They say that the sky goes all the way to the ground here in Nebraska, and nowhere is that more true than in our spectacular prairie land. Far from the boring seas of grasses most people picture when they think of prairies, these unique ecosystems contain multitudes of plant, insect, and animal life. You’ve just got to slow down and take the time to appreciate the simple beauty of Gjerloff Prairie. Curious to learn more? Here’s more on why this special place is perfect for a springtime getaway in Nebraska:

The gorgeous Gjerloff Prairie is located in Hamilton County between the Platte River and the little town of Marquette.
Google Maps
The land was purchased from a local farming family with a grant from the Nebraska Environmental Trust.
Prairie Plains Resource Institute/Facebook
The land formerly belonged to Mert and Gwen Griffith and was initially named Griffith Prairie.
Its Platte River-adjacent location and gently rolling loess hills landscape have made it one of Nebraska's most beautiful, peaceful places to take a walk in nature.
Prairie Plains Resource Institute
If you visit in the spring and summer, you'll be rewarded with an experience that stimulates all of the senses.
Prairie Plains Resource Institute
The trails are open all year, though, and there are different things to love about every season on this prairie.

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Wildflowers can be found throughout the prairie. As you walk the mowed path, you'll see little clusters of these colorful beauties poking up among the tall grasses.
Prairie Plains Resource Institute/Facebook
Gjerloff Prairie is a popular place for field trips thanks to its many opportunities to observe a variety of plants and animal life.
Prairie Plains Resource Institute/Facebook
But you don't have to be a student to appreciate the spectacular sights and sounds of this magical destination.
Prairie Plains Resource Institute/Facebook
The wind whooshing through the grasses and around the hills, the bees and butterflies flitting around, and the fresh aroma of the plants thriving here will make you want to return as soon as you leave.
The prairie is the site of organized, guided hikes throughout the year. A local favorite is the springtime wildflower hike that leads to some colorful blooms and a new understanding of prairie ecology.
Prairie Plains Resource Institute/Facebook
If you want to learn even more, stop by the Whitney Education Center located in a historic barn. That's where you'll find plentiful information about the prairie and the work of the Prairie Plains Resource Institute. You can even rent the facility for events and classes.
Prairie Plains Resource Institute/Facebook

Get a better view of the vast beauty of this special place in this aerial video of Gjerloff Prairie.

To learn more about Gjerloff Prairie and the other prairie preserves in Nebraska, visit the Prairie Plains Institute online. You can also keep up with current and upcoming events at the preserves on the Institute’s Facebook page. Have you ever visited this beautiful natural landscape in Nebraska? What did you think? Feel free to share your thoughts with us in the comments below — we would love to hear from you!

While you’re in the area, stop by the nearby Central City and enjoy everything the town has to offer:

You’ll Never Run Out Of Things To Do In This Small Nebraska Town

 

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More to Explore

Natural Wonders In Nebraska

Beth C. | February 29, 2024

What are some of the most beautiful natural attractions in Nebraska?

In our humble opinion, Nebraska is criminally underrated when it comes to remarkable natural beauty. For proof of this, look no further than the following list of the most beautiful natural attractions in Nebraska:

  • Wauneta's Little Grand Canyon
  • Chadron State Park's Canyon
  • Indian Cave
  • Robbers Cave
  • Stone Creek Falls
  • Smith Falls
  • Snake River Falls
  • Windlass Hill
  • Blackbird Scenic Overlook
  • Scotts Bluff National Monument
  • Toadstool Geologic Park
  • Chimney Rock
  • Agate Fossil Beds National Monument
  • Sandhills
  • Fontenelle Forest

 

Curious to learn more about these stunning sites? We've outlined a list of the most beautiful natural wonders in Nebraska that seem to defy explanation.

What are some of the best hiking trails in Nebraska?

There's a lot to love about Nebraska's great outdoors, especially if you're an avid hiker. Below you'll find our recommendations for some of the top-rated hiking trails in Nebraska:

 

Have you heard of any of the trails above? If not, you can find out more by checking out our ultimate guide to the best hikes in Nebraska. There's something for everyone on this list!

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Gjerloff Prairie, 2206 N M Rd, Marquette, NE 68854, USA