🌤 Weather at Cowboy Trail by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25–71 °F | 56–89 °F | 24–78 °F | 13–39 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Valentine #1, 11 mi away, elevation 2,589 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
🏆 At 195 miles, the Cowboy Trail is the longest rail-trail in Nebraska and one of the longest in the US — following the former Chicago and North Western Railway through the Sandhills from Norfolk to Valentine!
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | multiple, NE |
| Entry Fee | NE Park Permit Required |
| Size | 195 miles |
About the Cowboy Trail
The Cowboy Trail is a 195-mile rail-trail stretching across northern Nebraska from Norfolk to Valentine — the longest rail-trail in the United States. Built on the former Chicago and North Western Railway corridor, the trail passes through the Sandhills, across the Niobrara River valley, and through small ranching towns. The trail showcases Nebraska’s vast, uncrowded prairie landscape.
Things to Do
Hiking and biking America’s longest rail-trail, horseback riding, birdwatching across the Sandhills, visiting small ranching towns, crossing historic railroad bridges, and experiencing the expansive Nebraska prairie landscape.
The Cowboy Trail Experience
The Cowboy Trail is the longest rail-trail in Nebraska at 195 miles, running from Norfolk to Valentine along the former Chicago & Northwestern Railroad through the Sandhills — North America’s largest sand dune system, stabilized by grass. The trail crosses 221 bridges and passes through some of the most sparsely populated landscape in the lower 48. The Sandhills overlie the Ogallala Aquifer, the underground ocean that irrigates the Great Plains.
Trail Highlights
Crossing the scenic Niobrara River valley, traversing the grass-covered sand dunes, passing through small ranching communities, camping at trailside parks, wildlife viewing for elk and deer, and cycling through landscapes where cattle outnumber people by 50 to 1.
Insider Tips
Longest rail-trail: The Cowboy Trail follows a former railroad corridor for 195 miles across northern Nebraska — one of the longest rail-trail conversions in the US. Pro tip: The trail passes through the Sandhills, the Niobrara River valley, and small towns frozen in time. Bike packing: Multi-day bike trips on the Cowboy Trail are gaining popularity — plan water and food stops carefully in remote stretches.
Best Time to Visit
Fall: Comfortable temperatures and golden prairie. Spring: Green-up and wildflowers. Summer: Long days but hot. Avoid: Exposed sections have no shade — carry abundant water.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Cowboy Trail?
195 miles from Norfolk to Valentine — one of the longest rail-trails in the US. The trail follows the old Chicago & North Western Railway corridor across northern Nebraska. Not all sections are fully developed — check conditions before planning a through-ride.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Smith Falls State Park (a short drive away) or Merritt Reservoir State Recreation Area (within about an hour’s drive).
Camping reservations: Book campsites and cabins for Nebraska state parks online at nebraskastateparks.reserveamerica.com.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Cowboy Trail
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are allowed in Nebraska state park areas, including campgrounds, provided they are leashed, crated or caged.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- All animals must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet, or crated or caged.
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Designated swimming beaches and pools are off-limits to all animals except service dogs.
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Pets are allowed in cabins for a $25 one-time pet fee per unit; pets are not allowed in lodge rooms.
- Pet fees statewide rule
- $25 one-time pet fee per unit for pets in cabins; no day-use pet fee.
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- At Lake McConaughy SRA leashing is strictly enforced to protect Least Tern and Piping Plover nesting areas; pets at large may be impounded.
Are dogs allowed at Cowboy Trail?
Pets are allowed in Nebraska state park areas, including campgrounds, provided they are leashed, crated or caged. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via outdoornebraska.gov. More: Nebraska state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for Cowboy Trail
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
