Sandhills travel guide

Sandhills travel guide

National Airports

The Sandhills region of Nebraska is a relatively rural area, and there are no national airports located directly in the region. However, visitors can access the Sandhills region via several airports located in nearby cities. Here are some of the closest airports to the Sandhills region:

North Platte Regional Airport (LBF): Located approximately 100 miles south of the Sandhills region, the North Platte Regional Airport is the closest airport with commercial air service. The airport offers daily flights to Denver and connections to other destinations.

Kearney Regional Airport (EAR): Located approximately 120 miles east of the Sandhills region, the Kearney Regional Airport offers daily flights to Denver and connections to other destinations.

Central Nebraska Regional Airport (GRI): Located approximately 130 miles east of the Sandhills region, the Central Nebraska Regional Airport offers daily flights to Denver and connections to other destinations.

Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP): Located approximately 250 miles northwest of the Sandhills region, the Rapid City Regional Airport offers daily flights to several major cities, including Denver, Chicago, and Dallas.

It’s important to note that visitors will need to rent a car or arrange for transportation to the Sandhills region once they arrive at the airport, as there are no public transportation options available within the region.

Trains in Sandhills

The Sandhills region of Nebraska is a relatively rural area, and there are no passenger train services that directly serve the region. However, visitors can take a train to nearby cities and then rent a car or arrange for transportation to the Sandhills region. Here are some of the closest train stations to the Sandhills region:

North Platte Amtrak Station: Located approximately 100 miles south of the Sandhills region, the North Platte Amtrak Station is the closest train station with passenger service. Amtrak’s California Zephyr and Southwest Chief both stop at this station, offering connections to major cities such as Chicago, Denver, and San Francisco.

Kearney Amtrak Station: Located approximately 120 miles east of the Sandhills region, the Kearney Amtrak Station is another option for visitors. Amtrak’s California Zephyr also stops at this station, offering connections to major cities.

It’s important to note that visitors will need to rent a car or arrange for transportation to the Sandhills region once they arrive at the train station, as there are no public transportation options available within the region.

Buses in Sandhills

The Sandhills region of Nebraska is a relatively rural area, and there are no public bus services that directly serve the region. However, visitors can take a bus to nearby cities and then rent a car or arrange for transportation to the Sandhills region. Here are some of the closest bus stations to the Sandhills region:

North Platte Greyhound Station: Located approximately 100 miles south of the Sandhills region, the North Platte Greyhound Station is the closest bus station with regular service. Greyhound buses stop at this station, offering connections to major cities such as Denver, Omaha, and Chicago.

Kearney Trailways Station: Located approximately 120 miles east of the Sandhills region, the Kearney Trailways Station is another option for visitors. Trailways buses stop at this station, offering connections to major cities.

It’s important to note that visitors will need to rent a car or arrange for transportation to the Sandhills region once they arrive at the bus station, as there are no public transportation options available within the region.

How to get to Sandhills

The Sandhills region of Nebraska is a relatively rural area, and there are several ways to get there depending on where you are coming from. Here are some common options:

By car: The most convenient way to get to the Sandhills region is by car. Interstate 80 runs east-west through Nebraska and provides access to several highways that lead to the Sandhills region. Highways 2, 20, and 83 are some of the major roads that run through the region.

By plane: Visitors can fly into several airports located in nearby cities, such as the North Platte Regional Airport (LBF), Kearney Regional Airport (EAR), or Central Nebraska Regional Airport (GRI). Once you arrive at the airport, you can rent a car or arrange for transportation to the Sandhills region.

By train: Visitors can take a train to nearby cities such as North Platte or Kearney, and then rent a car or arrange for transportation to the Sandhills region. Amtrak’s California Zephyr and Southwest Chief both stop in North Platte, and the California Zephyr also stops in Kearney.

By bus: Visitors can take a bus to nearby cities such as North Platte or Kearney, and then rent a car or arrange for transportation to the Sandhills region. Greyhound and Trailways both offer service to these cities.

It’s important to note that once you arrive in the Sandhills region, you will need a car or other transportation to get around, as there is no public transportation available.

What is the best time to travel to Sandhills

The best time to travel to Sandhills depends on your interests and what you want to do. Here are some things to consider:

Weather: The Sandhills region has a semi-arid climate, with hot summers and cold winters. The best time to visit in terms of weather is generally from May through September, when temperatures are warmer and there is less chance of precipitation. However, if you enjoy cooler temperatures and winter activities such as snowmobiling or ice fishing, then the winter months can also be a good time to visit.

Outdoor activities: The Sandhills region is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, fishing, hunting, birdwatching, and more. The best time to visit for outdoor activities will depend on the specific activity you are interested in. For example, the best time for birdwatching is typically in the spring and fall, while the best time for fishing may be in the summer months.

Events and festivals: There are several events and festivals that take place in the Sandhills region throughout the year, such as the Sandhills Cattlemen’s Association Trade Show and Convention in February, the Nebraska Star Party in July, and the Sandhills Open Road Challenge in August. If you are interested in attending one of these events, then you may want to plan your visit accordingly.

Overall, the best time to travel to Sandhills is during the warmer months from May through September, when the weather is more conducive to outdoor activities. However, the specific time to visit will depend on your interests and what you want to do while you are there.

How to get around Sandhills

The Sandhills region of Nebraska is a relatively rural area, and there are limited public transportation options available. The most convenient way to get around Sandhills is by car. Visitors can rent a car from one of the nearby airports or from one of the car rental companies in the region.

If you prefer not to drive, there are a few other options available:

Shuttle services: There are a few shuttle services available in the Sandhills region, such as Sandhills Shuttle Service and Sandhills Express. These services offer transportation to and from the major cities and airports in the area.

Taxi services: There are a few taxi services available in the Sandhills region, but they may be limited and may not be available in all areas.

Biking or hiking: If you enjoy biking or hiking, there are several trails and routes in the Sandhills region that are accessible without a car. However, be aware that the distances between towns and attractions can be quite large, so plan accordingly.

It’s important to note that the Sandhills region is relatively sparsely populated and many attractions and amenities are spread out over a large area, so having a car will give you the most flexibility and independence to explore the region at your own pace.

Accommodations in Sandhills

There are a variety of accommodations available in the Sandhills region, including hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and cabins. Here are some options to consider:

Hotels and Motels: There are several chain hotels and motels located in larger towns throughout the Sandhills region, including Comfort Inn in Valentine, Holiday Inn Express in Broken Bow, and Cobblestone Inn & Suites in O’Neill.

Bed and Breakfasts: There are several bed and breakfasts located throughout the Sandhills region, including the Sandhills Guest House in Mullen and the Trade Winds Lodge in Halsey. These offer a more personalized and unique experience, with amenities such as home-cooked breakfasts and cozy rooms.

Cabins and Campgrounds: If you prefer a more rustic experience, there are several cabins and campgrounds located throughout the Sandhills region. Some popular options include the Bessey Recreation Complex in Halsey, where visitors can rent cabins or camp in tents or RVs, and the Cedar Creek Cabin in Valentine, which offers a secluded and scenic retreat.

It’s important to note that accommodations in the Sandhills region can fill up quickly during peak season, so it’s recommended to book in advance to ensure availability.