Section of Dismal River impassable

The section of the Dismal River between the Seneca bridge and the Jameson bridge in Thomas County was reported to the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission as impassable due to log jams.

Downed trees have fallen into the river within steep canyons, creating large blockages and unsafe conditions for kayakers and canoers along this 12-river-mile stretch.

Game and Parks recommends those choosing to paddle the river enter at the put-in at Highway 97, south of Mullen, and exit the river at the Seneca bridge; this is about 15 river miles.

Game and Parks does not own or manage any segment of the river for recreational use and cannot guarantee conditions along the other segments of the Dismal River trail. Much of the land along the river is privately-owned.

Paddlers are reminded that riverbeds and all adjacent lands are the property of the landowner through which the water flows. They also should follow the following safety guidance, no matter which water trail they are paddling:

• Wear a life jacket and sunscreen.
• Stay hydrated.
• Pack a first aid kit and tether ropes.
• If you capsize, avoid the downstream side of the canoe.
• In an emergency, call 911. Know that many stretches of river trails are in remote locations without cell phone service. Be prepared and tell someone your travel plans before you hit the water.