Hotels in Valentine, Nebraska

A little about Valentine...

Valentine is a city in Cherry County, Nebraska, United States. The population was 2,820 at the 2000 census. It is the county seat of Cherry County. Valentine is immediately north of the Niobrara River, on the northern edge of the Sandhills physiographic region. Merritt Reservoir, created by a dam on the Snake River, is located about 48 km (30 mi.) southwest of Valentine. Snake Falls, the largest falls in Nebraska, is located on the Snake River between the reservoir (a few miles downstream) and Valentine. Smith Falls, the tallest falls in Nebraska, is located on a small stream tributary to the Niobrara River about 15 miles east of Valentine in Smith Falls State Park.

Believe it or not, there are over 90 of them right here in the Valentine area! Smith Falls, the tallest waterfall in Nebraska, is located 15 miles east of Valentine off Highway 12 on the Niobrara River. Surrounded by paper birch, aspen, and ponderosa pine, a spring-fed creek tumbles 75 feet down a rock wall to create Smith Falls. The diversity of fauna and flora, combined with the beauty of the waterfall makes Smith Falls a truly unique Nebraska landmark.

Located 25 miles south of Valentine on Highway 83, the 71,500 acre refuge was established in 1935 to create a sanctuary and breeding area for migratory birds and a variety of wildlife. This oasis of tall grasses, productive marshes, and dozens of lakes in the midst of the Sandhills provides an excellent habitat for these animals.

Birdwatchers, wildlife observers and photographers hike the refuge trails to view over 260 species of birds and a unique mix of wildlife. Observation blinds are provided in the spring to view the dancing courtship displays of the prairie chicken and sharp-tailed grouse. Bald and golden eagles hunt the snow-covered refuge in winter. White-tailed and mule deer, beaver and muskrats, coyotes, raccoons, mink and weasels are part of the year-round spectacle that can be spotted in the meadows, marshes, lakes and hills of the refuge. Fishing and hunting for upland game, deer and waterfowl are provided on refuge grounds.