Adventure brief
Tubing -5.5 Hour Trip-10:00AM-Berry Bridge to Penbrook Landing
Float from Berry Bridge to Penbrook Landing on a 5.5-hour tubing trip with Little Outlaw Canoe, featuring a scenic stop at Nebraska’s tallest waterfall, Smith Falls. Enjoy a morning shuttle and a seamless outdoor escape along the Niobrara River.
Carving through the heart of Nebraska’s rugged Niobrara River corridor, Little Outlaw Canoe, Tube and Kayak offers an immersive 5.5-hour tubing trip from Berry Bridge to Penbrook Landing. This route delivers a seamless blend of adventure and natural beauty, making it a standout in Valentine’s outdoor recreation scene. Launch your day with a convenient morning shuttle from Penbrook Landing to Berry Bridge, setting you up for a relaxing yet invigorating float along the river.
The river’s current guides you past diverse riverbank scenery marked by towering cottonwoods and rugged sandstone bluffs that display Nebraska’s unique geological history. Midway, the journey pauses at Smith Falls, the state’s tallest waterfall, where crystal-clear water cascades 63 feet—a perfect photo opportunity and a refreshing spot to stretch your legs. Little Outlaw Canoe, Tube and Kayak holds a reputation for its deep local knowledge and seamless trip logistics, essential in a region where river access can be tricky and shuttle arrangements complex.
Their service elevates a simple tubing trip into a full-day outdoor escape, blending relaxation with the thrill of the river’s flow. Valentine and the Niobrara River sit at the intersection of Great Plains prairie and northern woodlands, rich with wildlife like white-tailed deer and bald eagles. For visitors seeking a balanced outdoor experience—easy water travel combined with impressive natural features—this tubing trip hits the mark.
Whether you’re chasing riverfront solitude or stopping to admire Smith Falls’ power, Little Outlaw’s trip fosters connection to Nebraska’s lesser-known but stunning wilderness corridor. Ideal for those new to river tubing yet eager for a substantial outdoor day, Little Outlaw’s offering creates lasting memories bound to draw visitors back to Valentine’s wild landscapes.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Arrive Early for Shuttle Pickupessential
Plan to meet at Penbrook Landing by 10:00 AM to catch the shuttle to Berry Bridge and start fresh.
- 02Wear Secure Footwearinfo
River bottoms can be rocky near Smith Falls; closed-toe water shoes help protect your feet.
- 03Protect Your Electronicsimportant
Use waterproof cases or dry bags to keep phones and cameras safe during the float.
- 04Pack Snacks and Hydrationinfo
Bring water and portable snacks to stay energized on this 5.5-hour adventure.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Water Shoes
Protects feet from rocks and slippery surfaces during the float and stops.
summerEssentialWaterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone, keys, and valuables safe and dry on the river.
EssentialSunscreen
Necessary for sun protection during extended time on the water.
summerEssentialReusable Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is vital on a 5.5-hour tubing trip.
EssentialLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Smith Falls scenic stop, Quiet river eddies perfect for wildlife watching
Local fauna
Bald eagles, River otters
Historic heritage
The Niobrara River corridor was designated a National Scenic River in 1991, preserving its diverse ecosystems and geological features.
Mindful exploration
Little Outlaw Canoe promotes leave-no-trace principles to protect the fragile river corridor and supports ongoing habitat preservation efforts in the Niobrara watershed.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Smith Falls overlook, River bends near Penbrook Landing, Sandstone bluff edges
- Subjects
- Waterfalls, Wildlife along the riverbank, Textured rock formations
- Best times
- Golden hour, mid-morning, overcast days for even light
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
What should I bring on the tubing trip?
Bring water, sunscreen, closed-toe water shoes, and waterproof storage for your belongings.
Is this tubing trip suitable for kids?
Yes, the trip is family-friendly and designed for all ages, but children should be comfortable in water and supervised.
How do I get to the launch site?
A morning shuttle picks up guests at Penbrook Landing and transports them to Berry Bridge launch site.
What if the weather changes during the trip?
Trips go rain or shine, but severe weather may cause cancellations or rescheduling.
Are life jackets provided?
Yes, all participants are provided with properly fitted life jackets for safety.
Can I bring a waterproof camera or phone?
Absolutely, but using a waterproof dry bag or case is recommended to protect your devices.