crane trust nature & visitor center

scgalinsd

Having seen a national TV program on the migration of sand hill cranes in this area each spring, I stopped for a visit while crossing NE and am so glad I did despite the frigid temperature, snow covered ground and howling Nebraska winds. The center itself is rich with displays, information and videos. The receptionist is outstanding and very helpful. There also is a gift shop and snacks and beverages are available for purchase. Bundle up and take a walk on the trails. Climb the viewing tower for the vistas and to see the herd of bison from above. I can only imagine the level of activity and the views in the spring and summer. I will return.

mdhokenson

Recently stopped here for a walk and ended up spending over two hours on the trails. They have extensive walking trails through a variety of terrain. I was fortunate enough to see an eagle and a white tail deer. Would definitely recommend if you like hiking and/or a good nature walk. The visitors center was also quite interesting and the staff were very friendly.

DPD123

This is a wonderful stop. This spot on the Platt River is one you may have seen on a TV nature program. It represents a 40 mile swath between Alda and Kearney, NE in the spring migration pattern of Sandhill Cranes. This happens in March. Brrrrr.There are videos, lots and lots of literature, great staff and a lovely gift shop. Don't forget the donation box. It represents a great cause and helps insure that our children will be able to enjoy these amazing birds.

Jeanniebugk

Such a beautiful respite from the hustle and bustle of today's busy lives. I live just 45 miles from here and drive by it several times a month. I've always wanted to stop but had never found the time. This year, I made a date with my grown son and his 'Little Brother' to meet there for a day of exploring and a picnic. We had a great day!Come for a visit during sandhill crane season (Late Feb.-Apr.) and see the amazing spectacle of hundreds and thousands of cranes, geese, and ducks. Bring a picnic or stop in at their snack bar and enjoy your meal outside on their tables that overlook the meadows. It is an excellent place to take a walk as they have groomed trails that take you thru the meadow and up close to the Platte River. There is also an education center, art gallery, and gift shop. Just off the I-80 exit 305 near Alda, Nebraska.

Psychdrk

Very nice place to get education about the crane migration. Friendly, knowledgeable staff. Small set-up but adequate. Nice displays and good PBS video looping. Snacks and gifts available.

ElaineP945

wildlife is terrific. information is wonderful. people are nice and friendly. I treasure my pictures of the beautiful sunset

theguys_unlv

After a night of tent camping nearby we started the day out as the first visitors on this lovely Friday morning. The variety of flora and fauna is wonderful and the view from the observation tower is just a five-minute walk from the visitor's center. This is truly a stop worthy of your time. The buffalo are in their summer pasture so you have to head out onto the five miles of hiking trails. Bring your water bottle and bring your camera!

SBert-NE

Stopped in for a quick visit and walk along thbe trails. Saw lot of birds, and a deer running across the river. The Lady at the front desk was very friendly, made you feel like you were part of the family. Trails were nice and scenic. Wish we had more time. Next time I'll. Stop in when the cranes are here.

LG4158

I did the morning blind tour here the end of March to see the cranes. My biggest frustration was that I couldn't find the place in the dark. There is no lighted sign.I drove past it twice and finally stopped for directions. Ifelt like a fool when I saw it was literally 5 min off the interstate. So when you exit the interstate turn left and go over the viaduct....it's just to the left.They have you start off in the center for a brief overview about the cranes and some instructions.Then you have to drive maybe 2 miles down the road to an area on private land where you park and walk maybe 200 yards to the blind. Keep in mind that the blinds are unheated and you spend about 2 hours in them so dress accordingly. The morning I was there it was 20 degrees.Seeing that many birds is amazing and I was lucky enough to see a Whooping Crane (only 300 in the wild) and some bald eagles.I had a 300 zoom camera and it wasn't strong enough to see them in close detail. Bring some binocularsIt's $25 for the tour.

David_McCarthy

The annual migration of the sandhill cranes is phenomenal, and this is the place to start your visit. After you learn about these amazing birds, head down to the Alba bridge just before sunset.

JoRoOmaha

This nature center is a hidden gem located at Exit 305 on I-80. A short walk gets you to a channel of the Platte River. On your way you'll see their young bison herd. There's a cool observation tower that's about 25 feet tall so you get great views of the river valley. Two pedestrian bridges cross the river allowing you to hike the wet meadow prairie on the island to the south. The nature center offers dawn and evening tours during the Sandhill and whooping crane migration each spring. During the tours you stand on the south bridge and have cranes a short distance from you feeding both in the wet meadow and standing in the river. This is a bucket list experience. Since the nature center is right off Interstate 80, it is a great place to stop to stretch your legs and engage your mind on a trip across Nebraska. The Center recently changed it 's name to the Crane Trust Nature & Visitor Center.

nitewarrior

great place to go in the spring and view the cranes and other water fowl

CletusL

There is a good hiking trail that goes to the Platte River. Visitors from states far away visit this area.

CarouselRiot

Nothing to do there except bird watch. If that's your kind of thing (and apparently some people like to do it, because that's the only time we get tourists here) then go for it, but otherwise, try something else.