When you think of Nebraska, you might picture vast prairies, rolling hills, and endless open skies. Nebraska’s Legendary Highway 2 offers a chance to experience all of that and more. Stretching 272 miles from Grand Island to Alliance, this scenic byway takes you through the heart of the state’s Sandhills region, offering breathtaking views, unique wildlife, and a chance to connect with the land like never before. Highway 2 is the perfect route for your next road trip.
Why You Should Drive Highway 2
Highway 2 isn’t just a road—it’s a journey through Nebraska’s most beautiful and untouched landscapes. The route showcases a variety of natural wonders that will make you stop, stare, and take in the view. Here are just a few highlights you’ll encounter along the way:
- The Sandhills: This area is unlike anywhere else in the country. The rolling dunes and grassy plains stretch out as far as the eye can see. The Sandhills is a rare and stunning ecosystem, and driving along Highway 2 gives you an up-close look at its expansive beauty.
- The Nebraska National Forest: The Pine Ridge and Bessey Ranger Districts of the Nebraska National Forest are perfect for hiking, wildlife watching, and connecting with nature. The forest’s unexpected trees and striking rock formations make it an ideal stop for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Starry Nights: With little light pollution, Highway 2 offers some of the best stargazing in the country. Whether you’re an astronomy enthusiast or just someone who loves a clear sky, you’ll be amazed by the view of the stars overhead.
Stop in Mullen: A Hidden Gem
As you venture along Highway 2, make sure to stop in Mullen, a charming town in the heart of Nebraska’s Sandhills. Mullen is the gateway to some of the state’s most stunning landscapes and is the perfect place to take a break, stretch your legs, and explore. But what sets Mullen apart is its proximity to Glidden Canoe Rentals, offering an experience that’s as unique as the town itself.
Tanking in Mullen: An Adventure on the Middle Loup River
If you’re looking for a memorable outdoor experience, make time to visit Glidden Canoe Rentals, just outside of Mullen. Glidden offers a variety of canoeing and tanking adventures on the Middle Loup River, a peaceful waterway surrounded by the rolling Sandhills.
Tanking is a fun Nebraska tradition that allows you to float down the river in a large, flat-bottomed tank (think of it as an oversized raft). It’s the perfect way to relax, take in the surrounding beauty, and enjoy the river at a leisurely pace.
For those who prefer a more active experience, Glidden Canoe Rentals also offers traditional canoeing options on the Middle Loup River. You can paddle your way along the river’s winding path, enjoying the tranquility and spotting wildlife like birds, deer, and other animals in the area.
Why Stop in Mullen?
Aside from its water activities, Mullen itself is a peaceful town that embodies the spirit of Nebraska’s Sandhills. It’s the perfect place to relax after a day of canoeing or tanking. Grab a meal at a local diner, wander through town, or simply take in the quiet beauty of the plains around you.
A Road Trip to Remember
Whether you’re just driving through or making a weekend getaway out of it, a trip down Nebraska’s Legendary Highway 2 is a fun way to welcome early Summer. From the serene Sandhills to the starry night skies and the chance to explore the unique Middle Loup River with the team at Glidden Canoe Rental, this route will leave you with lasting memories.
Pack your bags, put on your adventure hat, and hit the road—Nebraska’s Legendary Highway 2 is waiting for you!