Nebraska's tallest waterfall at about 63 feet, reached by a footbridge across the Niobrara River in the state's newest state park.
Smith Falls drops about 63 feet, making it Nebraska's tallest waterfall, inside Smith Falls State Park on the Niobrara River near Valentine. Historical estimates of its height have varied widely over the years — from 60 to as much as 100 feet in early accounts — but 63 feet is the figure most commonly cited today. The park is named for Frederic Smith, who filed the original homestead claim on the land.
Access starts with a footbridge across the Niobrara from the park's north side, followed by the Jim MacAllister Nature Trail, about 1.5 miles round trip with roughly 200 feet of elevation change from the canyon bottom to the top — generally considered easy despite the climb. The visitor center has maps, historical displays, and a fossil exhibit worth a stop before or after the walk.
Know before you go
Smith Falls State Park, 90165 Smith Falls Rd, Valentine, NE; cross the footbridge from the north side.
Year-round; the Niobrara area is popular for summer river trips too.
Jim MacAllister Nature Trail, about 1.5 miles round trip, easy.
Nebraska state park entry permit required.
Not accessible; footbridge crossing and a canyon-bottom-to-rim trail.
2026-10-11. Conditions and requirements can change; confirm with the land manager before travelling.
Sources & further reading
This is a researched visitor guide, not a claim that our editors have personally visited. Trail conditions, permits, and access can change.
