Science would call a Nebraska sunset what it is – the earth rotating on its axis, moving the northern hemisphere’s source of light deep below the horizon for another day. One more trip around Earth’s axis. The brilliant colors that blanket the sky at this time of the evening are simply molecules in the atmosphere, changing the direction of light rays.

This phenomenon is called “scattering.” Nebraskans also call it magic.

No matter the set up for sundown, be it the rolling Sandhills, the winding Niobrara River, field corn flats that power one of the state’s biggest industries, or a Nebraska backyard, there is little other explanation needed. The feeling that begins to overtake the soul as the first few rays slip out of sight is as warm as the orange hue that takes over the hazy sky.

 Niobrara National Scenic River Superintendent Susan Cook noted that her favorite place to watch the sunset is anywhere in the Niobrara River valley.

   “Everything takes on different looks as the sun sets,” Cook said. “It is an amazing feeling to just sit with your mind focused on using your senses to feel like you are a part of this masterpiece nature created.”

As the giant life-giving orb drops farther below any line of sight, additional feelings take hold. The sky, now showing the start of an indescribable gradient of color, brings more peace. Activities haven’t slowed down for much of the state’s population, however. Summer sunsets come later than any throughout the rest of the year and it would be a mistake to waste a few more precious hours of light.

Farmers progress through their fields. Planting is already done, but there might still be field work to do. Fertilizer and pivot checks occupy additional hours. The fence probably needs fixed, too. Somewhere else, near one of Nebraska’s many bodies of water, a pair of anglers cast their lines while chatting to each other, eager to make one more catch before the end of the day. The fish bite better in the hours before dusk.

In the suburbs of the metro area families might be gathering for a neighborhood bonfire. The kids are still awake, ready and willing to roast marshmallows over an open flame. The sweet smell of melting chocolate – sure to later be covering little faces – will soon be on the breeze. Smiles are easy to come by and a cold drink or two is just as close at hand.

Two more hours click by and life begins to quiet down along the prairies and highways of the Cornhusker state. The wind whispering through windmills and a symphony of crickets might be some of the only sounds for miles. It is easy to become pensive observing the firelit skies of summer dusk hours. Some days are graced with smears of pastel across clear skies, while others combust in rich reds, and pinks, highlighting voluminous clouds and all contrasting against a dark denim stratosphere.

The ground becomes shrouded in gold. Sometimes a tickle of pride creeps in as Nebraskans observe this place, they lovingly call home. It can feel all too big, or like a personal painting, commissioned for select eyes only.  

“You feel as if this was an artist creating something just for you,” Cook said. “I feel at peace with the world when I sit and watch sunsets.”

There is no one best place to view a Nebraska summer sunset. Answers vary across the terrain, such as waiting out
the colorful display at the Bob Kerry Pedestrian Bridge in Omaha, Toadstool Geologic Park in Sioux County, the Niobrara River Valley, or a neighborhood cornfield at the local American Legion baseball diamond.

It takes no special skill or equipment to appreciate the sight, either, aside for a quick spritz of bug spray. Some photo-friendly minds stop to capture the skies on camera, others just sit and soak it up as the peace sets in.