North Platte, Nebraska is famous as the home of Buffalo Bill Cody’s Wild West Circus. The 19th-century showman’s ranch has been converted into a tourist attraction, and next door, tour company Dusty Trails has set up a multitude of outdoor adventures to explore this protected area of the prairie. The most fitting way to explore this part of the old Wild West is by horseback on one of Dusty Trails’ tours.
There are two options for horseback riding tours: the short tour and the long tour. These are family-oriented excursions, but call ahead if you have concerns about the difficulty level.
Dusty Trails
Whichever horseback riding tour you choose, both explore Buffalo Bill’s Scout Rest Ranch and the banks of the North Platte River.
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Keep an eye out for wildlife while you’re enjoying the prairie view, especially for vibrant bird life.
Dusty Trails
In addition to horseback riding, Dusty Trails offers a variety of floating excursions on the North Platte River. Besides the usual kayak, canoe, and tube options, visitors can choose to float down the river in a metal stock tank. Whatever your vessel, you’ll be treated to scenic views.
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Not enough options yet? Dusty Trails offers bus tours to view sandhill cranes in their natural habitat. Along with large groups of cranes, you might also expect to see other wildlife such as prairie chickens and turkeys. Tour guides share helpful knowledge about these native creatures.
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While you’re there, you’ll want to check out the petting zoo full of sheep, baby goats, miniature ponies, and other farm animals.
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Dusty Trails also puts on seasonal events such as horse-drawn Christmas lights tours and a fall festival with lots of outdoor games and activities such as ax throwing and a hay slide. Check out its website to learn more about pricing and upcoming events.
Dusty Trails
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Have you taken a tour at Dusty Trails? Did you do a horseback tour or a river tour? Share your experience in the comments!
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Address: Dusty Trails, LLC, 2617 N Buffalo Bill Ave, North Platte, NE 69101, USA
