From Valentine onto the prairie
The Cowboy Trail follows a former Chicago and Northwestern Railway corridor across Nebraska’s Sandhills. Its Valentine section starts at the City Park trailhead on Main Street, three blocks north of the Highway 83 and Highway 20 junction. Public parking is along Main Street, and city bikes are available to rent at the trailhead. NPS
Leaving Valentine, the trail crosses mixed grass and tall grass prairies and Sandhills prairie. The crushed-gravel corridor is eight feet wide and supports biking, walking, hiking, equestrian use, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and dog sledding. Users share the trail and should yield to one another. NPS
A bridge as a natural destination
A prominent landmark is the historic railroad bridge spanning the Niobrara National Scenic River. From the Valentine City Park trailhead, it is 2.5 miles one way. The bridge stands 148 feet tall and spans 0.25 miles, a striking remnant of the railroad route that now gives this trail section a clear destination. NPS
A closer approach is possible from the Highway 20 trailhead and parking lot: the bridge is 0.75 miles away. The source describes walking out and back from there as taking about an hour, though it can be done in much shorter time. These different starting points let visitors choose between a short walk and a longer ride from town. NPS
Prepare for gravel and distance
The trail is described as handicap accessible, but crushed gravel can be rough or wet depending on recent weather. Check trail conditions before setting out. Sandburs, also called goat’s head, can puncture tires, and replacement tubes may be hard to find in Valentine; carrying extra tubes and patches is a practical choice for cyclists. NPS
There are few trailheads with food and water outside towns, so pack snacks and water. Towns and trailheads are described as 10-15 miles apart on average, with some farther apart. Riders continuing beyond the bridge should plan stops ahead; some communities offer camping, and communities welcome trail users. NPS
Use the trail through the seasons
The Cowboy Trail is listed for all seasons, with activities shifting from biking and hiking to winter pursuits such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Leashed pets are allowed; the route passes through cattle-grazing areas and canyons, making a leash useful for keeping animals safe. NPS
The trail can be accessed at any time of day. For dawn, dusk, or night use, the park advises carrying a headlamp and emergency light and wearing reflective clothing or bike accessories. Wildlife, including mountain lions, has been spotted at night, so riders should take precautions. NPS
Sources & further reading
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