Niobrara River and Ft. Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge

When you enter Ft. Niobrara NWR, you almost immediately cross the Niobrara River and see this small man made waterfall


After driving through the refuge you again cross the Niobrara River and you can see one of the few natural waterfalls, Berry Falls. Canoing is a very popular activity.


Birds and critters seen on the refuge today included this Upland Sandpiper


This Common nighthawk tolerated my sitting and watching him and the clicking of my camera for quite awhile. He finally voiced his disapproval by squawking loudly. I captured him with his mouth wide open


Seems like the Prairie dogs are almost always willing to pose


There are about 350 Bison on the refuge. They weigh about 2,000 pounds. This was one big boy!

First Day On The Road

I had intended to get to Valentine (the first stop on this trip) via Broken Bow and Highway 83. Because of the flooding, collapsed bridges, and roads being out, I took a somewhat roundabout way. Compliments of the Nebraska Highway Conditions site, I went further west and took Highway 97 north from North Platte. Nary a problem was encountered. Every river and lake along the way was very full, but no water on the road.

A few photos from todays trip

Finally heading into the Nebraska Sandhills


I mostly had the road to myself


The Dismal River Outfitters have quite a spread


The Loup River was full, but not overflowing


Most ranches have signs. Some ranchers seem to have a sense of humor


No post depicting the Sandhills would be complete without a picture of cattle


Or horses