In Nebraska a discovery was made, A beautiful way to enjoy the quiet back roads, in this case the back rivers, tanking the Middle Loup River. Getting into a stock tank, floating down the river for a few hours on a Sunday afternoon sounded like a peaceful way to discover the Sand Hills of Nebraska. It exceeded our expectations.
Googling "Tanking Nebraska Sandhills" provides options of companies to choose from along with locations. We went with Glidden Canoe Rentals in Mullen, Nebraska as they accepted Sunday reservations. I'm glad we did as choosing to do this on a Sunday along with a September date we had no one else to share the river with.
So remote. The sounds, river water flowing, hawks screeching, wild turkey's flying right over us to cross the river, birds singing to each other, harmonizing with the crickets....absolute beauty.
Mullen, Nebraska, a small town in Western Nebraska won't have the resources experienced in a larger community but don't let that fool you. A convenience store can supply you with any snacks and drinks you may have forgotten. Lunch options are limited, however you can grab a decent hand breaded chicken strip meal at the Conoco.
Supplies for the trip: a cooler for drinks & if required a waterproof speaker for tunes while tanking. You may want to invest in a waterproof bag or carrier for you cell IF you worry about those items getting wet. We had those as well however no issues with those getting wet unless you get in and out of the tank during the float down the river. I could see how a larger group with four to each tank would be a great way to enjoy a day with friends. Just the four of us so one tank!
Note: Don't forget Mullen is in the Mountain Time Zone. We traveled from the east so we arrived a bit early. This wasn't an issue as with it being off season we were able to leave early. The staff with Glidden Canoes accommodating our needs without hesitation. Highly recommend!!
The tank cools immediately when placed into the river. Barefoot is the way to go to cool off, however invest in a cheap pair of water shoes as you will be required to get out if you don't maneuver the sandbars just right.
Cost for the afternoon adventure was $30 a person, paid at the meet location, the Sandhill Motel. From there you take a trip, following the van to the end location. From there you hitch the ride on the van to the start point. It's not a long path down the river but will take you just over two hours on the $30 option.
Glidden Canoe Rentals website:
The river is cool and so clear. Only obstacles to encounter are from you abilties to clear sandbars and fallen trees and the first bridge. That bridge barely clears the river. We were told to lay down but of course we did at the last minute. The tank barely clears the bridge so beware!!
Watch out for the first bridge!! When you're told to lay down in the tank.....LAY DOWN!!!!
The beauty of the Middle Loup River. Our day was sunny, upper 80's, when we did catch a break with shade or a cloud it was appreciated. The late summer sun did get a bit hot at times. The water cooled us off fast.
Go out and enjoy Nebraska! A stop at the right place will expand your travel. Take that back road....the back river! Jennifer & Danyle
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