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While eroded and hilly, this trail offers a pleasant experience through field and forest on its way to Indian Cave.


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Map Key

7.1

Miles

11.4

KM

Point to Point

1,235' 376 m

High

965' 294 m

Low

605' 184 m

Up

796' 243 m

Down

4%

Avg Grade (2°)

29%

Max Grade (16°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Cave · Fall Colors · River/Creek · Views

Family Friendly This trail's short length and abundance of campsites makes it a perfect option for a kid-friendly backpacking trip. The low mileage will keep their spirits high and leave plenty of time for camp fun!

Description

While this rough trail can feel like it was designed specifically for horses (due to its erosion and steep inclines), it does offer great solitude amongst old hardwood forests as you make your way to Indian Cave and pleasant views of the Missouri River.

Along the way, expect a mixed tread of primarily doubletrack that will encounter numerous offshoot trails that head to the area's vast number of campsites and Adirondack-style Lean-Tos.

Upon reaching the eastern end of the trail at the day-use area, follow the road northwest for a short distance to access the staircase to Indian Cave.

Flora & Fauna

Experience this trail in autumn to see its hardwood forests erupt in fiery fall color.

Contacts

Land Manager: Nebraska Game and Parks

Shared By:

Ben Force

Trail Ratings

  3.5 from 4 votes

#24456

Overall
  3.5 from 4 votes
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Trail Rankings

#30

in Nebraska

#24,456

Overall
3 Views Last Month
621 Since Apr 12, 2017
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Photos

This is one of the Adirondack shelters in Indian Cave State Park.
Apr 12, 2017 near Falls City, NE
You'll encounter many hills on the Hardwood Trail.
Apr 12, 2017 near Falls City, NE
Looking back toward the campsite, enjoy this pleasant view.
Apr 12, 2017 near Falls City, NE
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Weather


Current Trail Conditions

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Check-Ins

Apr 27, 2019
David Jacobs
5.5mi
Aug 19, 2018
Tony Mascarello
Mar 30, 2018
Adam Gilfillan
SDO Friday, good place to hike and camp
Apr 10, 2017
Ben Force
My wife's first backpacking trip! 13.2mi — 24h 00m
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