Cowboy Trail Railroad Grade Loop
Historic rail grade through Sandhills ranch country
The Cowboy Trail follows the abandoned Chicago & North Western railway bed across north-central Nebraska, but this backcountry loop takes you off the main recreational trail onto rougher parallel ranch roads and forgotten rail spurs. You’ll cross the Elkhorn River valley multiple times on historic steel trestle bridges, some reaching 60 feet above the water. The old Valentine-Verdigre line cuts through prime Sandhills country, passing ghost towns like Thayer and Johnstown where only concrete foundations and windmill towers remain standing.
Easy to moderate difficulty depending on recent weather – the old rail grade stays fairly level, but connecting ranch roads can get muddy after rain. Any vehicle with decent ground clearance can handle most sections, though 4WD helps in wet conditions. Best run spring through fall when river levels are manageable. The trestle bridges are sturdy but narrow – take your time and check clearances. Great overnight trip with camping opportunities along the Elkhorn River, plus you’re following legitimate Old West history where cattle drives once crossed these same valleys.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Easy |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route, Scenic Drive |
| Surface | Dirt, Gravel |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 45 mi / 72.4 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 2180 ft |
| Best season | April-November |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock high-clearance |
| Nearest town | Ainsworth, Nebraska |
| Land manager | Nebraska Game and Parks Commission |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Subaru Outback make it on the Cowboy Trail?
Yes, any stock high-clearance vehicle can handle this easy gravel and dirt trail. The railroad grade keeps things relatively flat with minimal technical obstacles.
Is the trail accessible in winter months?
Best to stick to April through November when weather conditions are most predictable. Winter snow and ice can make the trestle bridges particularly sketchy.
Do I need permits to camp along the Cowboy Trail?
No permits required for dispersed camping along the trail corridor managed by Nebraska Game and Parks. Just follow Leave No Trace principles.
How challenging are the water crossings?
The Elkhorn River crossings are straightforward for any high-clearance vehicle during normal flow conditions. Check recent weather before attempting after heavy rains.
Should I plan on having cell service for navigation?
Cell service is spotty throughout the Sandhills, so download offline maps before heading out. The historic railroad grade is well-defined but having backup navigation is smart.