Niobrara to Valentine

This morning I drove west to Valentine, NE. There was yet another high wind advisory. I guess this is just part of living on the plains - no windbreaks. This is pretty remote country - on the plus side no tolls as there are no improved roads. (The toll rant will wait for another time.) Much of the way was dirt or gravel roads with farmland on both sides.

I stopped at Smith Falls State Park and braved the winds to walk out to the falls. By the time I got there it was midday and I was fighting the sun. I did the best I could (see photo below), but if I have time tomorrow I might give it another try earlier or later in the day. It is a pretty short walk on paved paths and a couple of suspension bridges. Similarly, I stopped at the Fort Niobrara Scenic Overlook, but captured only a pedestrian shot. That location is also easy to get to, so may merit another stop tomorrow. The winds are predicted to subside, so that should also help.

I plan to visit the scenic and wildlife areas in this vicinity tomorrow.