Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge

Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge began as a military post. Its mission today is preserving wildlife habitat. A driving tour reveals prairie dogs, burrowing owls, badgers, upland sandpipers, turtles and other animals. Watch for bison cooling off in the pond, or hike the trail to Fort Falls. The refuge’s visitor center has exhibits explaining military history, and explains how six unique ecosystems meet here. Fossils discovered here are on display. Discover this gem five miles east of Valentine on Highway 12.