08/25/2026
https://www.facebook.com/share/1CQSDXiGoN/
All-terrain wheelchairs now available at Smith Falls State Park
VALENTINE, Neb. — People who struggle with mobility will now have an easier time seeing Nebraska’s tallest waterfall.
Smith Falls State Park now has two all-terrain wheelchairs available for visitors, according to the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.
The park has one chair designed for adults and another for children. The GRIT chairs are lever-driven, all-terrain wheelchairs equipped with mountain-bike wheels, seat belts, removable seatbacks, adjustable footrests and trail handles for additional support.
“Whether you’re visiting the falls, exploring the park, or simply enjoying time outdoors with family and friends, we want everyone to have the opportunity to experience this special place,” said Cody Niewohner, park superintendent.
The chairs are available at no cost on a first-come, first-served basis. Visitors will need to provide photo identification to check one out, and park staff will help users learn how to operate the chairs.
Visitors can stop by the park office to check out a chair. Through September, office hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday.
Beginning Oct. 1, the chairs will be available for checkout whenever park staff is present.
Smith Falls State Park is located east of Valentine and is home to Nebraska’s highest waterfall. The falls can be reached by a boardwalk that complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
The park is also a popular destination for camping, wildlife watching and visitors exploring the Niobrara National Scenic River.
