One of the greatest wildlife spectacles in North America, this gathering of cranes is the largest in the world. 

Duration: Approximately 16 hours

Cost: Blind (Capacity of 2 people) - $275

About
The Overnight Crane Photography Experience provides guests with the opportunity to spend the night in a viewing blind on the banks of the Platte River and photograph thousands of cranes as they fly into the river at dusk, and lift off at dawn.

Photographers and their gear will be transported to the blinds. Because of the close proximity of the cranes, guests must stay in the blind until a staff person or volunteer comes to get you the following morning. We place a high priority on minimizing disturbance to the cranes.

Because the tour involves wildlife, each experience is different. Rowe Sanctuary’s overnight blinds are strategically placed along the Platte River to provide excellent views of the Sandhill Cranes while they roost on the river, however, we cannot control the bird’s behavior. The viewing distance to the cranes will vary each day and night depending on where birds decide to roost. Viewing from the blind is the best possible chance to see this phenomenon up close! Regardless of roosting selection, cranes will be flying overhead and our tours consistently provide a one-of-a-kind experience in the heart of the world’s largest gathering of cranes.

Policies and information about blinds

• Blinds are 6 ft. H x 8 ft. W x 6 ft. D. and are carpeted. Window heights are designed for sitting.
• You are responsible for bringing the proper equipment to stay warm overnight. Temperatures in March and April regularly reach below freezing and blinds are not heated.
• You are required to remain in your overnight blind during the entire duration of the experience until your guide arrives the following morning, with the exception of medical emergencies. If you are not experienced at cold weather camping or do not have adequate gear, you should consider signing up for one of our morning or evening viewing trips instead.
• Each blind has a bucket toilet.
• Small red flashlights are provided and non-red lights are not allowed. No headlamps please.
• No heaters or stoves of any type.
• No alcoholic beverages or smoking allowed.
• Failure to cooperate with rules can result in a lifetime ban from this experience.
• Reservations are limited to 2 adults per blind.

What to Bring:
The following are strongly recommended:

• The warmest dark coat and clothing you have, including long underwear. Dress in layers, and bring extras.
• Warm footwear
• Wool or synthetic socks (avoid cotton)
• Very warm gloves or mittens
• Stocking cap or insulated hat
• A sleeping bag per person, suggested rating of 0 degrees.
• Foam or insulated sleeping pads
• Pillow
• Camp Chair
• Food and water
• Warm drinks in thermoses or insulated containers

Programming Considerations
Please be aware that ALL of our current programming is subject to change.

All tours will be cancelled and refunds given when the National Weather Service issues a hazardous Weather Warning.

Cancellations are refundable until two weeks prior to experience start date. Refunds are subject to a 5% cancellation fee.

Location:

All tours begin at the Iain Nicolson Audubon Center, at 44450 Elm Island Road, Gibbon, NE 68840.