SMITH FALLS - Smith Falls S.P. Valentine, Nebraska

Smith Falls State Park was established in 1992. Smith Falls is located on the Niobrara River. Of the 180 falls on the 20-mile stretch of the Niobrara River Valley, Smith Falls is the tallest waterfall in Nebraska. The spring-fed fall drops 70 feet then flows into the Niobrara River.

Smith Falls State Park is 4 miles down a gravel road off of Highway 12. You'll wind through corn fields, see wildlife like, turkeys, deer, squirrels, rabbits, and buffalo. You'll cross a couple of cattle guards, and wonder to yourself, "Where in God's country are we going to again?"

DIRECTIONS:  Driving directions for Smith Falls SP from Valentine you go 15 miles east on Highway 12 to the Smith Falls State Park sign, then turn right. Travel 4 miles south on a gravel road to park.
A state park permit is required. Stop in the office to obtain one, then drive through the campground to the walkway that leads over walk bridges and across a historic truss bridge that spans the river. Once across the bridge, a short walk to a boardwalk leads to the falls.

The park is open April 1 - November 30.

ACCESSIBILITY: A walkway leads over walk bridges and across a historic truss bridge that spans the river. Once across the bridge, a short walk to a boardwalk leads to the falls.

 TYPE OF FALL:  Fan

BRIGGS WOODS COUNTY PARK - Webster City, Iowa

Briggs Woods Park is located at 2490 Briggs Woods Trail in Hamilton County, Iowa, two and one-half miles south of Webster City off of Highway 17. The park is 550 acres and is easily accessible by wheelchair, strollers, or bikes.  However, the path to the falls is a grassy steep path. I made it to the falls only by the strength of my husband. If you have a motorized wheelchair, you'll be good to go by yourself, otherwise, waterfall access is difficult. Highway 20 offers clear access to the east and west, while Interstate 35 is located about 12 miles east of highway 17.

FALL TYPE:  Briggs Woods Falls has three tiers cascading over rock formations.