Niobrara National Scenic River protects a 76-mile section of the Niobrara River in north-central Nebraska, set aside by Congress in 1991 under the National Wild and Scenic Rivers system. Known for prairie, wooded canyons, cliffs, and many waterfalls, it includes Smith Falls, Nebraska’s highest waterfall. The river is also a popular paddling route, especially along its western 26 miles, with some Class I and II rapids. Its greatest significance lies in an unusual ecological mix: more than 500 plant species and overlapping boreal, Rocky Mountain, eastern woodland, and prairie habitats support diverse wildlife, while historic bridges add cultural interest to this distinctive river landscape.