Take An Easy Out-And-Back Trail To Enter Another World At Smith Falls State Park In Nebraska
Hiking is one of those low-cost, low-commitment activities that just about anyone can enjoy. In Nebraska, you’ve got your pick of countless miles of trails that appeal to all ages and skill levels. One of the most popular is the short 1.1-mile out-and-back trail that leads to the state’s tallest waterfall.
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Smith Falls State Park was created in 1992, making it Nebraska's youngest state park. It's located near Valentine in one of the wildest, most beautiful parts of the state.
It's not just the waterfall that will impress you here - the walk from the car to the falls is a special one. You'll pass through a field (which is a marvelous shade of deep green in the summer) and cross the Niobrara River on a historic bridge.
After that, you'll come to a wooden walkway that will lead you right to Smith Falls. Take your time and enjoy the scenery as you walk along. This area has been left to grow in a natural state and contains some of the most intricate ecosystems in Nebraska.
The hike is mostly level and short enough for even the littlest legs to handle. As you near the end of the trail, you'll hear the water before you see it. It's a relaxing sound that we don't get to hear terribly often in the Cornhusker State, and it's always nice to be still for a moment and just listen.
It's almost impossible not to let out a little gasp when you see the falls. The water cascades down 65 feet, making this the tallest waterfall in the state. It's a magnificent sight.
The best part is that you can visit the falls absolutely free. The land is leased from the Krzyzanowski family, who have promised that the waterfall will always be free to visit.
Please note that while the trail to the waterfall is wheelchair accessible, you’ll need to descend a case of wooden stairs if you want to get to the base of the waterfall.
Have you ever visited this majestic place and taken the short and easy hike to the falls? Tell us about your experiences in the comments!
As a lifelong Nebraskan, Delana loves discovering the many hidden treasures of her state. She has worked as a writer and editor since 2007. Delana's work has been featured on more than a dozen websites and in Nebraska Life Magazine.
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