By Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands
CHADRON, Neb. — Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands will host National Trails Day events on June 6 at the Nebraska National Forest’s Bessey Ranger District in Halsey, Neb. and at Buffalo Gap National Grassland’s Fall River Ranger District in Hot Springs, S.D. At the Bessey Ranger District, Forest Service staff will share the importance of trail stewardship and the ethics of “leave no trace.” The event hosted by the Fall River Ranger District offers participants the chance to help develop a new trail near the agate beds at French Creek Campground. The trail is a roughly 2‑mile loop that participants can hike with Buffalo Gap National Grassland recreation staff. Afterward, participants will have the opportunity to provide feedback. More information about the Buffalo Gap event is available on the event page.
The hard work of Forest Service employees, partners and volunteers helps ensure the safety and accessibility of the National Forest System. Between National Trails Day on June 6 and National Public Lands Day on Sept. 26, Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands is marking a season of stewardship by encouraging the public to take part in volunteer opportunities on their local national forest or grassland. The Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands extend thanks to those who have already volunteered this year.
Those interested in ongoing stewardship are encouraged to participate in the Forest Service’s Adopt-A-Trail program, which engages individuals and organizations in trail maintenance and expands the agency’s capacity to care for public lands. If you have any questions, please contact the appropriate Ranger District via phone, or email at SM.FS.nnf_info@usda.gov.
If you are unable to join our staff-led events on National Trails Day, you can still enjoy your public lands! The Forest Service is designating June 6, 2026, as an additional recreation fee free day to the 2026 calendar, meaning all standard amenity recreation sites on Forest Service lands will be at no cost to the public. Fee-Free Day benefits apply only to standard amenity recreation fees and does not waive expanded amenity fees, concessionaire charges, reservation fees, special recreation permit fees, or third-party costs unless separately authorized.
For more information on upcoming events, contact our district offices.
Bessey Ranger District: 308-533-2257
Fall River Ranger District: 605-745-4107