Indian Cave ends trail rides, makes way for shooting range

Wrangler-guided horseback trail rides at Indian Cave State Park in southeast Nebraska will be discontinued beginning with the 2024 season, while alternative recreational opportunities are developed.

The decision was based on the program’s lack of financial sustainability and staffing shortages. The rising costs of horses and corresponding care, including feed, veterinarian supplies, farrier work and fencing materials, have outpaced the declining number of riders each season and the subsequent revenues they bring in. Finding adequate staff with equestrian experience also is a challenge.

The park’s horses will be transferred to other state parks areas that offer guided trail rides to the public and will be working members of those trail ride teams. Indian Cave’s 16 miles of equestrian trails, as well as its equestrian campground, will continue to be maintained for guests who travel with their own horses.

“We understand this activity has been enjoyed by our visitors for many years, and we know change can be hard,” said Kevin Holliday, state parks Southeast Regional Superintendent. “But we look forward to sharing new opportunities with park guests at Indian Cave, while maintaining other old favorites.”

The park, known for its cave featuring prehistoric Native American petroglyphs, its seasonal events, iconic trees and wildlife, also offers shooting sports, such as an outdoor archery range and black powder demonstrations. The park will build upon these popular programs with plans to add an indoor archery range and air gun shooting gallery, complete with moving targets, for guests to enjoy.

The new shooting facility will be built with federal grant funding and will utilize the existing horse barn and adjacent parking lot. Once fully developed, the building will be capable of hosting hunter education classes and other outdoor educational opportunities. Plans call for development of the shooting facility to begin later this year.

For those seeking equestrian opportunities, trail rides — offered either by Nebraska Game and Parks or by contracted vendors — still will be offered at Chadron, Eugene T. Mahoney, Fort Robinson, Niobrara, Platte River and Ponca state parks and at Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park.

Find additional outdoor recreation opportunities at OutdoorNebraska.gov/parks/find-a-park.