Salt Creek in Nebraska

by  guest-paddler

A self-supported trip created by guest-paddler

Trip Overview

Well, the water levels were low as it was July. But this would be a decent run between March and June - especially if we have a nice rainy spring.

I "put in" under a bridge on South 14th, south of Pine Lake Road. Follow 14th South past the Jamaica North Bike Trail. There is an entrance to Wilderness Park - it is poorly marked, nothing more than a parking lot.

There are plenty of trails along the creek, but none that lead you to the edge of it. Putting in and getting out were something of a challenge. And that's an understatement. Go alone only if you are strong enough to literally pull your kayak up a 60 degree incline over muddy rock.

Once on the water, though, most of the paddle was quite nice even with the low water. It was heavier early in the run and got shallower as I reached the end. Tons of wildlife...a large fish that leaps from the water to feed, large turtles, herons, wild turkeys, deer...it was awesome. Flowing north along winding curves, it was an adventure.

There were places where the creek was blocked completely however. Downed trees literally blocked the creek in places that were 40 feet wide. Perhaps due to low water, and perhaps unavoidable, I had to portage the kayak over these trees at times...so be prepared to get wet.

Anyway, there were only two places to get out...only one of which was accessible by car. The first was near a crossing close to Warlick boulevard. You can get out, again under the first bridge you encounter about 2 hours and 30 minutes in. Its a bike trail. Getting your kayak to a vehicle would be a significant challenge.

Where I actually got out was about four hours plus in to the trek. Another entrance to Wilderness park is West of 14th Street off of Old Cheney, north of Highway 77. A trail from the parking lot leading south for not 20 yards will take you to a bridge. Here, it is physically possible to push and pull your kayak up that 60 degree incline I mentioned.

All in all, doable, but slow in July, I think this would have been great fun in May...all except the impassable spots. The wilderness is beautiful; I think I may place a call or two to see if there is city interest in outfitting for spring runs.

I hope someone finds this helpful someday.

Fees:

None

Directions:

I "put in" under a bridge on South 14th, south of Pine Lake Road. Follow 14th South past the Jamaica North Bike Trail. There is an entrance to Wilderness Park - it is poorly marked, nothing more than a parking lot.

Resources:

Google Maps did not accurately show the location of this creek. It shows that it is "split", but in fact flows continuously.

Trip Details

  • Trip Duration: Day Trip
  • Sport/Activity: Kayaking, Canoeing
  • Skill Level: Beginner
  • Water Type: River/Creek (Up to Class II)

Trip Location