Cowboy Recreation Trail Section 14 East

The eastern terminus of Nebraska’s converted rail-trail becomes a proper backcountry route as it pushes past Valentine through the wildlife refuge’s roadless sections. This abandoned Chicago and North Western line crosses thirteen bridges over marshy creeks and sloughs, with the biggest challenge being the washed-out Minnechaduza Creek crossing at mile marker 387. The grade itself stays firm, but spring meltwater turns low spots into axle-deep mud wallows that’ll test your momentum and tire choice.

Stock 4WD handles dry conditions fine, but high clearance becomes essential during wet periods when the trail turns into a shallow canal. No permits needed for the trail itself, though camping requires refuge permission. Best tackled late summer through fall when water levels drop and the wetlands firm up. You’ll earn solitude among some of Nebraska’s wildest country — sandhill cranes by the thousands and not another soul for miles.