Smith Falls

Smith Falls is a waterfall in Cherry County, Nebraska, that drops over a rock face and represents the state's highest cascade. The site sits in the Niobrara River Valley and features a wooden boardwalk system connecting to a main viewing platform.

A settler named Frederic Smith received a land patent for this property in 1896, giving the waterfall its current name. Since then, a local family has maintained the site in partnership with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.

The falls took their name from an early settler and are now maintained by a local family dedicated to preserving this natural site. Visitors experience the waterfall and surrounding landscape in a state that honors both its natural character and human stewardship.

Access is provided by a well-built wooden boardwalk system that suits visitors of various abilities. The platforms offer views of the waterfall and surrounding rocks from different vantage points.

The canyon surrounding the waterfall is home to a rare aspen variety called Smith Aspen that grows only in this location. This plant makes the canyon botanically remarkable for those interested in native vegetation.

Location: Nebraska

Address: Smith Falls, Valentine, NE 69221, USA

GPS coordinates: 42.88789,-100.31585

Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:41