Fort Falls
Nebraska • 45 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.8 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
100 ft
About Fort Falls
Fort Falls is a picturesque waterfall located within the Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge in Nebraska. It is a serene spot surrounded by lush greenery and is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and hikers.
The Setting
Fort Falls sits at 2,398 feet within Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge, fed by the Niobrara River, in the hills of Nebraska. The falls drop 45 feet.
Height: 45 feet
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Smith Falls, the tallest waterfall in Nebraska at 70 feet, lies 7.6 miles to the east. Also nearby: Berry Falls (10 ft, 5.2 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 0.8-mile out-and-back trail gains 100 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Fort Falls is a short and well-maintained path that includes a staircase leading down to the base of the waterfall. The trail is surrounded by scenic views of the Niobrara River Valley and offers a peaceful hiking experience.
What to Expect
The falls drop 45 feet. Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Fort Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $0.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Fort Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit Fort Falls, as the waterfall is typically at its fullest due to seasonal rainfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Be cautious on the staircase, as it may be slippery when wet. Watch for wildlife and avoid disturbing animals. Stay on designated trails to protect the environment and ensure safety.
Current Water Conditions
854 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 80 years of record
2.87 ft
Water depth at gauge
59°F
ColdBracing — limit time in water
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year. Water temperature is a bracing 59 degrees F, limit your time in the water. Expect very murky conditions with low visibility and excellent dissolved oxygen levels. PH is alkaline at 8.6 and mineral content is typical.
Water Quality
Dissolved Oxygen
ExcellentSupports aquatic life
pH
AlkalineAbove normal range (6.5-8.5)
Water Clarity
Slightly cloudyMinor sediment present
Conductance
Dissolved minerals in the water
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Valentine hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Fort Falls is located within the Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge, approximately 4 miles east of Valentine, Nebraska. Visitors can access the refuge via Highway 12 and follow signs to the parking area near the trailhead.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a designated parking area near the trailhead for Fort Falls within the wildlife refuge.
Elevation
2398 feet above sea level
Coordinates
42.900636° N, -100.465816° W
Land Management
Managed by FWS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the staircase can be slippery, especially after rain. Bring water and insect repellent, especially during the summer months. Plan to visit early in the day to avoid crowds.
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For this easy 0.8 miles trail, lightweight trail shoes and a water bottle are usually sufficient. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
Osprey Daylite Daypack
Light, organized, and just the right size for a day hike — fits water, snacks, and layers.
Where to Stay
Heart City Cozy
The Niobrara Lodge
Comfort Inn Valentine
Harmony Inn & Suites
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the Niobrara River, which is popular for canoeing and kayaking, and the Valentine National Wildlife Refuge.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including bison, elk, deer, and numerous bird species.
Cities near Fort Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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