Step Outside - Nebraska WELCOME TO STEP OUTSIDE! Find the best outdoor fun near you! en-us 30 http://45.55.122.59/ Step Outside - Nebraska 144 144 http://45.55.122.59/ https://cdn-step.americantowns.com/img/stepoutside_logo.gif Fri, 22 Nov 2024 12:37:15 -0600 5 Energizing Hikes in Nebraska Hiking is a very healthy and invigorating activity and Nebraska is filled with beautiful hiking options to spend your days. For a glimpse at some of the more challenging hiking trails for intermediate to advanced hikers, here are five energizing hiking spots in Nebraska waiting for you!

The Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area offers miles of beautiful yet rugged trails to hike with spectacular views of the North Platte River Valley. For more advanced hikers, there are some very challenging and steep trails here. 

This is Scotts Bluff’s most famous trail. At 1.6 miles-long in one direction, Saddle Rock Trail is considered to be strenuous and has an elevation change of 435 feet. 

It may not seem like this trail is a huge challenge at 1.34 miles, it can be a rather strenuous trek. Corps of Discovery Trail is named after the Lewis and Clark Expedition who passed through this area in August 1804. This hike is not recommended for novices. The views at the top are outstanding. 

This trail is open to hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders. In 2006, a fire burned the area and according to its website, numerous snags still remain so it’s best to proceed with caution. On windy days, this roughly six-mile loop trail can cause falling hazards. Despite this, the area is magnificently beautiful and makes for an excellent hike. 

Located approximately 30 miles from Lincoln, the Platte River State Park offers plenty of moderate hiking trails. Our recommendation is to head to the one that leads directly to a picturesque waterfall. While you're making your way to the refreshing falls, don’t let the scenic views distract you. On the western side of the park, there are plenty of twists and turns on this trail to keep you on your toes. 

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5 Beautiful Scenic Hikes in Nebraska Nebraska is home to a beautiful blend of rolling countryside hills mixed with bluffs and rivers winding through the state. With the numerous state parks, it isn’t too difficult to find a hiking trail to get out and explore all of these natural sites. To help you narrow down your options, we’ve put together five of truly beautiful scenic hikes to enjoy in Nebraska.

Smith Falls is the highest waterfall in the state of Nebraska and you can reach it by hiking the Smith Falls trail. This scenic route takes you across a historic truss bridge spanning the Niobrara River until you reach the falls. Nearby, you can also hop on the Jim McAllister Nature Trail, a one-mile trail that weaves through the stunning Niobrara River Valley. Six distinct biological systems are combined in this area, which makes for some incredible wildlife watching.

The Toadstool Geological Park is made up of enormous sandstone creations and still bears the tracks of animals and remnants from a river that flowed through the site nearly 30 million years ago. Hiking the one-mile or three-mile trails through this incredible site feels like you’re walking on the rocky white surface of the moon while you discover unusual yet stunning geological formations.

Indian Cave State Park is located on over 3,000 acres of land and is Nebraska’s second-largest state park. For hikers that wish to leave all modern amenities behind, this is your place. This untouched park offers 22 miles of hiking trails with plenty of amazing spots to stop and see birds, animals, and spectacular views of the forest. The best time to visit is in the autumn for spectacular views of the forest’s fall foliage.

Eugene T. Mahoney State Park in Ashland sits along the Platte River and attracts more than one million visitors every year. The 690-acre park offers year-round, family-friendly hiking trails with fantastic views of the river. There is also a two-mile trail that takes you to an observation tower for even more great views. 

Located just outside of Lincoln, Platte River State Park offers hikers scenic routes through the tranquil Stone Creek Falls. The park also features two observation towers with stunning views of the Platte River. Keep in mind, these trails are for hikers who like a bit of a challenge! A significant portion of the trails is uphill.

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5 Best Dirt Motorcycle Trails in Nebraska Thrill seekers will find well-maintained and challenging motocross trails and off-road parks all across Nebraska. With terrain suitable for even the most novice rider, there’s something for everyone in the dirt biking community. Here are the five best dirt biking trails in the state.  

Fiddler Creek is a seriously fun track which features a main and beginners track. This means fun for everyone. Great members make Fiddler Creek one of the top motorcycle trails in the area. 

The Dismal River is over 11 miles of windy and fast sandy trails for all day riding. The wide-open areas makes for long and beautiful rides like no other place. 

The Abbott Sports Complex in Lincoln features three awesome motocross tracks. A main track, vet track, and mini track, as well as trail riding. The main track is a massive over 30-foot wide national style track which provides serious fun for riders. 

If you are ready for the best place to “get your off road fix,” then head to Off Road Ranch in Norfolk. They have a drag strip, motocross/four-wheeler course, and monthly events such as freestyle jumps. This is one of the top places around to ride with friends. 

The Harlan County Lake in Alma offers over nine miles of trails that wind through hills, sand, and grass. The trail is open year-round and well equipped which ensures everyone has a blast riding.

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5 Great Hiking Trails in Nebraska Nebraska is home to numerous top-notch state parks with well-maintained hiking trails and fun activities for all ages. If you’re looking for a fun weekend escape, there are plenty of places in Nebraska where you and your family can be one with nature. Here are 5 excellent hiking trails for families to explore in Nebraska. 

This wetland sanctuary includes some excellent trails around the marsh and family-friendly events such as 2nd Saturdays which offer educational programs geared toward families with children. On the Heron Haven trails, you’ll spot many types of birds, butterflies, and other wildlife creatures and critters.

For a day trip from Omaha or Lincoln, take your family exploring at the Eugene T. Mahoney State Park. In addition to well-maintained walking and bike trails, the park also has an aquatic center, indoor playground, observation tower, and sledding and ice skating activities during the winter months for families to enjoy. Mahoney State Park also offers family-friend facilities for camping near the lake if you want to stay out exploring the trails all weekend.

The Fontanelle Forest has lots of children’s play areas as well as special activities for children planned throughout the year. For example, on Family Sundays the park invites families to come out and discover the forest. There are hiking trails for all ages and abilities so everyone can enjoy the fantastic sights and sounds.

The trails at the Wildlife Safari Park in Ashland cover roughly two miles in a serene setting. Families can hike through the Wolf Woods, or head over to Frog Lake, and witness some incredible wildlife and nature up close and personal. The park is home to elk, deer, bison, and many more animals native to the state.

For a family picnic with incredible views, visit Schramm Park in Louisville and explore the bluffs along the river. Take your family exploring around the trout ponds, aquarium, or the geologic display. The 1.3-mile trail at Schramm Park welcomes hikers of all skill levels so you can enjoy the pleasant sounds and wildlife with the whole family.

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http://45.55.122.59/article/5-great-hiking-trails-in-nebraska http://45.55.122.59/article/5-great-hiking-trails-in-nebraska Fri, 06 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0500
5 Awesome Trail Running Spots in Nebraska If you’re not a runner in Nebraska, it’s time to change that! Nebraska is home to a number of incredible nature trails for a quick or more lengthy run and they all offer unique, beautiful perspectives of the state. If you’re ready to get out into nature, here are five awesome trail running spots in Nebraska.

Located in Wilderness Park, the 6.5-mile Jamaica North Trail winds through the park all the way to Beatrice, Nebraska. As one of the area’s most popular trails, work is underway to expand access to the trail, making it much easier to get to and from other Lincoln area trails. This expansion is a major winner for runners of central Nebraska!

The Chalco Hills Trails make up a series of mulched trails that run through a beautiful forested area perfect for a weekend run. Hop on the trail at any point and along the way you’ll find scenic views of prairie grasses and stunning foliage in the fall. 

While a large portion of the Dannebrog Trail is paved, there is also a very nice wood chipped trail that winds through the historic Hannibal Woods and around the abandoned Union Pacific rail line. 

This 20-mile trail spans from the southeast town of Beatrice to the Nebraska/Kansas state line. Named after a Ponca chief, the Ponca Tribe of Nebraska owns and maintains this trail for visitors to enjoy. If you’re looking for a killer workout combined with stunning scenery, then Chief Standing Bear Trail is the place to go.

The Niobrara State Park encompasses 14 miles of trails that wind through the dunes and along the Niobrara River. The beautiful park is perfect for a run through the forest and to enjoy the many birds and wildlife native to the area. The trails vary in length, difficulty, and surface—ranging from grasslands to chipped limestone to suit all types of runners.

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Best Places to Fish in the Midwest This Fall Walleyes and a variety of salmon are on the autumn menu in the Midwest as anglers have a last chance to fish open water before the winter freeze starts to set in. Fishing for either species can be excellent; how the weather and the water temperatures line up are more critical where salmon are concerned, but the fall run extends well into November.

Walleyes aren’t so picky, and all the traditional waters such as the Mississippi River, Big Saint Germain Lake in Wisconsin, Otter Tail Lake in Minnesota and Great Lakes feeder streams give up tons of  ’eyes in the fall.

One Last Salmon Fling

The big attraction nowadays is king (chinook) salmon that make their fall spawning runs up rivers and creeks. Whether fishing from a small boat or a Great Lakes charter boat, latching on to a 20- or 30-pound king can quickly warm up an otherwise chilly fall day.

Hot Spots To Fish: Michigan’s Grand River, which empties into the eastern side of Michigan, is a prime destination for salmon. Getting Bit Guide Service (616-570-2946, gettingbitguideservice.com) in Grand Rapids is a good starting point. In fact, any port of call along Lake Michigan on either the east or west sides is likely to have plenty of knowledgeable salmon guides or charters. Fishing from jetties or piers – such as the famed McKinley Pier in Milwaukee – is also productive during the fall salmon runs.

In northwestern New York, the Salmon River lives up to its name through mid-October, but the run might linger into November in the Lake Ontario feeder, depending on the weather. Coho and steelheads also are in the mix too.

The Yankee Angler (315-963-2065, yankeeangler.com) in Pulaski, N.Y. keeps tabs on the fishing. In the big waters of Lake Ontario’s southern shore at Rochester, N.Y., give Reel Em In Sportfishing Charters (585-317-5325, reeleminsportfishing.com) a call.

Farther to the northwest, the waters and feeders of Lake Superior near Sault Ste. Marie are teeming with big salmon. One of the benefits here is that you can always slip in to the St. Mary’s River System to get away from those rough autumn nor’ westers. Live To Fish Charters (906-440-7797) can help make it happen.

New York rivers and inshore waters are teeming with big salmon in the fall.

Tackle You’ll Need: Salmon tackle and striped bass tackle (see above) are practically interchangeable. Fish might range from a few pounds to well over 20 pounds, and rods and reels should be in the medium- to-heavy range. A light- to-medium spinning outfit capable of holding a couple of hundred yards of 10- to 14-pound-test monofilament or 30- to 50-pound-test braid should do for most applications, especially when casting lures. Try the Okuma Epixor XT-20 with a matching rod.

Quick Tip: Just to hedge your bets, tie a foot-long section of 2x mono to your streamer hook and add a beadhead Prince nymph or similar pattern to the other end. When salmon are finicky, they might flash at a streamer, but not take it. Sometimes, a smaller mouthful such as a nymph trailer will seal the deal.

 

Best Lures/Bait: For the most part, spawn-run salmon hit spoons, crankbaits or roe bags out of reaction rather than hunger. Shiny lures, such as the Luhr-Jensen Twinky Rig behind a flasher, the Acme Kastmaster Spoon and a variety of soft-plastic swimbaits or hard crankbaits, will elicit strikes. Fly fishermen favor Dahlberg Divers, Wooly Buggers, Hex Nymphs and Glo Bugs.

Find the best fishing spots near you:

Find the best bait and tackle shops near you:

Walleyes Are Hungry and Willing

In similar fashion to bass, walleyes follow baitfish from the bigger lakes to feeder creeks and rivers with current.

Hot Spots To Fish: The Van Hook Arm of Lake Sakakawea (701-421-0360, vanhookguideservice.com) in North Dakota is a prime walleye destination, as is Wisconsin’s Lake Winnebago (920-598-0586, walleyepatrol.com

Tackle You’ll Need: Power fishing it’s not. Though walleyes might fatten up to well over 10 pounds, 2- to 4-pound fish are more the rule. Depending on the average size of the fish, 4- to 10-pound-test monofilament or fluorocarbon will do.

For spinning enthusiasts, the Quantum Vapor PT with matching rod will work. If you prefer trolling to casting, or bouncing a weight and natural bait on the bottom, try a baitcasting outfit such as a Fenwick/Pflueger Night Hawk or Iron Hawk combo.

Quick tip: Trolling at night with diving jerkbaits, such as the Storm Original ThunderStick or Lucky Craft Pointer 110, is a great way to catch walleyes. Troll in patterns from deep to shallow and back again, as the fish tend to relocate up and down drop-offs and channel runs depending on bait movement.

 

Best Lures/Bait: Leeches, nightcrawlers, minnows and everything from crankbaits to spinners will find favor with hungry fall walleyes. Top picks include: Rapala’s Shad Rap, Berkley’s Flicker Shad, Mepps’ Black Fury, Rapala’s Husky Jerk and Northland Fishing Tackle’s Forage Minnow Jigging Spoon.

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Photograph Courtesy of Michigan Department of Natural Resources Walleyes weighing more than 10 pounds apiece are routinely caught in the fall, but most fish are "good eating size," averaging about 3 pounds. http://45.55.122.59/article/best-places-to-fish-in-the-midwest-this-fall http://45.55.122.59/article/best-places-to-fish-in-the-midwest-this-fall Tue, 03 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0500
5 Cool Rock Climbing Spots in Nebraska Whether you’re just beginning your journey as a climber or you’re an expert practitioner, you will enjoy the following cool rock climbing spots across Nebraska. These are the best places where you and your friends can practice and enjoy putting your climbing skills to the test. Check out these five cool rock climbing spots before you head out and take on your next outdoor climb. 

SILO Extreme Outdoor Adventures is a very unique climbing experience. Constructed with artificial rocks on abandoned grain silos, you can choose from routes 30 to 100 feet. They will also be adding high ropes courses in the future for a one-of-a-kind climbing experience. 

Approach is a full-service indoor climbing gym that offers a great experience for beginners and families to the most hardcore climbers. With over 6,000 square-feet of climbing area and over 150 routes, there is endless practice opportunities here to sharpen up your skills. 

Located inside the University of Nebraska Omaha, the OVC climbing wall is over 2,500 square-feet of climbing heaven. Another cool feature is their 14-foot-tall boulder located in the middle of the climbing area. Students are free and non-members can purchase day passes. 

The FunRock Wall at Family Fun Center XL is a super cool way to rock climb. The wall moves on a conveyer belt so it is never ending! Choose from over 16 different difficulty levels and the wall will lean and move according to difficulty. 

The climbing wall located at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln is a great place for beginners and experts to rock climb. They also offer classes to help you build your climbing fitness and it’s a great way to practice your skills! 

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5 Best Birdwatching Hikes in Nebraska It’s true that Nebraska is home to the largest concentration of sandhill cranes on the planet, with over half a million birds making the state their wintering and breeding grounds. But that’s not all Nebraska birdwatching has to offer. From prairie birds to forest birds, Nebraska’s vast ecosystem provides the perfect home for birds of all kinds. Here are five wonderful bird watching hikes to check out in Nebraska.

During the spring months, a hike around the Platte River Valley is a must. Especially during March, when an astonishing half a million sandhill cranes make their way across the Platte Valley. To prepare for your hike, be sure to check the weather first as it can vary greatly depending on the time of year. You’ll want to dress comfortably to maximize your stay.

The Elkhorn Valley Trail features a scenic route across the rolling hills and prairies of Nebraska. It’s also a hotbed for birdwatching. Some of the best birdwatching sites along the trail are near the Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area as well as the Dead Timber State Recreation Area. 

The Missouri Valley Trail is right in the path for many migratory birds. As you make your way through the trail, you’ll encounter a number of great birdwatching spots. Some of the birds you might see along the trail include the American woodcock, the ruby-throated hummingbird, northern cardinals, barred owls, and some incredible snow geese.

Located alongside the Niobrara River, the Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge is a 19,000-acre paradise for a variety of Great Plains birds. If you make the trek, then get ready to spot a variety of plants, animals, and of course, birds. Birds native to the area include the grasshopper sparrow, the sharp-tailed grouse, and more than 230 other species.

The Central Sandhills Trail winds through the heart of Nebraska’s largest natural ecosystem. The 19,000-acre grassland region makes up almost a quarter of the entire state and the Nebraska Sandhills is the largest grassland ecosystem in the whole country. As a result, the trail is one of the best in the Midwest for spotting nesting and feeding birds of all kinds. Species of birds you’re bound to encounter on this trail include the black-crowned night heron, Wilson’s phalarope, eastern screech owl, white-breasted nuthatch, American avocet, Canada goose, trumpeter swan, and many others.

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http://45.55.122.59/article/5-best-birdwatching-hikes-in-nebraska http://45.55.122.59/article/5-best-birdwatching-hikes-in-nebraska Sun, 01 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0500
5 Stunning Foliage Hikes in Nebraska The diversity of plant species across Nebraska make it the perfect spot to get outside and enjoy a foliage hike. The crisp air and beautiful plant life offer some of the most peaceful and beautiful adventures. The breathtaking array of colors and wildlife in these places offer a journey into nature that is unmatched. 

The Lewis and Clark Scenic Byway is named after two of the most famous explorers and offers spectacular views of forests and the Missouri River. Along the way there are many places to hike including Pelican Point State Recreation Area and Scenic Park campground. 

At Indian Cave State Park you will find over 22 miles of hiking and biking trails that offer beautiful views of Nebraska’s outdoors. The spectacular show of color during autumn brings many tourists to the area to enjoy the spectacular views. 

Thousands of families travel to the Fontenelle Forest every year to experience over 26 miles of maintained trails and wildlife. The native prairies, lakes, and waterways offer beautiful scenery and foliage. 

The Ponca Hills are a great spot to view beautiful foliage during the autumn months. Located just north of Omaha, you can find a Halloween festival here and a ton of outdoor places to hike and experience nature. 

The Platte River State Park has two observation towers offering spectacular views of the Platte River valley. You will also find a waterfall and tons of scenic hiking and biking trails to explore. 

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5 Perfect Fall Camping Spots in Nebraska In Nebraska, the cooler weather in September and October provides comfortable days for enjoying the outdoors and cool nights for sleeping. Couple the amazing weather with the endless forests of yellow and orange and spectacular river views, and fall in Nebraska is one of the best times to plan your own camping getaway. So pack your bags and head out to enjoy one of these five perfect fall camping spots in Nebraska before winter hits! 

Indian Cave State Park near Shubert is one of the absolute best spots to camp in the Nebraska fall. Surrounded by endless forest and flora, set up your tent then head out to enjoy the numerous hiking and biking trails through the gorgeous fall-colored trees. During the month of October, Indian Cave campers also tend to decorate their campsites with lights and spooky decorations which can make for a fun, different way to experience Halloween activities.

Stretching alongside the eastern part of the Missouri River, Ponca State Park offers more than 20 miles of hiking trails for fans of fall foliage to enjoy. Campsites at Ponca State Park are paved and have electrical hookups, however, more primitive campsites are available if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous. In the fall, many families gather here to enjoy the cooler weather and have cookouts. 

The Eugene T. Mahoney State Park is another fantastic camping option for the fall. Well-maintained trails and a 70-foot observation tower provide stunning views of the Platte River and the forest filled with fall colors that surround it. Camping and fishing is allowed all year-round so make your way here and enjoy everything that fall in Nebraska has to offer.

Located right where the Niobrara and Missouri rivers meet, Niobrara State Park offers plenty of camping and outdoor activities to experience all year round. Campgrounds, horseback riding trails, hiking trails, and fishing, can all be enjoyed through the fall but the real treat is making your way to one of the lookout points and seeing the beautiful fall colors along the river banks.

Located about halfway between Omaha and Lincoln, Platte River State Park is the perfect weekend escape, even in the fall months. With spectacular views overlooking the Platte River, campers can enjoy their stay in a modern cabin, teepees, or their own tents. 

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5 Best Fishing Spots in Nebraska If you’re in search of a beautiful place to kick back, relax, and hook that big catch, Nebraska is your state. There are spectacular fishing options available in Nebraska year-round. Whether you’re into catching catfish or walleye, discover what makes Nebraska a great state for anglers with the five best fishing spots. 

When you think of Nebraska’s Sandhills you might think of arid dunes. However, there are also thousands of lakes scattered throughout the area. And while the majority of the lakes are quite shallow, it’s a great spot to find big yellow bellies and more. The public access area can get busy so make your way South where there is less traffic and deeper water to enjoy. The deepest Sandhill lake is the Blue Lake in Garden County. 

This reservoir on the North Platte River offers excellent boating and fishing with cool, clear, and deep waters. The fish you can find in Lake McConaughy include rainbow trout and catfish, but the prized fish is the walleye. In fact, the lake hosts several walleye tournaments each year. If you need to stock up on supplies before you go, check out Vogl’s Lodge & Lure in Lemoyne. Anglers will find gas, bait, tackle, permits, fishing licenses, and more. 

Nebraska’s Box Butte Reservoir boasts a 1,600-acre lake and another great fishing spot loaded with pike. In recent years, there have been efforts to reduce the overpopulation of pike in the lake, so make your way here for some fantastic catches any time of the year.

As one of the best spots to catch catfish in the state, the Merritt Reservoir offers fishing enthusiasts a great chance to hook a big fish from the shore or from a boat. Because of the booming catfish population, this spot is picking up popularity so get out there and catch some before everyone else does! Stop at the Merritt Trading Post Resort in Valentine for bait and tackle, convenience store snacks, beer, fuel, and much more. 

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The Wagon Train Lake is a smaller lake but with excellent fishing. From catfish to angler, this 315-acre lake is the perfect spot to catch a top-notch fish. Some fishermen have reported catching fish up to 12 to 15 pounds. Many locals also report catching largemouth bass, rock bass, bluegill, and much more at the Wagon Train Lake. 

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http://45.55.122.59/article/5-best-fishing-spots-in-nebraska http://45.55.122.59/article/5-best-fishing-spots-in-nebraska Thu, 22 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0500
5 Cool Spots for ATV Off-Roading in Nebraska If you want to get out into nature and explore some of the best outdoor trails with your ATV, then Nebraska has a ton of great options for you and your friends. There are plenty of outdoor playgrounds right in your backyard. We’ve gathered 5 awesome places for ATV off-roading in Nebraska that you must visit! 

ATVs, dirt bikes, snowmobiles, Jeeps, dune buggies, and more, are all permitted in the Bessey Ranger District. This spot is open year-round, and boasts 90,000 acres and 300 miles of roads, sand rails, ATV trails and more. This is an off-roading lover’s paradise.  

Fiddler Creek is a great motocross park that offers two awesome tracks, one main track and one for beginners. It’s a well-maintained track with friendly members. Membership gets you a key to the track, but you can also check their Facebook page for open rides days. 

Cedar Run offers a great combination of a 470-acre trail and also a nearby campground. The trail is open year-round and recent improvements include marking for your convenience. 

Off Road Ranch in Norfolk is an incredible place to get your fix of off-roading. Motocross bikes, ATVs, and quads are permitted to ride on the various courses. One great feature is the 300-foot sand drag strip to test your skills! 

Another popular spot for off-roading, this area allows ATVs, dirt bikes, dune buggies, sand trails, trucks, and more. This area is open year-round, barring inclement weather conditions during certain seasons. There are dirt roads and trails throughout Pine Ridge. There is also camping, auto tours, and hunting in the area. 

*Note: Age restrictions, special licenses, and other requirements for off highway vehicles vary from state to state. Before heading out on your OHV, please consult your local regulations.

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http://45.55.122.59/article/5-cool-spots-for-atv-off-roading-in-nebraska http://45.55.122.59/article/5-cool-spots-for-atv-off-roading-in-nebraska Wed, 21 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0500
ATV Off-Roading Adventure at Nebraska National Forest For ATV enthusiasts, there’s nothing better than a weekend getaway on the trails and back roads of Nebraska. No matter where you live in the state, you’re not far from a location perfectly suited for an adventure. The Nebraska National Forest offers over 300 miles of trails and is one of the best places in the Midwest for anyone who wants to experience the best of the best. Here’s our guide to the perfect off-roading weekend trip in Nebraska. 

Sprawling across more than 90,000 acres, the Nebraska National Forest (Bessey Ranger District) near Halsey is one of the most welcoming spots in the state for serious ATV and all other motorsport riders. Make your way into the park and enjoy 300 miles of roads and trails perfect for ATVs. The Nebraska National Forest is open year-round for both riding and camping.

After a long day of riding, there’s nothing like a hearty meal. Make your way to the nearby Cowpoke Cafe, a local hot spot in Thedford. The Cowpoke Cafe is famous for its delicious home cooking and with cold Nebraska-brewed beers, excellent burgers, and friendly service, what more could you ask for? 

After a day out enjoying the Nebraska National Forest, rest up at the Halsey Frontier Inn in downtown Halsey. This comfortable, friendly inn hosts many of the forest’s riders all year round, so they know exactly what you need after a long day out on the trails.

While you’re in the Nebraska National Forest, a visit to the Scott Lookout Tower is a must. Renovated in 2011, the tower offers stunning views of the surrounding forest and grasslands. Watch your step as the climb up to the tower is narrow, however, the 360-degree scenic views are a must-see!

On your way out, you can also stop at America’s 20th Century Veterans Memorial in North Platte. This ambitious monument honors military veterans and heroes who served their country and is made up of many larger-than-life bronze statues and plaques. The memorial is open year-round and self-guided tours are available. 

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Start Your Trek: 7 Unbeatable Hiking Retailers in Nebraska Looking to take on a weekend hike? No problem. There are plenty of stores that carry every piece of hiking gear you could ever want right here in Nebraska. Not only do these stores have all the gear you need, but they also have the knowledgeable staff that can help to recommend the top spots for your hike as well. So if you’re looking to step up your hiking game, then stop into one of these seven unbeatable hiking retailers in Nebraska.

The Moose’s Tooth in Lincoln carries a variety of outdoor gear in brands that you can trust will last for years, including Patagonia, the North Face, and more. For backpacks, hiking gear, and top-of-the-line apparel, outdoor enthusiasts will find everything they need at this friendly local shop.

Backwoods is a family-owned outdoor gear and apparel store located in Omaha. This Nebraska location carries a variety of outdoor apparel and gear fit for any hiking adventure. Stop in for trekking poles, hiking shoes, hydration packs and more in name brands like Sea to Summit, Oboz, and more.

QC Supply, headquartered in Schuyler, started in 1982 and has since grown into a local destination for not only farm supplies but also outdoor footwear, hiking gear, apparel, and more. Hit the trails in a pair of hiking boots from Ariat or Rocky

Scheels in Omaha has one of the top hiking gear selections in the state. Voted numerous times as one of the best sporting goods stores in the country, you can find brands like KEEN, Columbia, Merrell, and more. 

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Canfield’s in Omaha started in 1946 and has grown into one of Nebraska’s largest locally-owned outdoor sporting goods stores. The store carries an impressive array of hiking gear in name brands like Columbia, Life is Good, Marmot, and many more.

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Practicing her camping skills. 🤣

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Just as the name says, at this store you'll find outdoor clothing, shoes, and accessories. Threads is a happening place that caters to those with an outdoor lifestyle. This spot is perfect for those infatuated with hiking, and those who love doing so in style. Stock up on footwear from brands like Teva and gear from brands like Hydro Flask.

Sports Village started in 1984 helping athletes meet their performance goals with the right product. Here you'll find the essentials: shoes, duffel bags, thermal clothing, and much more. Come in and have someone help you find the right shoe from one of their over 500 styles! Under Armour and Nike are among the brands you will find at this active wear destination.

Through Sunday the 14th, stop in to save 20% on all Nike clothing! Only 11 more days of Christmas shopping left!

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http://45.55.122.59/article/start-your-trek-7-unbeatable-hiking-retailers-in-nebraska http://45.55.122.59/article/start-your-trek-7-unbeatable-hiking-retailers-in-nebraska Thu, 01 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0500
5 Awesome Campgrounds for Families in Nebraska The state parks in Nebraska offer some incredible, modern campgrounds for families to enjoy. If your family is seeking a weekend getaway or an outdoor adventure with convenient and family-friendly amenities, then check out these five great campgrounds for young families to enjoy in Nebraska! 

Ponca State Park covers over 2,400 acres where families can camp out among the forest-covered hills. With well-maintained trails, horseback riding, and stunning scenes overlooking the river bluffs, there’s no shortage of fun to be had. The camping facilities at Ponca State Park feature water and electrical hookups, shower facilities, playgrounds, picnic areas, and much more. If you can’t fit the whole family in a tent, then Ponca State Park also offers modern cabins with air conditioning and all of the amenities to rent.

As one of the most historic parks in the Nebraska parks system, Fort Robinson covers over 20,000 acres in the panhandle of the state and features stunning views of the Pine Ridge lands, historic sites, and lots of wildlife. Families can get a dose of history at the onsite museum, and learn about the natural history and geology of the area. For families, a restaurant on the premises makes it easy to organize meals and the camping facilities are second to none. Electric hookups, modern showers, picnic areas, shelters, and much more make Fort Robinson the perfect family getaway.

Johnson Lake is one of the best areas in Nebraska to set up camp. This Elwood campsite has a long list of amenities including a boat launch area for boaters, a fish cleaning station for the anglers, and picnic areas. Activities include sail boating and boarding, excellent stargazing, swimming, water skiing, birdwatching and a playground for the little ones.

Nice little set up for the weekend #earlybday @meg_rush #camping

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With an emphasis on family fun, the Camp A Way campsite near Lincoln offers lots of great activities, such as themed weekends and pancake breakfasts, for families to enjoy. Children can splash around in the pool and families of all ages can play at the nostalgic arcade or with giant family games like chess and Connect Four. The campgrounds at Camp A Way are modern and offer families both relaxing options and more social options for the weekend.

Located in Southeast Nebraska, Eugene T. Mahoney State Park is another excellent option for nice campgrounds in the heart of the wilderness. Families with younger children can enjoy a variety of activities onsite, including a swimming pool, wave pool, water slides, mini golf, and much more. Outdoor activities include beautiful nature trails, fishing, observation areas, playgrounds, ice skating in the winter, and lots of activities for all ages. Eugene T. Mahoney State Park features over 50 modern cabins with shower and laundry facilities for a hotel atmosphere right in the heart of the wilderness.

Campfire = relaxation!

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http://45.55.122.59/article/5-awesome-campgrounds-for-families-in-nebraska http://45.55.122.59/article/5-awesome-campgrounds-for-families-in-nebraska Thu, 01 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0500