Witness the world’s largest concentration of Sandhill Cranes from the banks of the Platte River in south-central Nebraska. Every year during March and early April over 500,000 Sandhill Cranes along with hundreds of thousands of ducks and geese converge on the Platte River Valley. There will be several opportunities to view the cranes. You will meet experienced staff guides of the Crane Trust Nature Center and Fort Kearny Historical State Park during this tour. Each of these sites are located right in the heart of this magnificent Sandhill Crane staging area where the birds can be viewed in the fields and in gatherings on their roosts along the Platte River. Meet the experienced staff guides of the Crane Trust Nature Center in Wood River, NE which provides a place where you can connect to nature along the Platte River. The spacious interpretive center offers exhibits on cranes, waterfowl, and endangered species. The center also includes the Crimson Crown Gift Ship and an art gallery highlighting Nebraska’s top photographic artists. There’s a 35-foot observation tower that offers a commanding view of the valley and the nearby herd of bison. Enjoy a tasty luncheon experience at Chances R restaurant. The grounds of Fort Kearny showcase the historical fort which includes a blacksmith-carpenter shop, powder magazine, and split stockade. Next, visit the Historical Campground site for watching the cranes. You’ll follow a 1/3-mile trail to a bridge that overlooks the Platte River to hear and see the cranes roosting for the evening at a distance. Bring comfortable shoes, a warm jacket, hat, and flashlight. Wear dark colored clothing so you won’t be spotted as easily by the Cranes. Be sure to bring your camera and binoculars to capture excellent views of the river and wildlife! You may bring snacks and coffee onboard with you for the morning drive. Cost paid to MCC is for bus transportation, the Chances R luncheon, tax, & gratuity, the Crane Trust and Center, the surprise stop and the Fort Kearny park fee. Bring money, including cash, for other meals and shopping. Our deluxe motor coach departs promptly at 10:00 a.m. from MCC Sarpy Center, 9110 Giles Road; park and meet the bus at the northeast parking lot. Return is approximately Midnight. No discount. Refunds will not be allowed within 14 days of the trip. Trip leader: Kevin Kowskie. Must be 18 or older.

Witness the world’s largest concentration of Sandhill Cranes from the banks of the Platte River in south-central Nebraska. Meet experienced staff guides of the Crane Trust Nature Center in Wood River, NE and Fort Kearny Historical State Park. Enjoy the visit to the overlook of the Platte River for crane evening crane watching, the Museum of Nebraska Arts, and a surprise stop, plus a tasty luncheon experience at Chances R Restaurant during your trip. Moderate Walking.