Cowboy Trail
The Cowboy Trail – Nebraska’s 190‑Mile Rail‑Trail Across the Prairie
The Cowboy Trail stretches across northern Nebraska from Valentine to Norfolk, following the former Chicago & North Western Railway corridor. It is one of the longest rail‑trails in the United States and a signature outdoor experience for travelers exploring the Highway 20 region. The trail connects Sandhills scenery, river valleys, prairie towns, wildlife areas, and historic railroad structures.
Trail Location
The Cowboy Trail parallels Nebraska Highway 20, making it easy to access from dozens of towns and communities.
- Western Terminus: Valentine
- Eastern Terminus: Norfolk
- Developed Length: ~190 miles
- Surface: Crushed limestone
- Uses: Biking, walking, running, horseback riding, birding, photography
Towns Along the Cowboy Trail (West → East)
Cherry County
Brown County
Rock County
Holt County
Antelope County
Madison County
Points of Interest Along the Trail
Natural Attractions
- Niobrara National Scenic River
- Long Pine Creek (spring‑fed trout stream)
- Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge
- Valentine National Wildlife Refuge
- Elkhorn River access near Ewing and Clearwater
Historic & Cultural Sites
- Niobrara River Trestle
- Neligh Mill State Historic Site
- O’Neill Irish heritage sites
- Ainsworth Railroad & Sandhills Museum
- Long Pine Railroad District
Trailheads & Visitor Facilities
- Valentine Trailhead
- Ainsworth Trailhead
- O’Neill Trailhead
- Norfolk Ta‑Ha‑Zouka Park
History of the Cowboy Trail
The Cowboy Trail occupies the former Chicago & North Western Railway, which once connected northern Nebraska’s ranching and farming communities to national markets. Rail service began in the late 1800s, and after operations ended, Nebraska Game & Parks began converting the corridor into a recreational trail in the 1990s.
Educational Resources Along the Corridor
- Norfolk Public Schools & Northeast Community College
- O’Neill Public Schools & St. Mary’s Catholic Schools
- Ainsworth Community Schools
- Valentine Community Schools
- Public libraries throughout the corridor
Healthcare Resources Along the Trail
- Faith Regional Health Services (Norfolk)
- Avera St. Anthony’s Hospital (O’Neill)
- Rock County Hospital (Bassett)
- Brown County Hospital (Ainsworth)
- Cherry County Hospital (Valentine)
- Clinics and pharmacies in most towns
Why People Love the Cowboy Trail
- Safe, quiet, scenic route across northern Nebraska
- Easy access to small‑town services
- Family‑friendly and suitable for all skill levels
- Rich history, wildlife, and Sandhills landscapes
- Perfect for multi‑day bikepacking or short day trips
