New program offers adventure, prizes

Lace up your hiking boots and get ready for a summer full of adventure.

We invite you to take part in Your Parks Adventure: Trail Trek, a fun outdoor challenge that allows you to explore Nebraska and reap the benefits of being active. And... possibly win some prizes for your adventures. The program features over 45 trail locations across the state, so there are plenty of opportunities to participate.

When you visit a designated trail, your goal is to locate the Your Parks Adventure sign featuring Kit the Raccoon, snap a selfie and submit it online for a chance at prizes.?

The more trails you visit, the more chances you have to win something ? including the grand prize, which includes outdoor gear, a two-night cabin stay at a Nebraska state park, a subscription to Nebraskaland Magazine and more.

Many thanks to the Nebraska Recreation and Park Association, who helped Nebraska Game and Parks launch this program, and our sponsor Papio Missouri River Natural Resources District.

Your Parks Adventure begins today and concludes Oct. 31. We hope you join us on this new adventure!

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State parks expanding activities this weekend

Each year, additional opportunities for outdoor fun open up over Memorial Day weekend, as Nebraska's state parks prepare for the busiest time of year. This year is no exception.

This weekend, horseback rides, pools and paddleboat rentals will become available at select state parks, as well as an array of additional activities, depending on the park, such as:?

• Chadron State Park: Paddleboats; trading post with food, ceramics and crafts; shooting complex with tomahawks, archery and pellet guns; pool; horse trail rides
• Eugene T. Mahoney State Park: Mini golf, driving range,?melodramas, pool, paddleboats, arts and crafts center, activity center summer hours
• Fort Robinson State Park: Restaurant, jeep rides, trail rides, historical horse-drawn tours, stagecoach rides, pony rides, pool, tubing, kayak/bike rentals, activity center and sutler store
• Niobrara State Park: Pool, horseback rides, buffalo cookout. The buffalo cookout will be at 6 p.m. on May 25 at the Buffalo Cookout Pavilion, with a meal and activity; cost is $12 for adults and $8 for children.
• Platte River State Park: Marina with ice cream, food and paddleboats; Saturday steak nights from 4-8 p.m.; Sunday buffet from 8 a.m.-2 p.m., horseback rides, shooting range, spray park, free naturalist activities
• Ponca State Park: Outdoor education programs, pool, horseback riding.

Note that delays are possible, depending on weather and other factors, so call ahead of your visit to check that activities are going forward. See details on pricing at the link below.

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