Outdoor notes: Multispecies lottery permit applications accepted beginning Jan. 2

Applications for multispecies Super Tag and Combo lottery permits will be accepted by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission beginning Jan. 2, 2026.

The Super Tag lottery permit will be valid for one elk of either sex, one antelope of either sex, one deer of either sex and two turkeys (only toms and bearded hens may be taken in the spring). One permit will be authorized for Nebraska residents only, and one permit will be authorized for residents/nonresidents. People may apply for the residents-only permit once per year for $29. People may apply for the resident/nonresident permit multiple times per year for $11.50 per application.

The Combo permit will be valid for one antelope of either sex, one deer of either sex and two turkeys (only toms and bearded hens may be taken in the spring). One permit will be authorized for Nebraska residents only, and one permit will be authorized for nonresidents only. Qualifying persons may apply multiple times per year for $11.50 per application.

These multispecies lottery permits will be valid in 2026 and 2027 in open seasons with the appropriate weapons. Winners of these permits will require a Habitat Stamp.

Applications will be received beginning at 1 p.m. Central time on Jan. 2. They must be received by Game and Parks by 5 p.m. (11:59 p.m. if applying online) on July 2 (July 3 according to regulations, but offices will be closed for the Fourth of July holiday that day).

Beginning Jan. 2, visit OutdoorNebraska.gov to apply.

Join 250-Mile Outdoor Challenge in 2026

Join the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission in marking America’s 250th anniversary by participating in the Outdoor Nebraska 250-Mile Challenge.

This free, year-long initiative encourages Nebraskans to complete 250 miles of outdoor activity to promote physical and mental well-being through fun, noncompetitive adventure outdoors.

Starting Jan. 1, 2026, residents can begin accumulating miles by walking, hiking, biking, kayaking, and more. The challenge is designed to be flexible, allowing miles to be earned from a single activity or a combination of many.

Participants can track their progress using their preferred personal fitness tracker or app, and once they meet the 250 milestone, submit their achievement at OutdoorNebraska.gov. Search for “250-mile challenge.”

By submitting a photo and proof of their mileage, they will receive a commemorative sticker and be entered into a random drawing for a chance to win prizes, including an Outdoors Package donated by sponsors. The Outdoor Package includes a two-night free stay at a Nebraska state park cabin, a Nebraskaland Magazine subscription, and a 2027 state park permit.

Participants are encouraged to share their progress and adventures throughout the year on social media by posting photos and tagging Nebraska Game and Parks. 

While miles can be accrued anywhere in the state, Game and Parks especially invites everyone to explore the diverse trail systems within Nebraska’s beautiful state parks.

Participants also can kick off their challenge by joining one of 17 first-day guided hikes Jan. 1 at locations across the state. For a list of guided hikes, visit OutdoorNebraska.govand search for “first day hikes.”

Spending time outdoors offers significant benefits for both physical and mental health. This challenge offers individuals, friends or families the opportunity to get active, reduce stress, and connect with the state's trails and outdoor spaces. It is an opportunity for each person to take their own journey of discovery and wellness.

Learn more about the challenge or register miles on the Outdoor Nebraska 250-Mile Challenge webpage at OutdoorNebraska.gov.