There’s never a bad time to go hiking in Nebraska; each season has something new and wonderful to offer. We’re coming up on the most colorful time of the year, and although there are numerous colorful hikes to enjoy, we’re highlighting one location along the Missouri River.
Indian Cave State Park is located in southeastern Nebraska not far from the little town of Shubert.
Google Maps
It’s right on the banks of the Missouri River and full of dense hardwood trees, rolling hills, and one of Nebraska’s most-visited natural attractions.
Flickr/John Carrel
That attraction is, of course, the cave for which the park is named.
Google Local/Milton McNeeLee
The “cave” is more of a sandstone overhang where Native Americans once took shelter.
Google Local/Milton McNeeLee
Ancient petroglyphs are visible in the rock face. An easy walk up the stairs from a small parking area will take you within viewing distance of the cave.
Google Local/Todd Steckelberg
While the views from the cave trail are lovely, it’s the view from the overlook trail that will really steal your heart this fall.
Google Local/Milton McNeeLee
Take the boardwalk out to the large overlook platform for a spectacular vista of the Missouri River and colorful trees as far as the eye can see.
Nebraska Tourism
If you prefer not to hike, you can park just a short distance from the overlook.
flickr/John Carrel
The trees are breathtaking in golds and reds, and the river in the distance completes this pretty-as-a-painting view.
flickr/John Carrel
Google Local/Brian Hightower
The overlook trail is definitely worth a visit, but there are more than 20 miles of trails to explore in this 3,000-acre park.
Nebraska Tourism
Nebraska Tourism
The park trails are rugged and, in places, a bit wild.
Google Local/Jacob Bandy
There are easier hikes and more challenging trails, so you can enjoy a day of foliage-viewing no matter your skill level.
Google Local/Jacob Bandy
Google Local/Scott Damery
Be sure to stop once in a while during your hike to take in the fall scenery around you. It’s truly a marvel, and it won’t last long.
Google Local/Christopher Cummins
The fall foliage will be at its peak in this part of the state around November 2 to November 9. You don’t have to wait until peak foliage to enjoy this park, though. The trees are ready for their close-up at any time.
Google Maps
Flickr/John Carrel
Google Local/Milton McNeeLee
Google Local/Todd Steckelberg
Nebraska Tourism
flickr/John Carrel
Google Local/Brian Hightower
Google Local/Jacob Bandy
Google Local/Scott Damery
Google Local/Christopher Cummins
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