Nebraska Waterfall and Natural Trails Entice at Platte River State Park

Splendid Nebraska Hiking Location at Platte River State Park

Platte River State Park in Louisville, Nebraska welcomes nature lovers to explore a variety of nature experiences including a slightly rolling hike to a waterfall as well as views of the Platte River. We spent a morning forest bathing on the trails of Platte River State Park and immediately discovered a remarkable preserve. 

Natural trails roll through Platte River State Park.

Upon learning that there is a waterfall at Platte River State Park, we knew we would have to embark on trails to the cascade. We began our journey on trails that spindled from the area of the outdoor amphitheater. As we made our way to the waterfall, we enjoyed the slight up-and-down of the trail. The tree canopy was thick, so we benefitted from a little shade on a pretty sunny day.

The slight tremble of rapids before the falls.

Approaching the Sparkling Waterfall

We heard the waterfall before we approached it. We marveled at a few rapids before taking in scene closer to the waterfall. Trails rewarded with a few different views of the waterfall and I recommend taking the opportunity to explore the variety of vantage points.

The gentle trickle of the waterfall crafts a moment of serenity.

The waterfall cascaded in chunky, silver dribbles over layered rock slabs. We paused quite a bit to admire the how the sun illuminated the waterfall. After taking in the serenity of the waterfall, we continued a bit along the creek and headed towards where we could see the Platte River peeking through the trees. Train tracks just outside of the preserve's perimeter separated us from a closer view. But, don't worry -- we would soon enjoy a fantastic view in another section of the park!

The Platte River peeking from behind the trees.

We savored our morning meander, winding on rolling paths some with a bit of elevation gained! We peered into rocky ravines and took in views of a gently, ever so slightly curvy stream. 

A bridge crosses a meandering stream in the dense forest.

Climbing the Tower

After completing our hike, we popped over to another section of the park to explore the tower. Reaching up to the sky above Platte River State Park is the 85-foot observation tower. The climb up the tower treats with spectacular  views of the preserve and the Platte River. The views rank among some of the most spectacular we have seen, so don't skip the tower! Whether you can climb in one swoop or need to pause, I actually recommend taking some pauses at various landings to view the different perspectives. Just breathtaking!

The trek up the tower is worth it for the view of the Platte River!

The Platte River folded out in front of us majestically from viewpoints on the tower. Puffy green trees, brilliant blue skies, a trail of marshmallow clouds and a gradually arching river wove together an awe-worthy scene. Just incredible!

Breathtaking view of the Platte River from a top the tower at Platte River State Park.

Adjacent to the tower is a nature center providing more information on the preserve. Trails also can be accessed from this point. This offers another point to start your Platte River State Park adventure.

Our morning hike and tower climb at Platter River State Park treated us to a beautiful piece of Nebraska's great outdoors. We did pay an out-of-state daily fee for the park but it was not cumbersome and the pass could be used at any state park during a 24-hour period. Platte River State Park bestowed a lush environment for a hike with plenty of interesting natural features. Platte River State Park is truly a spectacular park worth a visit if you are visiting Omaha or Lincoln.

Other Adventures at Platte River State Park:

• Camping and Cabins
• Mountain Biking
• Spray Park
• Canoeing, Kayaking and Paddle boating
• Crawdad Creek which invites exploration.
• Trail Rides and more!