Experience the Outlaw Trail Scenic Byway
Explore Nebraska’s Outlaw Trail Scenic Byway to experience friendly people, scenic sights and the history of Native American Tribes, outlaws, cowboys and pioneers. Filled with unique small towns and even more unique stops a road trip down Highway 12 is memorable for all!
Route Directions
From Valentine:
18 miles east on NE-12 to Sparks • 30 miles east on NE-12 to Springview
103 miles east on NE-12 to Niobrara • 28 miles east on NE-12 to Crofton
17 miles east on NE-12 to Wynot • 29 miles east on NE-12 to Ponca
Valentine
Begin your journey down the Outlaw Trail Scenic Byway in Valentine. Home to a nationally designated scenic river as well as Nebraska’s tallest waterfall, Smith Falls, Valentine has lots to love. If the outdoors aren’t calling your name grab a bite to eat at the Peppermill & E.K. Valentine Lounge, a restaurant spanning three generations committed to great Nebraska beef.
Springview
Springview may be small, but it is filled with culture. The Keya Paha County Historical Society holds more than a century of history from military displays to local history on display. Visit the Sawle Mill, Inc. to find locally created and sourced wooden creations from fireplace mantels to flooring.
Niobrara
Headquarters of the Ponca Tribe of Nebraska and home to Niobrara State Park, Niobrara has a rich history for visitors to explore. The Ponca Tribal Museum displays artifacts from Ponca history, American Indian artwork and pictures from the tribal archives. While the nearby Niobrara River allows for recreation activities such as tubing, kayaking, tanking and more!
Crofton
The self-proclaimed “Best Little Town by a Dam Site” due to its proximity to Lewis and Clark Lake, Crofton is a paradise for outdoors enthusiasts. Lewis and Clark Lake offers opportunities from equestrian, mountain biking, hiking, cross-country skiing, snowmobile trails, as well as water activities year-round. If the road trip is feeling long spend the night at the Historic Argo Hotel, built in 1912 it features a steakhouse and bar.
Ponca
Finish off your trip down the Outlaw Trail with a stop in Ponca. The fourth oldest town in Nebraska learn more about the history of the town at the Cook Blacksmith Shop & Historical Adams House Museum. This living history museum shows the history of American communities. Or connect with nature at Ponca State Park where visitors can participate in many naturalist-led activities such as horseback riding, kayaking and more.