When you think of Dismal River, you probably picture golfing or canoeing. This river is more than 70 miles long and winds its way through the Cornhusker State. And while it is certainly beautiful with various activities nearby to enjoy, there is another reason to visit this short, wild river in the Sandhill — it has several fun and mysterious natural springs known as boiling sand springs in Nebraska.
These natural springs in Nebraska aren't boiling temperature-wise; rather, the term refers to the water bubbling up through the sand and into the river from the Ogallala Aquifer below.
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The springs are up to 30 feet in diameter and feature a layer of clear spring water above a layer of sand. This layer of sand looks like the bottom of the river, but the bottom is actually some 100-140 feet below at the bottom of the spring. The result is a fun trick of nature that acts a bit like reverse quicksand. Due to the water constantly pushing up through the sand, it is impossible to sink in the boiling spring spots.
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The videos below show people playing with the unusual spots in the river. When one of them tries to push an oar down into the water, the spring pushes it right back up. If you decide to go seek out one of these springs, keep in mind that most of the land surrounding the Dismal River is privately owned ranch land. If you happen to be on a canoe or kayak trip down the river, see if you can locate one of these spots. It's a fun break that you won't soon forget.
Do you know of a specific place where you can find one of the Dismal River boiling springs in Nebraska? Have you ever visited one? Let us (and other readers) know in the comments!
If you are searching for even more incredible places outdoors to spend your time, how about a waterfall? Check out these five unbelievable Nebraska waterfalls that are sure to take your breath away.
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