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Soldier Creek Trail

Nebraska National Forest, Nebraska · 3 min read

Distance
6 mi
Elevation Gain
500 ft
Difficulty
moderate
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
April through October
Est. Time
2.5-3.5 hours
Dog Friendly
Yes
Kid Friendly
No
Difficulty Score
5 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
None
Parking
Free
Cell Service
No Signal
Water
Nearby
Camping
Dispersed
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Soldier Creek, a perennial stream flowing year-round through pine and cedar canyon
  • Historical connection to Fort Robinson, the last Army post in the Nebraska panhandle
  • Canyon geology showing the sedimentary layers of the White River Group
  • Wild turkey and mule deer commonly seen in the cedar and pine habitat
  • Quiet trail with minimal visitor traffic even on summer weekends
riverwildlifehistoric siteviews

Overview

Soldier Creek cuts through the Pine Ridge escarpment near the Nebraska-South Dakota border, carving a narrow canyon through cedar breaks and ponderosa pine that has a genuinely wild character for such a accessible location. The 6-mile out-and-back follows the creek upstream through canyon terrain, gaining 500 feet gradually on a trail that is relatively quiet even by the generally uncrowded standards of Nebraska National Forest.

The creek runs year-round fed by groundwater in the Pine Ridge, which gives the canyon a riparian character unexpected in the Nebraska panhandle. Wild turkey are frequently heard and seen in the cedar thickets, and mule deer use the canyon as a travel corridor year-round.

The trail is suitable for horseback riders as well as hikers. No permit is required.

The Route

Miles 0 to 2: Lower canyon. The trail begins near the forest road and immediately enters the cedar and ponderosa canyon. The first two miles follow the creek closely, crossing it three times on stone-hop crossings or footlogs. The canyon walls rise 100 to 150 feet above the creek in the tightest sections. Wild turkey sign (tracks, feathers, droppings) is abundant throughout the lower canyon.

Miles 2 to 3: Upper canyon. The canyon broadens slightly in the upper section and ponderosa pine becomes more dominant. The creek narrows and the crossings become easier as the trail approaches its turnaround near a forest road junction at mile 3.

When to Hike

April and May: The canyon is green and lush, and wildflowers bloom on the shaded north-facing canyon walls. Creek crossings are the most challenging in these months.

June through August: Dry and warm. Turkey chicks follow hens through the cedar thickets in June and early July. Creek levels drop to their lowest, making crossings easy.

September and October: Mule deer rut begins in October. Hunting season starts; wearing blaze orange is recommended.

What to Bring

Many hikers carry 1.5 liters of water. The creek is available but requires treatment. For horseback riders: check with the ranger district for current crossing conditions and any temporary closures.

Trailhead Access

From Crawford on US-20, take NE-2 west toward Fort Robinson, then follow FR-708 south from the state park entrance. The trailhead is about 6 miles from US-20 on gravel road.

Nearby

Fort Robinson State Park, just north of the trailhead, is worth a half-day visit for its Nebraska panhandle history interpretation. The Pine Ridge Trail provides a ridge-top option in the same northern unit of Nebraska National Forest. Follow Leave No Trace principles in this quiet canyon, particularly when near the creek.

Trailhead Parking

Soldier Creek Trailhead on FR-708, about 6 miles south of Fort Robinson State Park. Gravel pullout. No fee. No facilities at trailhead.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the historical connection to Fort Robinson?
Soldier Creek flows past the site of Fort Robinson, the former U.S. Army post where Oglala Lakota leader Crazy Horse was killed in 1877. The creek and surrounding canyon were used by Army troops stationed at the fort. Fort Robinson State Park, a few miles north, interprets this history and is worth combining with a Soldier Creek hike.
Are there creek crossings on the trail?
Yes, several crossings are required along the route. They are typically shallow (ankle to calf deep) in normal water conditions, but can be knee-deep in May and June after snowmelt. Waterproof boots or crossing shoes are recommended for spring visits.
Is this trail suitable for horseback riding?
Yes. The Pine Ridge unit allows equestrian use on most trails, including the Soldier Creek Trail. Equestrian visitors should be aware of the creek crossings and confirm current trail conditions with the Pine Ridge Ranger District before a long ride.