Niobrara Valley Preserve

Niobrara Valley Preserve is a large protected area with pine canyons, grasslands, and a scenic river section that winds through the landscape. The terrain features multiple habitats that visitors can explore along marked trails near the main facilities.

The land was acquired in 1980 by The Nature Conservancy and transformed from cattle ranching into a conservation area. Bison were later reintroduced, returning to the region for the first time in a century.

The preservation of grasslands here depends on grazing animals that shape the land through their natural movements. Visitors can see how bison and cattle work together on pastures, maintaining the ecosystem's health through their presence.

The best way to experience the area is via two marked hiking trails near the visitor center, which offer both shorter and longer loops. Wear sturdy footwear and bring plenty of water for your chosen route.

The area contains six distinct ecological systems in a relatively compact space, making it a rare hub of biodiversity. This diversity allows visitors to experience dramatically different landscapes during a single walk.