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OutdoorNebraska.gov | 57 S tretching from Norfolk 317 miles west to Chadron, the Cowboy Trail is one of the largest Rails-to-Trails projects in the United States. It is part of the Great American Trails Network. The trail is developed between Norfolk and Valentine, a 187-mile stretch of crushed limestone that passes through spectacular scenery. The trail is also open 15 miles from Rushville to Gordon. Whether you're seeking a pleasant evening nature walk, a weekend bicycle trip, a long-distance run, or a convenient route to explore the Great Plains on horseback, the Cowboy Trail experience is yours to make. WHAT YOU'LL SEE Enter or exit at any point, and you'll be immersed in nature. Wildlife is abundant, from box turtles and monarchs to pheasants, quail, songbirds and ground squirrels. You'll also see unique prairie flora and fauna and witness echoes of fascinating American history. The Cowboy Trail's signature sites are its long bridges offering spectacular views: a 148-foot-tall former railroad bridge east of Valentine and a 145-foot-tall bridge at Long Pine. TRAIL ETIQUETTE: • Motorized vehicles, UTV's, ATV's, tractors, etc. are not permitted. • Respect private property; stay on the trail and other public property. • Obey traffic signs. Vehicles have right of way at road crossings. • Cyclists give right-0f-way to all other trail users, while hikers yield to horseback riders. Announce presence when passing, pass on the left. • All pets must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet. • Drinking alcoholic beverages is prohibited, and littering is subject to a $100 fine. • Camping, fires, hunting and use of firearms is also prohibited. • Horseback riders, please ride on the mowed trail edge. • Leave no trace, respect wildlife. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Phone: 402-471-5443 Email: ngpc.cowboy.trail@nebraska.gov Website: OutdoorNebraska.gov/CowboyTrail Online Map: gismaps.OutdoorNebraska.gov/NGPC_Trails NOTE: Flooding in 2019 damaged several portions of the Cowboy Trail. See the online map for current closures. COWBOY RECREATION AND NATURE TRAIL Cowboy Trail near Norfolk Valentine Wood Lake Johnstown Ainsworth Long Pine Bassett Newport Stuart Atkinson O'Neill Emmet Inman Ewing Clearwater Neligh Norfolk Oakdale Tilden Meadow Grove Battle Creek Gordon Rushville Chadron Kilgore Cody Merriman Hay Springs COWBOY RECREATION AND NATURE TRAIL Completed Trail Uncompleted Trail