Please see the map below. Park at the north edge, out of the way of trucks and other traffic while waiting for your guide. From here you will follow the guide for several miles in your own vehicle to the blind. The Plautz Viewing site is a free public viewing deck located on the river edge. Many people watch from road bridges that cross the Platte, creating a safety concern for viewers and those who use the roads and bridges during the crane season.
Parking is available at the viewing deck.
A trip to the blind is better but these decks are also a good place to view cranes at a distance. It is always cold in the morning and can get very cold in the evening quickly, so please prepare for the worst. You will be standing in an unheated blind for about 2 hours, dress VERY warmly. The warmest jacket and clothing you have, including warm underwear We have done this many times and it is easier to dress too warm and take it off than not dress warm enough. This information is valid for the year 2001.