Crane Trust Nature & Visitor Center

Crane Trust Nature & Visitor Center

Crane Trust Nature & Visitor Center
4.5
Visitor CentresArt GalleriesBodies of WaterNature & Wildlife AreasHiking Trails
09:00 - 16:00
Tuesday
09:00 - 16:00
Wednesday
09:00 - 16:00
Thursday
09:00 - 16:00
Friday
09:00 - 16:00
Saturday
09:00 - 16:00
About
The Crane Trust is a habitat conservation nonprofit organization located on the beautiful Platte River in South Central Nebraska. In addition to offering tours of one of the greatest migrations in the world, the Trust works year-round to protect and preserve nearly 10,000 acres of critical habitat for the endangered Whooping Cranes, Sandhill Cranes, and countless other species sharing fragile river and prairie ecosystems. Crane Trust Nature & Visitor Center is the public face of the Platte River Whooping Crane Maintenance Trust. The Nature & Visitor Center has nearly 10 miles of walking trails, a 35-foot observation tower, a bison herd, art gallery, gift shop, and informational exhibits. We also offer tourism information for the state of Nebraska. During the spring crane migration, we offer riverfront viewing blind tours to see cranes up close on their river roosts, plus driving maps of the area so visitors can see the cranes feeding in surrounding fields, wetlands.
Duration: 1-2 hours
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4.5
4.5 of 5 bubbles284 reviews
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Country Mama Musings
Iowa34 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Mar 2024 • Couples
Just returned from a trip to Nebraska to observe the 2024 Sandhill Crane Migration! We booked two spots for an early morning blind tour. We arrived at the Crane Trust early, @5:30am to be exact. Staff welcomed us inside shortly after we arrived. We checked in, confirming our reservation and observed the beautiful artwork for a few minutes before we assembled in their education room, where we were introduced to the volunteers that would be our guides for the morning, watched a short film about the Crane Trust, had a Q&A session, as well as a thorough run-down of Crane watching etiquette.

***use the restroom before leaving on a blind tour. There is NO opportunity to relieve yourself once you’re at the blinds***

We all carpooled to the Trust’s private observation blinds. Be prepared to walk a short distance along a maintained, dirt path. It can be uneven in spots, so just pay attention, and walk at a safe pace. The guides do have flashlights with red lens and can offer lighted assistance, if needed. Bring a walking stick, if needed. Wear good walking shoes. The walking distance is not far, and is manageable.
Once we entered the blinds, we observed the cranes in silence and we treated to a glorious sunrise! All participants were quiet, respectful of the aforementioned etiquette, and appreciated the experience. The guides interacted well within the group, quietly answering questions, and pointing out specific crane activity, additional bird sightings (in addition to the thousands of Sandhill Cranes, we were visited by a juvenile Bald Eagle AND a Whooping Crane; which were near extinction about 100 yrs ago)
Prepare to be standing still, and quiet, for long periods of time; appropriately 2.5 hours. The blinds do have 2-tiered seating along the back wall, but note that the upper seat can be a challenge to get up to as they are steep (but what a view…and there are handles affixed to the back wall to help with getting up/down, but if you have any physical limitations, this may pose a problem… however, the lower seat is quite attainable). At conclusion of our viewing time, we were escorted back to our vehicles, where one can decide to either return to the Trust’s main location or continue on with their day.
The outing to the blind was a wonderful experience, and is highly recommended. There are many other ways to observe the crane migration, both at sunrise and sunset, but one should treat themselves to the guided blind tour at least once in their lifetime.
We returned to the trust following our tour, and had some delicious freshly-baked cinnamon rolls and hot chocolate (much needed as we were chilled from the early morning adventure…and those rolls smelled delicious…and they were!…. In fact hubby went back for a second roll…lol)
While he ate his second roll, I was assisted by a volunteer in learning the art of folding an origami crane! Be sure to not only learn how to do this, but take the time to learn about the story of 1000 cranes! I didn’t read my flyer about 1000 cranes until our drive home, and now I’m regretting not buying the book that was available near the 1000 crane display… don’t pass this up… learn about it and consider getting the book ( yes, I can get the book online, but it would have meant more had I purchased it there…lesson learned)
Take the time to review the educational, interactive stations, peruse the gift shop, send a postcard to a friend or loved one, and head outside for the nature trail, bison, bridges, and observation tower; all beautiful.
Be sure to thank the volunteers; they’re passionate about their work towards preserving nature and wildlife there along the Platte River, and beyond. When visiting, you can support the Trust’s vision in any number of ways; donations, purchases, tours, memberships… any and all benefit the wildlife the Trust is dedicated to preserving.
Whether staying in the area, or just driving through along I-80, this is a worthwhile stop. Never pass up an opportunity to learn 😊
We look forward to returning during our travels.
Written 11 March 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for your thorough and positive review! You did your research and fully embraced the experience. We hope to see you again!
Written 18 March 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Ann M
Dubuque, IA41 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Mar 2024 • Couples
We did the VIP tour which included sunset and sunrise viewing, meals and lodging. This is a must-do lifetime experience of an amazing natural event. Staff are knowledgeable and personable, and they love what they are doing.
Written 11 March 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your positive review! It was truly a pleasure to meet you and share the experience!
Written 18 March 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Tukup
Omaha, NE116 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Jul 2023 • Family
A very nice outing. We saw several species of birds. It was too windy for butterflies, but we have seen and photographed many on other visits. Always a nice hike.
Written 19 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Don C
Dallas, TX37 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Mar 2023 • Couples
We stayed for the two nights at Crane Trust in order to watch the crane migration in November. It was amazing plus, the staff was very helpful and attentive. The meals were great too!
Written 13 April 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for joining us in March, and thank you for your positive review!
Written 5 May 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Alice C
132 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Mar 2023 • Couples
There are two choices available to see the Sand Hill Crane Migration. We chose the Crane Trust and were not disappointed. It was quite an adventure for two senior citizens. Let me tell you. We planned well in advance, and good that we did, because when I tried to change our hotel reservation a week in advance, not only were the rates higher but there was very little availability. So plan early. We booked this in January. The best time to see the birds is mid-March thru April.
The thing is it is very cold in Nebraska in March. So I recommend warm clothing in layers. Our reservation was for 6a.m. and we were asked to be there 15 minutes before. We had on long johns, hats, gloves, sweaters, boots, and heavy jackets. After a brief film and presentation in the museum, 15-20 minutes, we went to our cars and caravaned out to the field and Blind. We were told to drive very slow, and only have our parking lights on. It was dark! No lights and no sound. The birds were still sleeping out on the sand bars in the river. After parking, we walked about 1/4 mile to the blind. It was an enclosed wooden structure about 30 feet long and 6 feet deep, with plexiglass on the side facing the river. So we entered and stood side by side looking out toward the river. About 20 adults. Couldn/t see anything at first, but then as dawn began to break there was a rustling, all of a sudden hundreds of birds took flight. It was amazing! Everyone was excited. However, the guide told us that they were not the Cranes, they were Canadian Geese that also had spent the night there. Didn't matter to us, it was awesome! Then the guide explained that the Cranes were different. They would get up and move in smailer groups. Eventually they did, and we enjoyed watching each little group. We could see the movement on the sandbar by now, and observe the big birds waking up. We were there for about 2 1/2 hours. When it was time to go back to our cars, he advised us to button up because the wind chill was not below zero! They offered coffee and cinnamon rolls when we got back to the museum. It was a wonderful experience. I highly recommend it.
Written 3 April 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for spending time at Crane trust and for sharing your wonderful experience with us!
Written 5 April 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Alicia_JA
Chicago323 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Mar 2023
We were in Nebraska to specifically view sandhill cranes. We were actually on our way home when we decided to stop at CraneTrust. I am so glad we did. This place is an oasis in the midst of corn fields. It is beautiful and does a wonderful job at supporting efforts to protect sandhill cranes and other wildlife. The walls are covered in local art (I purchased a piece to take home) and they offer a short introductory video. The staff was kind, friendly, and helpful. The gift shop had the best selection of gifts we had found. I was so impressed by everytjing here, that I decided to purchase a membership and support it further.
Written 14 March 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for visiting and thank you SO much for joining as a member. We look forward to your next visit!
Written 5 April 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Kali T
Minneapolis, MN9 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Mar 2023 • Family
We visited the Crane Trust in the afternoon/evening March 9, 2023. We were promptly created by staff and told all about the birds and where to go to see them. We really hoped to be able see them go to roost relatively close, but they stayed away from the observation deck. My kids (9, 11, and 13) enjoyed the stop.
Written 10 March 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks for visiting and thanks for your positive review. We hope to see you again!
Written 5 April 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Sondra P
Littleton, CO239 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Mar 2023 • Couples
Absolutely amazing! We booked a VIP tour. They have really thought of everything. We learned so much , stayed in perfect accommodations, ate wonderful meals, and LOVED the birds!! The staff was incredible. Truly a must do for nature lovers. Thank you Crane Trust for your commitment to preserving our wildlife and resources.
Written 10 March 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for spending time with us and thank you for the glowing review. We hope to see you again sometime soon! -Amy
Written 5 April 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

krogersku
Johnston, IA581 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Mar 2022 • Family
Stopped here during the crane migration in March 2022. Very informative museum about the sandhill cranes and their migration. The crane migration is spectacular, would definitely recommend seeing this in person as videos or descriptions really don’t do it justice. We were able to watch from a small viewing deck by the river. Make sure you bring blankets and binoculars.
Written 30 December 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Rebecca Bianco
Lakewood, WA13 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Apr 2022 • Couples
Magnificent even though we arrived after the cranes had departed. Short trail to bridge across the Platte. The art work displayed is all outstanding. Loved the displays showing the many different varieties of ducks, especially exhibits displaying size comparisons between cranes (sandhill vs whooping, for example.) Amanda greeted us and shared tips about how to visit during the migration period; she also helped us package up three Rick Rasmussen photos we purchased.
The building is beautiful, the grounds well managed. The Crane Trust is clearly achieving its state purpose.
Written 5 May 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Bianco12515, Thank you for your wonderful review! We are thrilled you enjoyed your visit and were able to take home some of Rick Rasmussen's beautiful photos. We hope to see you next year for the great migration!
Written 24 May 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

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CRANE TRUST NATURE & VISITOR CENTER: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

Frequently Asked Questions about Crane Trust Nature & Visitor Center

Crane Trust Nature & Visitor Center is open:
  • Tue - Sat 09:00 - 16:00


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