The Nebraska Hike That Leads To The Most Unforgettable Destination
By Catherine Armstrong|Published July 10, 2018
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Catherine Armstrong
Author
Writer, editor and researcher with a passion for exploring new places. Catherine loves local bookstores, independent films, and spending time with her family, including Gus the golden retriever, who is a very good boy.
Long before white settlers came to the land that is now Nebraska, native people lived and explored here. Indian Cave State Park is one place where you can see evidence of those first residents, and it’s a beautiful park that has plenty to offer, including a trail system that’s surrounded by natural beauty.
Indian Cave State Park is one of Nebraska's true gems. Nestled on the banks of the Missouri River, it's located just eight miles from Shubert, and it features a shallow cave that once served as shelter to Native Americans thousands of years ago.
...they're all beautiful! The Rockbluff Run, Hardwood, and Indian Cave Trails all take you through shady, forested areas, along pleasant paths. Some sections may be steep, so make sure you're wearing sturdy hiking shoes, and bring along some water.
Enjoy some spectacular views of the Missouri River along the way. Lewis and Clark passed through this area around 1804, and they surely must have been impressed by the view.
Wildflowers, butterflies, and birds are just a few of the sights you'll want to soak in along the trails. The park encompasses 3,052 acres, and honestly, every inch of it is stunning.
The trail leading directly to the cave is made up of a long boardwalk with several short staircases. There's information about what to expect at the bottom of the staircase.
You can see why this lush little oasis would have been a welcome shelter for Native Americans. While the cave is very shallow, it is well-sheltered from the elements. Watch for the interpretive signage along the way that will point you to some of the features of this spot.
Some of the petroglyphs and carvings in the cave likely date back several thousand years, but not much is known about the people who lived here, or how many different tribes may have inhabited the area over time.
Before the area became a state park and the boardwalk was built, visitors were able to get close up to the soft, sandstone overhangs and carve their own initials and names into the rock, obscuring some of the ancient carvings. You may have to look closely to see the native carvings amongst those of more recent visitors.
After you've explored all the cave has to offer, you'll want to step out to the lookout area for another picturesque view of the valley below. Here, you'll find some more information about the Lewis and Clark expedition and the Missouri River.
While you'll definitely enjoy Indian Cave State Park as a day trip, you might want to consider spending the night! The park offers both RV and primitive camping sites, which include picnic tables, fire pits, restrooms, hot showers, and hookups.
For more information about Indian Cave State Park, visit its website. Get a closer look at the trails in the park on this trail map. Have you visited this pretty park? If so, we’d love to read about your trip and see your photos in the comments!
