Snake River Falls
Ann White Dieckgrafe
Snake River Falls is a dramatic waterfall that flows into a deep canyon. It is open year-round from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. There are many scenic trails around Snake River Falls that are great for exploring and seeing the falls from different viewpoints. The location for the falls is around 23 miles to the southwest of Valentine. There is no address to this location, so just use GPS, it took us right to it.
Fort Falls
chaimann / Flickr
Fort Falls is situated in the beautiful Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge, which is located in Valentine. Fort Falls offers a tranquil experience that is great for all levels of hikers. You will follow a path with a bridge and stairs that lead you down into the River Valley; this is where you will experience Fort Falls and all the natural beauty surrounding the cascades. Depending on the season, the trail can be icy and slippery, so take care. There are benches placed throughout the trail for those who need to sit down and relax along the way. The hike is less than one mile long. The Lower Trailhead is located at the Bur Oak Picnic and Parking Area on the Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge.
Smith Falls
Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
Smith Falls is located in the charming Smith Falls State Park and the falls are known to be the highest waterfall in all of Nebraska. Smith Falls is a popular place to enjoy during the summer months when many people come to kayak, tube, boat, and camp for a few days. Smith Falls was named after Frederic Smith; he was the first person who filed the smallholding patent on the property surrounding the falls. These falls are great for taking pictures and enjoying a picnic at one of the picnic tables in the park. If you are adventurous, try kayaking while visiting Smith Falls. Smith Falls is located at Smith Falls State Park at 90165 Smith Falls Rd. in Valentine, Nebraska.
Stair Step Falls
John Coffey
Stair Step Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Nebraska. It is located along the Niobrara River and is a part of the Nature Conservancy. Floating or kayaking down the is the best way to reach Stair Step Falls, and will grant you the best views. If you are floating down the river, make sure to use caution and pack a waterproof camera. Since Stair Step Falls is private property, you will have to treat this place with respect and be careful when entering the area. Stair Step Falls is located at 42269 Morel Road, in Johnstown, Nebraska.
Little Cedar Falls
for illustrative purposes
Little Cedar Falls is located in Sparks, which is situated in Cherry County, Nebraska. The falls flow from Brewer Bridge Creek and the height of the falls is 10 feet. Little Cedar Falls is off the beaten path but is a romantic place to visit, as not too many people venture out this way. Waterfalls in Nebraska are different than other waterfalls located throughout the states because Nebraska is flat, therefore the waterfalls are more cherished and considerably smaller. Located near Valentine Nebraska, I suggest using GPS to find this one, as I can’t find an address.