Elkhorn River Timber Claim Trail

Before settlement, the Elkhorn River valley supported vast cottonwood forests that early homesteaders called ‘The Big Woods.’ This 18-mile trail follows section lines and old timber claim roads through what remains of these ancient bottomlands, passing abandoned farmsteads reclaimed by decades of flooding. The route starts near Neligh and winds through dense timber where pheasants explode from cover and deer bound through towering cottonwoods that date back 200 years. Key waypoints include the old Bartlett ferry crossing and Timber Claim Cemetery, where pioneer graves lie scattered among the trees.

Easy trail suitable for any high-clearance vehicle, though spring flooding can make sections impassable March through May. Several creek crossings require attention during high water. Active farmland surrounds the route, so respect private property and stay on established roads. Best driven late summer through fall when water levels drop and mosquitoes subside. Carry bug spray regardless. No services between Neligh and Ewing. Excellent bird watching and a glimpse into what eastern Nebraska looked like before the plow transformed the prairie.