James’ hideout is just one of a handful of western bad boy stories that contributed to the name behind the Outlaw Trail scenic highway that runs along Highway 12, from Ponca to Valentine.
As part of several art murals you’ll find along the Outlaw Trail, Crofton has a nice mural depicting the area’s history, including a look at old Crofton, with the Missouri River flowing next to it.
Nearby Niobrara is home to Niobrara State Park, which offers outstanding views of where the Niobrara and Missouri Rivers meet.
While the Valentine area is packed with history and trails, such as the Cowboy Trail, which is the longest trail in the state, running along a former rail route between Norfolk and Valentine.