Julie Geiser
Public Information Officer | julie.geiser@nebraska.gov | 308.535.8025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Sandhill Crane Viewing Opportunities in the North Platte area

NORTH PLATTE -- Viewing Sandhill cranes can be done by driving highways and backroads, but a few safer alternatives have been made available to the public by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.

Buffalo Bill State Recreation Area (SRA) has several locations to view cranes from that are easily accessible from a vehicle by pulling over to the side of the road on SRA property. Cranes have been utilizing the meadows on either side of the road. There is also a designated pull-off area near the west end of the SRA where signs about cranes can be read and viewing can be done from a vehicle.

A river blind is available for viewing cranes flying along the North Platte River. This blind requires a small hike on a path adjacent to the river from the camping area; users will follow the path heading east. A 2016 Park permit is required on the SRA.

A horse trailer blind sits along the fence at the corner of Charlie Evans Drive and Scouts Rest Ranch Road overlooking a meadow frequently used by cranes. Cranes use this area several times throughout the day; blind users will need to park and walk staying behind the blind to avoid scaring cranes off the meadow.  A parking area is located a few steps east of the trailer.    

A new crane viewing blind has been established at North River Wildlife Management Area (WMA).

The blind is located at the east end of the WMA. From Hershey drive north on North Hershey Road 3 miles to Wildlife Road, turn right and go almost 2 miles east on the gravel. The parking lot is on the south side of the road. 

Getting to the blind requires a half-mile hike from the parking lot over mostly level terrain but water resistant footwear is recommended. The blind has room for about eight adults. Crane viewing etiquette is listed along with a map and designated path to the blind at the parking area and in the blind.

All the viewing areas are first-come-first-served. The public should dress accordingly for the weather and abide by crane viewing etiquette.

1. Stay in the blind or vehicle.
2. Do not approach or harass birds.
3. No camera flash or lights from phones/tablets during low-light times.
4. Get to the blind before birds land in the evenings and do not leave until dark at night.
5. Morning users should arrive in time to get to the blind before the sky starts to lighten up and plan on staying until all cranes leave the river.
6. Be courteous to other crane watchers.
7. Always stay on designated paths and do not cross property boundary onto private land.

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