Are there fees or permits required for Tyler Falls?

No, there are no fees required to visit Tyler Falls.

Is swimming allowed at Tyler Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Tyler Falls.

Live Conditions · 572 ft³/s · About average

Tyler Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Tyler Falls?

No, dogs are not allowed at Tyler Falls.

Nebraska

By Armen Suny · Last verified May 2026

Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge NWR · FWS

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

2.4 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

350 ft

About Tyler Falls

Tyler Falls is a tucked-away, seasonal cascade in Nebraska's Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge, managed by the FWS (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service). This lesser-known drop tends to run after significant rainfall or snowmelt, offering a quiet, photogenic moment amid the refuge’s riparian corridors and native vegetation. Because flows are intermittent, visiting after wet weather gives the best chance of seeing the falls at their peak. Visitors most commonly reach Tyler Falls via a maintained out-and-back route that provides a compact day outing without requiring a long backcountry trek. The hike covers roughly 2.4 miles round-trip with about 350 feet of elevation gain and is typically rated moderate — a rewarding choice for hikers who enjoy a short climb and wildlife-viewing opportunities inside a protected national wildlife refuge. As always, check refuge access information before you go and be mindful of seasonal conditions and wildlife.

The Setting

Tyler Falls sits at 2,418 feet within Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge, fed by the Niobrara River, in the hills of Nebraska.

Nearby Falls Worth Visiting

Smith Falls, the tallest waterfall in Nebraska at 70 feet, lies 5.7 miles to the east. Also nearby: Fort Falls (45 ft, 2.0 mi) and Berry Falls (10 ft, 3.2 mi).

Smith Falls Fort Falls Berry Falls

Trail & Hike Details

The Approach

The moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 350 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.

Trail Description

Out-and-back route, 2.4 miles round-trip with approximately 350 feet of elevation gain; rated moderate. Specific USFS/USFWS trail surface, grade, and technical class data are not available for this route, so hikers should expect natural footing and some uphill sections. Plan for a short but moderately steep hike and check Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge conditions before setting out.

What to Expect

Tyler Falls is likely a small, seasonal waterfall that may not flow year-round. The surrounding area may include natural landscapes typical of Nebraska, such as grasslands or wooded areas.

Accessibility

The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Tyler Falls?

❌ Dogs are not allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Tyler Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall

The best time to visit is typically after heavy rainfall or during spring snowmelt, when the waterfall is most likely to be flowing.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.

Safety Information

Visitors should be cautious of uneven terrain, slippery rocks, and potential wildlife encounters. Always check weather conditions before visiting.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 1 hour ago Low

572 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

About average for this time of year

Very Low Low Normal High Very High

445 528 698 836

Based on 80 years of record

2.64 ft

Water depth at gauge

78°F

Comfortable

Pleasant for swimming

7-Day Discharge Trend

What does this mean for your visit?

Flow is about average for this time of year. The water is a comfortable 78 degrees F, pleasant for swimming. Expect slightly cloudy visibility and adequate dissolved oxygen levels. PH is alkaline at 8.6 and mineral content is typical.

Water Quality

6.4 mg/L

Dissolved Oxygen

Good

Adequate oxygen levels

8.6

Alkaline

Above normal range (6.5-8.5)

10.1 FNU

Water Clarity

Slightly cloudy

Minor sediment present

231 µS/cm

Conductance

Dissolved minerals in the water

About This Gauge

Niobrara River near Sparks, Nebr.

USGS 06461500

3.2 miles from waterfall

Drainage: 7,150 sq mi

Altitude: 2,289 ft

7-Day Flow Outlook

Based on the USGS gauge Niobrara River near Sparks, Nebr. (5 km away).

High confidence

Low right now

572 cfs

→ Holding steady

Today

Low

572 cfs

6/10

Tomorrow

Low

576 cfs

6/10

Sun

Low

571 cfs

6/10

Mon

Low

564 cfs

6/10

Tue

Low

556 cfs

6/10

Wed

Low

558 cfs

6/10

Thu

Low

561 cfs

6/10

Best window: Today — low flow, mostly sunny (trip score 6/10).

Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid February to mid May, peaking in March.

How we calculate this

This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.

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

Specific directions to Tyler Falls are not well-documented. Visitors are advised to consult local resources or maps for guidance. It may be located on private or less accessible land, so confirm access rights before visiting.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking availability is unclear. Visitors should prepare for limited or no designated parking areas near the site.

Elevation

2,418 feet above sea level

Coordinates

42.903833° N, -100.426106° W

Land Management

Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge NWR

Managed by FWS

Visitor Tips & Gear

Check recent weather conditions to ensure the waterfall is flowing. Bring a map or GPS device, as the location may not be well-marked. Respect private property and local regulations.

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With 2.4 miles and 350 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.