some kind of wildlife present. Keep your eyes peeled for companions like this as you're traveling the trail!

The lovely walk is available year-round, and since it's not plowed in the winter, you can even use the trail for cross-country skiing when it snows.

The sights along this lovely trail are unlike any other in the state. This is one of the prettiest and most historically significant hikes Nebraska has to offer, and one that everyone should visit at least once. To learn more about this amazing trail in Nebraska, visit its official website.

What would you call the best hikes in Nebraska? If you could make a list, what would be on it? Tell us your thoughts in the comments.