Free Official Travel Guide
to Western Nebraska
WestNebraska.com 1-866-684-4066
Getting Around
Western Nebraska Road Conditions
For Nebraska winter travel conditions, call 800-906-9069. To check with the Nebraska Department of Roads, visit www.511nebraska.org, or call 511 (if calling from Nebraska).
Information Centers
All major communities have tourist information centers, as do some rest areas along I-80. Look for the half-circle symbol on the map.
Time Zones
While North Platte and Valentine are in the Central Time zone, most of Western Nebraska is on Mountain Time, which is an hour earlier. Check the map to be sure of the time at your destination.
Airports
Western Nebraska has airports with airline service to and from Denver at Alliance (308-7625311 or 308-762-5992), Chadron (800-554-5111 or 308-432-5717), North Platte (308-532-1900) and Scottsbluff (800-554-5111).
Christopher Amundson
Pine Ridge
Trails West
Sandhills & Scenic Rivers
Wild West
Mullen Tanking p. 53
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NEBRASKA
Gordon Chamber
MOUNTAIN TIME
CENTRAL TIME
Gordon Parade, p. 75
Alan J. Bartels
Badlands of Sioux County, p. 65 Steve and Bobbi Olson
MOUNTAIN TIME
CENTRAL TIME
Scenic Byways (see pg. 6) Bridges to Buttes Byway – Hwy 20 Valentine to WY Border 385 Gold Rush Byway – Hwys 385 & 87 Sidney to Chadron Sandhills Journey Scenic Byway – Hwy 2 East from Alliance Western Trails Byway – Hwy 26 Ogallala to WY Border Lincoln Highway – Hwy 30 East of Brady to WY Border
Ricky and Lucy’s Greenhouse, p. 27
WELCOME CENTERS/ REST AREAS
Official Travel Guide • 5
Scenic Byways
Mark Harris
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Bowring Ranch State Historical Park
Bridges to Buttes Byway
Alan J. Bartels
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Ogallala Lake McConaughy
Lincoln Highway Scenic Byway
1 Christopher Amundson
6 • Journey to Western Nebraska 2014
Cabela’s
385 Gold Rush Byway
Toadstool Geologic Park
Bridges to Buttes Byway Jorn Olsen
Joshua Hardin
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SCENIC BYWAYS
Escape the grind and travel Western Nebraska’s scenic byways.
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Follow our scenic byways and visit these exciting attractions along the way: 1 Toadstool Geologic Park
12 Courthouse Rock and Jail Rock
2 High Plains Homestead
13 Cabela’s
3 Hudson-Meng Education and Research Center
14 Ash Hollow State Historical Park
4 Fort Robinson State Park 5 Chadron State Park 6 Museum of the Fur Trade 7 Carhenge 8 Alliance Historic Main Street 9
Alliance Central Park Fountain
10 Scotts Bluff National Monument 11 Chimney Rock
15 Lake McConaughy 16 Buffalo Bill’s Ranch Historical Park 17 Nebraska National Forest Bessey Ranger District 18 Bowring Ranch State Historical Park
For mo inform re on our ation by see pag ways e 88.
19 Niobrara National Scenic River 20 National Pony Express Monument
Official Travel Guide • 7
Wild West
pg. 10
Maxwell Brady North Platte Wellfleet Hershey Sutherland Paxton Ogallala Keystone Big Springs Lodgepole Chappell Sidney Potter Kimball Harrisburg
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Boot Hill Cemetery, Ogallala, p. 26 Nick Adams
Trails West
pg. 32
Gering Scottsbluff Mitchell Henry Minatare Bayard Morrill Bridgeport Lisco & Broadwater Lewellen Oshkosh
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Scotts Bluff National Monument, Gering, p. 34 Nebraska Tourism
Journey to Western Nebraska is the official travel guide of the Western Nebraska Tourism Coalition. Published by the Western Nebraska Tourism Coalition and Nebraska Life Magazine.
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Western Nebraska Tourism Coalition PO Box 628 Ogallala, NE 69153 1-866-684-4066 www.WestNebraska.com
Nebraska Life Magazine 206 Norfolk Ave. • PO Box 819 Norfolk, NE 68702-0819 1-800-777-6159 www.NebraskaLife.com
About the Cover Join us on one of America’s wildest rides with the incredible journey through Western Nebraska. You’ll feel the same rush these young cowboys do as they gallop near Harrison like their great-great-grandpas did. Romp through crystal-clear waters of the state’s greatest lake, explore our own landmark Rockies and feast upon adventures at every turn in these magical roads. Large cover photo by Steve and Bobbi Olson
Sandhills and Scenic Rivers
Small cover images by (left to right) Bobbi and Steve Olson, Nebraska Tourism and Christopher Amundson
pg. 46
Alliance 48 Hemingford 52 Hyannis 53 Ashby 53 Mullen 53 Tryon 55 Arthur 55 Seneca 55 Thedford 55 Halsey 55 Merriman 57 Nenzel and Cody 57 Valentine 59
Snake River Falls, Valentine, p. 60 Nebraska Tourism
Pine Ridge
pg. 62
Harrison Crawford Chadron Hay Springs Rushville Gordon
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Museum of the Fur Trade, Chadron, p. 71 Nebraska Tourism
Fossil Freeway 31 Hunting and Fishing 45 2014 Events 76
Hotels & Motels Unique Lodging Campgrounds
78 81 83
Golf Courses Tourism Contacts
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Official Travel Guide • 9
Wild
West
In the shadow of the Golden Spike Tower at Union Pacific’s Bailey Yard in North Platte, a corn maze provides a challenge for families seeking fun and adventure in Nebraska’s Wild West.
Christopher Amundson
GETTING STARTED
This is a land rich with dreams. Even when danger filled the air from Ogallala’s rough-andtumble cattle drives to the notorious Sidney-to-Deadwood Trail, dreams lived on. When North Platte had a vision of an Independence Day blowout, William F. Cody dreamed up his globe-trotting Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show. But cowboys in their wildest dreams couldn’t have dreamed of the pleasure voyage now enjoyed in Wild West Country where a magical Sandhills Sea was created with Lake McConaughy. Nebraska’s biggest lake is 35,000 enchanting acres, with 100 shoreline miles of white, sandy beaches. This dream journey opens up to new horizons past Big Springs, where rolling hills carry on to the open range west toward Sidney and Kimball.
Wild West • 11
WILD WEST
Brady • Maxwell North Platte • Wellfleet Hershey • Sutherland • Paxton Ogallala • Keystone Big Springs • Chappell Lodgepole • Sidney • Potter Kimball • Harrisburg
WELCOME CENTERS/ REST AREAS
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Attractions 1 Panorama Point 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
& Tri-State Marker Missile Silo Home Potter Sundry Lincoln Highway National Pony Express Monument Cabela’s Front Street Lake McConaughy Haythorn Ranch Sutherland Reservoir Golden Spike Tower at Bailey Yard Buffalo Bill State Historical Park Dancing Leaf Cultural Learning Center Fort McPherson National Cemetery Bird Watching
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Maxwell
Maxwell is near the site of old Fort McPherson, which used to guard the Oregon Trail. Buffalo Bill served here as an Army scout. Though the fort is gone, the breathtaking Fort McPherson National Cemetery shines on. Established in 1873, it is Nebraska’s only national cemetery and one of the country’s prettiest. More than 6,700 veterans, from the Civil War to recent conflicts, are buried under white marble monuments. The cemetery is two miles south of I-80 exit 190 and is open year-round. Group tours are available. (888) 737-2800. Nearby, on the site of the fort, Fort McPherson Campground offers cabins, RV and tent camping April 15-Oct. 15, along with fishing, hunting and hiking. It is two miles south, a half mile west and a half mile south of I-80 exit 190. (308) 582-4320.
Brady
On the eastern end of Wild West Country, Brady is home to several outdoor adventures. Jeffrey Canyon Reservoir is five miles south and one mile west of Brady. The 900-acre lake offers primitive camping, trails and fishing.
Potter’s Pasture Mountain Bike Trail has many trails, from easy to challenging. Finding it requires following some oldfashioned country directions: Go south of town to the crossroads (look for the large power lines), turn right and stay on the asphalt. After you pass Jeffrey Lake, the road turns to dirt. Keep going till you see a large windmill and turn left. This is the trailhead. Unload your two-wheeler and go have some fun. (308) 584-3316.
North Platte
West of Maxwell on I-80 is North Platte, where since the 1860s, journeys of adventure rolled on the rails and trails. Among the first landmarks you’ll see is Fort Cody Trading Post at the edge of town along the interstate. Fort Cody is one of the state’s most unusual roadside attractions. Outside it looks like a log stockade; inside it is a combination gift shop and museum, with Buffalo Bill Cody memorabilia and a miniature Wild West Show. Owner Chuck Henline said the most common question he gets from travelers is, “How do you get to the ranch?”
Near Brady, mountain bikers can rejoice in the off-road haven known as Potter’s Pasture. More than 15 miles of trails wind through the 1,200-acre hill country.
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The ranch, of course, is the Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park, which showcases the restored 1880s house, barn and outbuildings of William F. Cody’s famous “Scout’s Rest Ranch.” The site features Wild West Show memorabilia, camping and sandhills crane viewing. Cody owned about 4,000 acres, and the park encompasses 25 acres of the original ranch. As the folks at Fort Cody would tell you, it’s easy to find: north on Highway 83, then west on Highway 30, then north on Buffalo Bill Avenue. The house and barn are open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday, March 22-May 27; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily, May 28-Sept. 3; and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. MondayFriday, Sept. 6-Oct. 21. Call to confirm, as hours are subject to change. State park permit required. (308) 535-8035. Buffalo Bill is memorialized at Cody Park on north U.S. Highway 83. In 1998, a British sculptor donated a life-size bronze statue of Buffalo Bill, whose show was a big hit in Queen Victoria’s time. As the centerpiece of the park’s Wild West Memorial, the statue, valued at $500,000 at the time of its installation, is surrounded by the flags of every state and nation the Wild West Show visited. At the park’s Railroad Museum,
Christopher Amundson
Union Pacific Railroad displays two of its largest locomotives (one steam, one diesel) and houses a railroad museum in the accompanying cars and restored depot. The steam engine is one of two remaining 3900-class Challenger locomotives built by Union Pacific. Open 10 a.m.-7 p.m. daily, May 1-Sept. 16. The park also has amusement rides for children, including an antique carousel and Ferris wheel. Concession stand available. There is an admission for rides; other attractions are free. Open Memorial Day-Labor Day, 5-10 p.m. Monday-Friday; noon-10 p.m. Saturday; and noon-9 p.m. Sunday. In 1995, the Guinness Book of World Records recognized Union Pacific’s Bailey Yard as the world’s largest railroad classification yard. It has since grown by 25 percent. The sprawling grounds stretch eight miles and cover nearly
3,000 acres. More than 15,000 cars pass through daily. Golden Spike Tower and Visitor Center rises eight stories above the ground to give visitors a bird’s-eye view of the massive Bailey Yard. Train fans can experience the sights and sounds from an enclosed eighth floor and an outdoor seventh floor. The tower and its Visitor Center are open 9 a.m.-7 p.m. MondaySaturday and 1-7 p.m. Sunday, May-September; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 1-5 p.m. Sunday, October-April. Group tours are available upon request. Admission charged. Take Highway 83 to Highway 30, and travel west on Highway 30. Go south on Buffalo Bill Avenue until you come to A Street. At A Street, go west until you come to Homestead Road. Then take a right to tower. The area’s geological history is part of Wild West • 13
Steve and Bobbi Olson
Those who served our country are honored at North Platte’s 20th Century Veteran’s Memorial.
the flavor of Feather River Vineyards, where the mineral-rich soil produces distinctive grapes for its new wines. A tasting room is open for wine sampling, and the purchase of bottles and other gifts. Feather River Vineyards is located in the scenic Loess Hills, southeast of North Platte at 5700 S.E. State Farm
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Road. (308) 696-0078. A North Platte Canteen memorial stands at the site of the old depot on Front Street, but the best canteen display is at the Lincoln County Historical Museum, just around the corner from Buffalo Bill’s ranch. It commemorates the volunteerrun World War II canteen that met every
train and fed every soldier who passed through the depot – about 6 million soldiers in all. The canteen was the subject of a 2002 book that became a national bestseller, Once Upon a Town by Bob Greene. The museum also features a prairie village of historic buildings from the area, including a Pony Express station and the old Fort McPherson headquarters. Open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 1-5 p.m. Sunday, May through September. Bus tours available. (308) 534-5640. Located just south of I-80, America’s 20th Century Veterans’ Memorial honors all military men and women of the past century. A brick bas-relief sculpture depicts major wars from World War I to the Persian Gulf. Larger-than-life-size bronze statues depict the branches of the armed forces and the ladies of the North Platte Canteen. The memorial is just south of I-80 beside Highway 83. (308) 532-6579. The North Platte Area Children’s
Penny’s Diner and Oak Tree Inn
Penny’s Diner, a ‘50s style eatery, serves delicious food including sundaes, shakes and malts. Oak Tree Inn features Wi-Fi, meeting rooms and a fitness center. We look forward to serving you.
I-80 Exit 177 • 451 Halligan Drive North Platte, NE • 308-535-9900 www.oaktreeinn.com
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Museum offers hands-on learning about science, technology, culture and the arts. It is in the historic Carnegie Library building, 314 N. Jeffers St. (308) 532-3512. Downtown has unique shops, restaurants and art galleries, including the Art & Gift Gallery, 516 N. Dewey, the largest original art gallery between Omaha and Denver. Open 11 a.m.-6 p.m. TuesdaySaturday. (308) 534-1946.
Five miles south of town, Lake Maloney State Recreation Area provides fishing, boating, camping, picnicking, as well as archery, golf and wildlife observation. North Platte offers three 18-hole golf courses: Iron Eagle, (308) 535-6730; Lake Maloney, (308) 532-9998; and Rivers Edge, (308) 534-7550, as well as a nine-hole course, Indian Meadows, (308) 532-6955. For more information about North Platte, contact the North Platte/Lincoln County Convention and Visitors Bureau at (800) 955-4528.
Wellfleet
Twenty-five miles south of North Platte on Highway 83, the Dancing Leaf Cultural Learning Center shows what life was like in the Medicine Creek Valley 1,000 years ago, when people of the Upper Republican Culture lived in earth lodges and planted crops in this area. Dancing Leaf has a reconstructed
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Native American earth lodge, nature trails, a medicine wheel, canoeing, gift shop and buffalo stew meals. A museum displays the area’s rich fossil history, as 14 “type specimens” (indicating the discovery of a previously unknown species) have been found in the surrounding area, including the imperial mammoth, which stood 14 feet at the shoulder. Tours are available by appointment and provided year-round with a reservation. Go two miles east at the railroad tracks on Opal Springs Road. Group tours available. (308) 963-4233.
Hershey
Stones and Bones Gallery and Emporium offers a unique assemblage of Stone Age artifacts from Western Nebraska, along with western and wildlife art. Group tours of 10 or fewer are available at a minimal cost. Offers flint knapping instructions for arrowhead chipping, as
well as setup demonstrations for teepees. Located two miles north of I-80 at exit 164, at 105 E. Second St. (308) 368-7400.
Sutherland
Every year, from mid-February to early April, the Platte River hosts one of nature’s greatest spectacles – the spring migration of sandhill cranes. It is the largest gathering of cranes in the world, some half a million every year. During the day, the cranes feed in area fields. Remember to stay in your car for best viewing, and don’t drive into fields to get closer. Cranes are wary, and landowner permission is required when entering private property. One mile south of town, Sutherland Reservoir offers swimming, camping and fishing. The area has good wildlife habitat, and bald eagles use it as a winter feeding area. Oregon Trail Golf Course is a ninehole course and campground on the north
Christopher Amundson
Splashing and fun are the norm when riding the bumper boats at Cody Go Karts, which also offers a game room, train, miniature golf, water slides and more.
shore of the lake with RV hook-ups, campsites and a restaurant. (308) 386-4653.
Paxton
Ole’s Big Game Steakhouse and Lounge has been a favorite stop along
the highway long before I-80 came through. It started as a bar in downtown Paxton. Through the years, owner Ole Herstedt decorated the walls with more than 200 big game trophies he brought back from his worldwide hunting safaris. (308) 239-4500.
Take Your Health to Heart!
At Happy Heart Specialty Foods, we’ve got our finger on the pulse of healthy, happy living. From supplements and homeopathic medicine to organic, natural and gluten-free foods, we’re here for you. Mail and special orders welcome! Mon-Fri, 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. • Sat, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
301 S. Jeffers • North Platte 800-378-1505 • 308-532-1505 Wild West • 17
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Ogallala
Christopher Amundson
Teaching a man to fish is never more fun than while looking for lunkers at Nebraska’s largest reservoir, Lake McConaughy, and at nearby Lake Ogallala.
Ogallala was the “Gomorrah of the cattle trail,” wrote Andy Adams, a trail driver who first saw the town in 1875. “Three fourths of its business houses were dance halls, gambling houses and saloons.” In the 1870s and 1880s, Ogallala was the end of the trail as cowboys drove herds of longhorns up from Texas to be shipped east on the Union Pacific Railroad. After long, hard months in the saddle, cowboys were ready for a good time when they reached town. Today, visitors to Nebraska’s “Cowboy Capital” can enjoy Wild West entertainment at Front Street. The Crystal Palace Revue and Shoot Out is Nebraska’s longest-running summer theater, a musical comedy family show where dance hall girls kick up their heels. The show runs six nights a week Memorial Day through mid-August.
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Adjacent attractions are the Front Street Steakhouse and the Cowboy Museum, a free museum that includes a jail, barbershop, funeral parlor and various cowboy and Native American artifacts. (308) 284-6000. The renowned Petrified Wood Gallery has moved across the road from its old Front Street home to a newly designed and expanded gallery at 481 E. First St. (308) 284-9996. The gallery is a museum of natural history specializing in ancient woods, fossils and Native American artifacts collected over more than 50 years by twin-brother artists Harvey and Howard Kenfield. The Kenfield brothers’ creations include music boxes and wall hangings made from tiny pieces of petrified wood. The collection has won prizes at gem and mineral shows throughout the nation. The Mansion on the Hill was Ogallala’s finest home when it was built in 1887. Its 16-inch-thick brick walls are
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Christopher Amundson (both)
Miles of sandy beaches encourage relaxation at Lake McConaughy and below Kingsley Dam at Lake Ogallala. The Petrified Art Gallery displays geologic treasures and western art.
trimmed with stone. It is open Memorial Day through mid-September as a Victorian period residence museum. It is at the corner of Spruce and 10th streets. Three blocks west of the mansion on 10th Street is the original Ogallala cemetery, long known as Boot Hill for the cowboys who were “buried with their boots on.”
West Winds Golf Club, just southeast of Ogallala, is open to the public and has an 18-hole course for golf enthusiasts. Seventeen miles northeast of town, Haythorn Land & Cattle Co. is a fifthgeneration ranch that is one of the largest quarter horse breeders in the world. The ranch offers wagon rides and chuck wagon dinners for groups with a minimum of 25 people. They prepare and ship mesquite-smoked meats and home-
made butter fudge across the nation. Also at the ranch is a gift shop and the Figure Four Traditions Events Center, a 7,200-square-foot facility available for rental and catering. (308) 355-4000. What the old-time cowboys needed, but didn’t have, was a really big lake in which to cool off. Eight miles northeast of Ogallala, Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area is Nebraska’s largest reservoir. At full capacity, McConaughy is four miles wide,
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22 miles long and 142 feet deep at the dam with more than 100 miles of shoreline. A state park permit is required. The lake offers many types of recreation, with areas for camping and picnicking, beaches for swimming, and the lake itself – popular with sailboaters, waterskiers, windsurfers, scuba divers and anglers. Fish grow to trophy proportions here, and “Big Mac” accounts for several state fishing records. Game fish include rainbow trout, catfish, walleye and white bass, striped bass, smallmouth bass and others. The Lake McConaughy Visitor/Water Interpretive Center is on the south side of the lake, nine miles north of Ogallala on Highway 61. Nebraska’s first water museum interprets the significance of water to Nebraska’s past, present and future. The center includes an aquarium and 50-seat theater. (308) 284-8800. Just below Kingsley Dam is Lake Ogallala, known as the “little lake.” It covers
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about half a square mile and offers excellent fishing for rainbow trout and yellow perch. It’s also a good backup destination if wind curtails water sports on the big lake. Lake Ogallala also is the site of the Bald Eagle Viewing Center. The variety of habitat in the area attracts one of the largest and most diverse bird populations documented in the United States. The center is open for eagle viewing late December through early March. (308) 284-2332 or (308) 995-8601. In the fall, the Big Mac area becomes waterfowl hunting territory. Large numbers of Canada geese come to Clear Creek Waterfowl Management Area at the west end of the lake. Winter brings visitors for ice fishing, skating and backpacking. South of Ogallala, at Meadowlark Hill, one might expect to see birds. There are feathered friends here among the many branches, but what people come here to see, and smell, are lilacs in full bloom. More than 40 years in the making, Max
and Darlene Peterson’s passion has grown to fill 14 acres with the flower, and its the world’s largest private collection of lilacs. Meadowlark Hill has some public tours in May during the lilac bloom. For directions or information call (308) 284-2524. For more information about Ogallala and Lake McConaughy, contact the Ogallala/Keith County Chamber of Commerce. (800) 658-4390.
Keystone
East of Kingsley Dam, the town of Keystone is home to one of the most unique churches you’ll find. Built in 1908, the Little Church of Keystone is the result of cooperation and pioneer ingenuity. The town was too small for two churches, so the little church was built as a combined Catholic/Protestant church. It has a Catholic altar at one end and a Protestant altar at the other. Reversible pews face either way. (800) 658-4390.
Patriotically protruding from the prairie, the Farmer’s Elevator in Chappell proudly waves from a mile away at motorists passing on Interstate 80. A golf course, RV park and campground are close by and Chappell offers most services. Nick Adams
Big Springs Heading west from Ogallala on I-80, you’ll come to Big Springs just before the I-76 junction to Julesburg, Colo. The first and largest robbery of a Union Pacific train happened near Big Springs in 1877. Texas outlaw Sam Bass and five companions made off with $60,000 in gold and currency. Some say that part of the loot, a stash
of $20 gold pieces, is still buried in the area. Less than a year after the robbery, Texas Rangers killed Bass on his 27th birthday. His epitaph reads, “A brave man reposes in death here. Why was he not true?” In Big Springs, a historical marker at Eiker Park, on the west side of town, tells the story of the famous robbery. Not surprisingly, the town is named for a natural spring. From the town’s found-
ing through 1950, the spring was used to supply water for Union Pacific steam locomotives. Today, walking trails at Eiker Park lead to the spring. The Phelps Hotel was built in 1885 to house railroad workers staying in Big Springs between shifts. The hotel is on the National Register of Historic Places and has been renovated. It is open for tours by appointment. (308) 889-3625. Western Nebraska is sod house country. In the early days, pioneers found little with which to build log cabins. Improvising, they developed the sod house. The Waterman Sod House is among the last of the old-time sod houses still standing. It is five miles north of Big Springs on Day Road. For more information, contact the Big Springs Chamber of Commerce. (308) 889-3681.
Lodgepole
The Lodgepole Depot Museum, 1424 Peterson Blvd., displays horse buggies, antique furniture and historical clothing inside the old train depot. Open by appointment. (308) 483-5517.
Chappell
Travelers see grain elevators aplenty along I-80, but none with a paint job like the Farmers Elevator in Chappell. An American flag measuring 52 feet by 100 feet is painted on its south side. The curves of the silos make the flag look like it’s blowing in the wind. Thanks to floodlights, the giant flag is plainly visible to Interstate travelers both day and night. Wild West • 23
Cabela’s: ‘World’s Foremost Outfitter’ IN 1961, DICK CABELA was working at his family’s furniture store in Chappell when he placed a newspaper ad offering 12 hand-tied fishing flies for $1. Only one person responded, but he kept at it, brainstorming with his wife, Mary, at the kitchen table. Among its more than 40 stores is a 75,000-square-foot Sidney headquarters devoted to guns, fishing poles and camping gear. The 27-foot-tall “Conservation Mountain“ is populated with lifelike trophy animals. There’s also an 8,000-gallon aquarium filled with Nebraska native fish. With more than 1.2 million visitors annually, the Sidney store trails only Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo as Nebraska’s top tourist attraction.
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Joshua Hardin
A mountain among outdoor retailers, Cabela’s headquarters and flagship store is in Sidney.
Chappell is a convenient stop for travelers looking to get off the interstate for golf, camping or fishing. Chappell Golf Course, a nine-hole municipal course, and Creekside RV Park and Campground are just off I-80. Chappell Lake is just north of the interchange and offers largemouth bass, catfish, perch, walleye and bluegill.
With native grasses and wildflowers, a flock of Canada geese and public rest rooms, it’s also a good picnic spot. The Sudman-Neumann Heritage House at Fifth and Vincent streets is restored to its 1911 glory and filled with period furniture. The mansion, incidentally, was the first house in the area to
have electric lights and running water. It’s open 2-4 p.m. Sundays, or call (308) 874-3441 for an appointment. Admission is free, but donations are accepted. You won’t find Rembrandt paintings in Chappell, but the reproductions at the Chappell Memorial Art Gallery are so good that they were long thought to be Rembrandt originals. The collection includes many other rare paintings and unusual oriental art. The gallery is part of the Chappell Public Library, 289 Babcock, which is also home to the Bergstrom Rock and Gem Collection, including mastodon fossils, and polished stones and gems. How did Chappell get such collections? Orianna Ward Chappell, wife of the railroad executive for whom the town was named in 1884, donated many of the items. (308) 874-2626. History buffs will find the Pony Express 9-Mile Station Marker near the northeast quadrant of the I-80 inter-
change. An access road on the south side of I-80 leads three miles to the B-24 Bomber Crash Site. On June 7, 1944, a bomber en route from Lincoln to the West Coast caught fire during a thunderstorm. The pilot descended to 500 feet, but the plane exploded just south of Chappell. All 10 crewmen were killed. For more information, call Chappell Tourist Information at (308) 874-2401.
Sidney
If this were a 1870s travel guide, we’d advise you to go around Sidney. No sense taking your chances with the outlaws, gamblers and riffraff that made this railroad town one of the toughest places in the West. Stay on the train, lock the doors and you’ll be fine. Sidney began in 1867 as a fort guarding the Union Pacific Railroad from Native Americans. With the discovery of
gold in the Black Hills, Sidney became a trailhead for northbound gold-seekers. The boomtown days brought easy money and outlaws. It is said that a single city block once held 23 saloons. The tales of Sidney’s rowdy past are many. One local favorite is an incident in which a man was shot and killed at a dance. The body was propped up in a corner, and the dance went on. Soon, another man was shot and likewise displayed. The party, so it was said, ended only after the third shooting. These days the community of 6,474 residents is best known as the home of Cabela’s, a locally owned business that began on a kitchen table and now bills itself as the “World’s Foremost Outfitter.” Visible for miles, the green-and-gold water tower bearing the Cabela’s logo stands tall at exit 59. Locals call it the “big green stop sign on I-80.” For more than 1 million visitors each year, it beckons
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irresistibly. The 72,000-square-foot store sells outdoor equipment of every sort from fishing and hunting to backpacking and photography. Open 8 a.m.-8 p.m., Monday-Saturday and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday. Closed Christmas Day, Thanksgiving and Easter. RV parking and tent camping available. (308) 254-7889. Near the Cabela’s retail giant is the Pony Express National Monument, reportedly the only national monument with flags and markers that honor all the states the Pony Express riders journeyed to. The monument’s flags can be seen by travelers on I-80. Sidney Barracks was established in 1867 to protect Union Pacific Railroad track layers against the threat of Indian attack. In 1869, the post was relocated to the present site at Sidney, and the following year it was renamed Fort Sidney and was active through the Indian wars. At its height, the fort had 40 buildings. The fort was closed in 1894, but today, three build-
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Nebraska Tourism
ings remain in what is now a residential neighborhood on the east side of town. The grounds of former Boot Hill Cemetery that was established by the military in 1868 has recently been restored and features interpretive panels with stories about some of the people who were buried there. The cemetery was used until 1889, and 211 bodies were removed and relocated in 1922. At Sixth and Jackson streets, Fort Sidney Museum and Post Commander’s Home consists of three buildings, the Officers’ Quarters, which is a museum of Sidney’s colorful past, and the Post Commander’s Home, which has been restored with original and other period furnishings. The third building still standing is an octagonal stone building that used to be the fort’s powder magazine. It is now attached to a private home at 1545 Fifth Ave. All three buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Fort Sidney Complex is open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday and 1-4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Memorial Day-Labor Day. (308) 254-4419. Half a century after Fort Sidney closed, Sidney again became home to a major military facility. The Sioux Army Depot, built in 1942, held tons of military equipment and ammunition. Located six miles west and two miles north of Sidney, the site covered 36 square miles. Closed in 1967, its odd igloo-shaped structures that once housed ammunition still stand and are accessible through a driving tour. When a local man suggested putting up a flagpole for the War Memorial in Legion
Park and Memorial Gardens, people decided that an ordinary flagpole wasn’t enough to honor Cheyenne County’s veterans. Volunteers and local companies converted a blown-down interstate light pole, anchoring it with 20 tons of concrete and rebar. It stands 140 feet tall and is the tallest flagpole in the state. The flag itself is 20 feet tall and 38 feet wide. The park, at 11th and Toledo, features a railroad monument, a new pond stocked with fish, handicap-accessible fishing docks, a charming gazebo and a modern playground for children. The Living Memorial Gardens is home of “Nebraska’s First Angel of Hope” (based on the Christmas Box Angel). The park is a starting point for a paved walking trail that winds through most of the city. For visitors seeking more of a workout, the Cheyenne County Community Center, 627 Toledo, near Legion Park offers indoor sports and exercise facilities, including basketball and racquetball courts, running tracks and weight equipment. There is an admission charge; however, visitors to Sidney can receive free admission. Open year-round 5 a.m.10 p.m. Monday-Friday; 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday; noon-6 p.m. Sunday. (308) 254-7000. Located on bluffs overlooking Sidney, Hillside Municipal Golf Course incorporates the area’s rugged Western terrain into a championship-caliber 18-hole public course. The course winds through a beautiful canyon, offering spectacular views of Sidney and the surrounding countryside. (308) 254-2311.
The Cheyenne County Museum and Pony Express National Monument are but a few of Sidney’s many attractions.
Ramona Joyce
Test your marksmanship at Sidney Shooting Park, which offers target shooting and sporting clays. From I-80 exit 59, go north to U.S. Highway 30, then west to Greenwood Road, then three miles north. The park is open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and noon-4 p.m. Sunday. Fifty sporting clays are $15; 100 are $25. (308) 254-4577. In 1874, a military expedition led by George Armstrong Custer discovered gold in the Black Hills. Though a treaty reserved the Black Hills to the Sioux Indians, the Army stopped enforcing it. Soon a major gold rush was under way – and it led to war between the Sioux and the United States, a war in which Custer
himself was famously killed in the Battle of the Little Bighorn. For would-be gold miners, Sidney became a popular jumping-off place, leaving behind the ease of railroad travel and heading overland up the 267-mile Sidney-to-Deadwood Trail. Through the early 1880s, the trail carried most of the gold rush traffic, including gold shipments from the Black Hills. On Highway 30 west of town, a historical marker indicates where wagon ruts from the trail are still visible up the valley across the Union Pacific tracks. Highway 30 is also part of the old Lincoln Highway, which in the 1920s became the first paved coast-to-coast auto route.
Today, the Nebraska portion of U.S. Highway 385 is designated the Gold Rush Byway. From the Colorado to the South Dakota state lines, the highway connects Sidney with Bridgeport, Alliance and Chadron. It follows the old trail for much of the way and rolls through some of the most spectacular country in the state. Heading north from Sidney, the highway passes through the towns of Gurley and Dalton before descending dramatically into the North Platte Valley beside Courthouse and Jail rocks near Bridgeport. Northeast of Sidney, just off of Highway 385, the Gold Rush Scenic Byway, visitors can find one of the state’s most interesting greenhouses. And, it’s interesting too that the owners of Ricky and Lucy’s Country Greenhouse, 11732 Road 32, are neither named Ricky nor Lucy. In 2003, Terri and Dan Wolff opened the business in a renovated 1800s era barn, and their organic farm offers much more than greenery. Organic herbs, vegetables, pastas, coffees and gourmet hot chocolates are among the offerings. There’s a gift shop with bath and body products, Roman statuary, pottery, and more. (877) 254-2204.
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Sisters Grimm WHEN YOU ENTER the village of Bushnell near the edge of Wyoming, many travelers assume this is the end of the line for Nebraska, yet for a pair of sisters it’s where the journey begins. “I’m a bit obsessed with fairy tales,” admits Jamie Carpenter, who founded Sisters Grimm with her sister, Jessica. Jamie did her college thesis on the Brothers Grimm, which is where this bookish barn got its name. Since its opening 2011, Sisters Grimm has been more than a book store. It features local artwork, antiques, collectibles and a large menu of specialty coffee and tea drinks. There’s a True Grit book published way before John Wayne put on his eyepatch and a Little Orphan Annie book bound backward. So like Sisters Grimm, the story ends with a beginning.
Alan J. Bartels (both)
A cup of coffee and a good book are guaranteed when visiting Sisters Grimm in Bushnell.
Six miles west of Sidney, the I-80 Golden Link marks where the last segment of Interstate 80 was completed in 1974. The link is a 6-inch strip of brass plates embedded in both lanes. For more information about Sidney, contact the Cheyenne County Visitors Committee. (866) 545-4030.
Potter
You don’t have to go far out of your way to visit downtown Potter – it’s just a minute’s drive from I-80. Unwind at city parks or at the Reading Garden beside the library downtown. Across the street, in one of several restored historic buildings, Potter Sundry is an old-fashioned soda fountain that serves homemade food and ice cream desserts. The Tin Roof Sundaes are a legendary sweet retreat from the fast lane. The Chestnut Street Memory Station antique store is next door. Nearby is A Collective Gathering Flea Market, and the old Lincoln Highway Cafe, now known as Bags Bar and Steakhouse. The Railroad Museum on Front Street displays Union Pacific Railroad History. Potter Historical Museum on Sherman Street has artifacts from Potter. Both museums are open by appointment. (308) 879-4356. Prairie Pines Golf Course is a links style nine-hole course. Cart rental available. (308) 879-4469. Three miles east of Potter on U.S. Highway 30 is the historic Point of 28 • Journey to Western Nebraska 2014
Rocks, where railroad crews laying the Union Pacific line east of Potter clashed with Indians. The altercations provided the impetus to establish Fort Sidney. The track here, called Buffalo Bend, is the sharpest curve on the Union Pacific line. Lodgepole Creek, which runs along the track, is the longest creek in the world. Lodging and camping facilities are located beneath the Point, just south of Highway 30. For more information about Potter, contact the Cheyenne County Visitors Committee. (866) 545-4030.
Kimball
Like many Nebraska towns, Kimball began as a “hell on wheels” railroad construction camp. Running west from Omaha, the Union Pacific tracks reached the area in 1867. Because of large herds of antelope in the area, the railroad called the new station Antelope. When a village sprang up nearby, it was known as Antelopeville. In 1885, the growing settlement was renamed in honor of railroad executive Thomas Kimball. Kimball’s history is displayed at the Plains Historical Museum downtown. Housed in a 1904 building listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the museum’s displays include American Indian artifacts, a collection of dolls from around the world and an 1840s autograph book. It is open June through August. After oil was discovered in Kimball County in 1950, Kimball became known as the “Oil Capital of Nebraska.” Because
After serving as part of our country’s nuclear deterrent for decades, this decommissioned Titan 1 missile stands in Gotte Park in Kimball.
of the Cold War, Kimball soon had another title – “Missile Center, U.S.A.” South of town, the area’s first Atlas missile site was completed in 1961. The following year, work began on a large network of Minuteman missile silos around
Kimball. To this day, some 200 Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missiles are housed in the tri-state area of Nebraska, Colorado and Wyoming. For an insider’s look at missile silos, visitors can tour the home of Don and
Charlene Zwonitzer south of Kimball. The Zwonitzers purchased and converted an Atlas E missile silo into their permanent 15,000-squarefoot underground home. They provide tours free of charge. Best to call ahead for directions and an appointment. (308) 235-2708. Kimball bills itself as the “High Point of Nebraska,” and rightfully so. Nebraska’s highest point isn’t the peak of Chimney Rock or the top of Scotts Bluff National Monument. It’s Panorama Point, elevation 5,424 feet, 33 miles southwest of Kimball in the Panhandle’s
Wild West • 29
and all of this is in a very picturesque setting with easy access from I-80 and highways 30 and 71. (308) 235-4241. For more information on Kimball, contact Kimball County Tourism. (308) 241-0573.
Harrisburg
Christopher Amundson
Kimball is known as the Oil Capital of Nebraska, and it’s also energized by the harvesting of green energy at a massive wind farm near town.
southwest corner. You won’t need your mountain climbing gear. Walking shoes will do. The point is a gentle hill rather than a precipice. At the top, Nebraska’s high point is ... well, rather flat, but it offers a broad and beautiful view. On a clear day, the Rocky Mountains are visible to the southwest. The mile-high point is becoming popular with travelers. The Kimball-Banner Chamber of Commerce provides directions and offers tonguein-cheek certificates to those who boldly reach the summit. Call (308) 235-3782. Nearby, the Tri-State Marker shows the spot where Nebraska, Wyoming and Colorado meet. The 1869 marker actually sits several hundred feet from where it was supposed to be, but it was easier to redraw the map than to move it. It became the official boundary between the states. The southwest Nebraska Panhandle’s only water-based recreation spot is eight miles west of Kimball on Highway 30. Oliver Reservoir State Recreation Area has a 270-acre lake for fishing, boating, water skiing and sandy beaches for swimmers. The area also has areas for camping, picnicking and hiking. Open year-round. A state park entry permit is required. (402) 436-3777. Kimball Recreation Area and Four Winds Golf Course are two miles east of town. The 18-hole championship golf course is open seven days a week from 8 a.m. until dark (closed January and February). It welcomes golfers of all levels and is a great place for truckers who love 30 • Journey to Western Nebraska 2014
to golf. The 18-hole green fee is “all day golf ” (as many holes as you can play), and there is a practice facility, driving range, a junior area, putting and chipping greens as well as professional club fitting. Lessons and carts are available,
Turning north from Kimball, State Highway 71 will take you through the Wildcat Hills and into the North Platte Valley at Gering. First, however, it passes near the little village of Harrisburg. The Banner County Museum, at 200 N. Pennsylvania, is an 11-building complex that includes a 19th-century log schoolhouse, sod house, log cabin, 1910 barn, pioneer church and the old Banner County Bank. The museum is open 2-5 p.m. Sunday, Memorial Day-Labor Day and by appointment. (308) 436-4514.
Fossil Freeway offers fascinating ride WESTERN NEBRASKA is blessed with some of the great trails in American history, but only one of these routes takes you back millions of years. The roadblocks in these time travels are sabertoothed cats, king-sized cousins of the rhino, three-toed ancient horses and prehistoric hog-like creatures bigger than buffalo. This paleontology path welcomes visitors from across the globe. Join us for the fascinating journey along the Fossil Freeway. The magical trail to the past begins in South Dakota with perhaps North America’s most fascinating Ice Age treasures at the Mammoth Site of Hot Springs. Visitors will be treated to a tour of the world’s largest mammoth research facility and experience an active paleontological dig site. (605) 745-6017. At Toadstool Geologic Park you’ll find fascinating fossils that seem to be from another planet. The extinct animals discovered include the oreodonts, which were sheep-like creatures with fierce canine choppers. There’s also the brontotheres, built like an 8-foot-tall rhino. (308) 432-0300. As you head another three miles down the Sioux County trail, Oglala National Grassland looms, with the Hudson-Meng Education and Research Center. Here 600 bison were slaughtered 10,000 years ago by efficient paleohunters. These stealthy stalkers were responsible for the world’s largest Alberta bison kill. (308) 665-3900. About 25 miles south at Fort Robinson State Park, the Trailside Museum of Natural History displays fantastic findings from fossil hunts that first began in this Pine Ridge area in 1891. The museum’s exhibits includes the skull of a 40-foot-long sea lizard, called the mosasaur, as well as a bone from the famed three-horned dinosaur, the triceratops. One of the red-hot attractions is the Ice Age showdown, “Clash of the Mammoths.” (308) 665-2929.
To the west, near Harrison, Agate Fossil Beds National Monument awakens long-gone creatures like a mini-rhino called the menoceras, the buffalo-sized hog-like creature called
the dinohyus, and a long-necked moropus seemingly created by the Greek gods as part bear, horse and sloth. (308) 668-2211. The journey south toward Gering brings travelers one of the state’s great landmarks at the Scotts Bluff National Monument, which also is home to many fascinating fossil discoveries and odd prehistoric creatures dating back millions of years. (308) 436-9700. South of Gering, a nature center near the Wildcat Hills Visitor’s Center features a fossil of two saber-toothed cats locked in fatal battle 25 million years ago. That prehistoric cat fight was discovered in Western Nebraska in 1932, and the center also displays a perfectly preserved fossilized snapping turtle. (308) 436-3777.
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Trails
West
Gallop on a breathtaking ride near one of the region’s most spectacular landmarks at Scotts Bluff National Monument at Gering.
Barbara Johnston
GETTING STARTED
The Oregon Trail stretches 2,000 miles, yet since the 19th century many found the heart of its natural beauty to be here in Western Nebraska. This road of wilderness offered an uncertain fate when fabled frontiersmen like Kit Carson drove those first wagon trains from Missouri in 1842. No doubt, their favorite treacherous tourist stops had to be in the Platte Valley of Trails West Country. It was in the majestic western region of Nebraska where the Oregon Trail’s most famous landmarks were seen at Ash Hollow, Courthouse and Jail rocks, and Scotts Bluff National Monument. The end of the tragic trail came early for many, as one out of 10 of those emigrants were buried along the way during the six-month trek. The beauty remains, but now the journey is filled with bliss. Sail through the 155-mile journey on the Western Trails Historic and Scenic Byway. The drive will take just hours, but a lifetime of memories await.
TRAILS WEST
Gering • Scottsbluff Mitchell • Henry Minatare • Bayard • Morrill Bridgeport • Lewellen Lisco & Broadwater • Oshkosh
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1
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7
3 4
WELCOME CENTERS/ REST AREAS
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5 8
1 9 1
Attractions 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
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Western Trails Scenic Byway Riverside Discovery Center Scotts Bluff National Monument Robidoux Trading Post Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area Lake Minatare North Platte National Wildlife Refuge Chimney Rock Courthouse Rock & Jail Rock Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge Goose hunting Capital Ash Hollow State Park
Gering
Historians know little about Hiram Scott, the fur trapper who died in 1828 near the bluff that came to bear his name. And though Scotts Bluff National Monument is in Scotts Bluff County, it is in the city of Gering rather than Scottsbluff. No matter. To simplify things, folks around here call it “The Monument,” a name as matter-of-fact as its Indian name, Ma-a-pa-te, which means “hill that is hard to go around.” Wagon trains from the Missouri River reached it only after two months of hard travel. Rising 800 feet above the valley floor, the bluff is sometimes taken for a small mountain, which it is not. Mountains are pushed up from below; Scotts Bluff is what remains of the ancient High Plains that were eroded by rivers over millions of years. It is part of the scenic Wildcat Hills. 34 • Journey to Western Nebraska 2014
Atop the bluff on a clear day, one can see Chimney Rock to the southeast and Wyoming’s Laramie Range to the west. From the bluff, a two-mile-long Union Pacific train looks tiny as it rolls along toward Mitchell. You can drive to the top from the Visitor Center and Oregon Trail Museum, but if you have the stamina, hiking the winding trail up the bluff ’s side is more of an adventure. Seeing the bluff ’s walls up close is spectacular, and at one point the trail passes through a narrow, rocky tunnel carved through part of the bluff itself. The Monument is three miles west of Gering on the Old Oregon Trail. It is open daily 8 a.m.-7 p.m. from Memorial Day through Labor Day and closes at 5 p.m. the rest of the year. Admission is $5 per vehicle. (308) 436-9700. Just east of the Monument on the Old Oregon Trail, the Legacy of the Plains Museum shows visitors the history of the valley and the development of High Plains agriculture. The 110-acre site has exhibits ranging from horse-drawn implements and steam engines to conservation tillage and the sugar beet industry. A 1930s farmstead has been moved on-site to interpret that period.
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During the Harvest Festival on the third weekend of September, volunteers demonstrate farm practices of the past. Visitors can harvest potatoes to take home, or try their hand pitching bundles of wheat into the thresher. The museum is open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 1-5 p.m. Sunday, mid-May through mid-September, or by appointment offseason. (308) 436-1989. Across the road from the museum and overlooking the monument is the City of Gering’s Five Rocks Amphitheater, which shows movies on summer evenings. Concerts, car shows and other community events are also held at the open-air venue. (308) 436-0056. Nearby is Monument Shadows Golf Course, a challenging 18-hole course enhanced by outstanding views in its setting at the base of Scotts Bluff National Monument. The course features include a driving range, clubhouse and cart storage. To get there, go 1 1/2 miles north of the intersection of Five Rocks Road and the Old Oregon Trail in Gering, then turn west on Country Club Road and south on Clubhouse Drive. (308) 635-2277. The Ever Green House has the only producing fig tree in Western Nebraska. (308) 635-3089.
Jorn Olsen
There are many magical images inside the Midwest Theater’s movie palace, but spectacular moving pictures are also found by just walking about the Scotts Bluff County landscape.
Entrance to the road is two miles south of Gering on Highway 71. For travelers seeking entertainment of a faster variety, the Hi-Way 92 Raceway Park, two miles east of Gering on Highway 92, has stock car races Friday and Saturday nights all summer. It is one of only two asphalt tracks in Nebraska. (308) 436-7223. For more information on Gering, contact the Gering Convention & Visitors Bureau. (800) 245-0717.
Scottsbluff Barbara Johnston
The Wildcat Hills, pine-covered bluffs that rise abruptly from the plains, are some of Nebraska’s most ruggedly beautiful country. Eight miles south of Gering on Highway 71, Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area and Nature Center offers hiking trails, picnic facilities and cross country skiing. The Nature Center has an auditorium, displays and educational opportunities in ecology, biology and geology. (308) 436-3777. Buffalo Creek State Wildlife Area offers hiking, fishing and abundant wildlife. From the Gering exit, take Highway 71 south 4 miles, then go east 2 3/4 miles on County Road W. Cedar Canyon Wildlife Management Area is home to a herd of more than 40 bighorn sheep. The herd was established in 2001 when 22 bighorns were trapped in
Colorado and released in Cedar Canyon. To get there, go 4 miles west of Highway 71 on Carter Canyon Road, then 1 1/2 miles south on County Road 17, and continue one mile west to parking area. In 1851, Plains Indians brought their furs to Robidoux Trading Post (pronounced ROO-bi-doo). In the early days of the Oregon Trail, it was one of the first signs of civilization after many weeks on the prairie. The sod-roofed building has been reconstructed with 100-year-old hand-hewn logs and period furnishings. It is located in beautiful Carter Canyon, the original Oregon Trail route before travelers began using Mitchell Pass at Scotts Bluff National Monument. The winding, 23-mile Carter Canyon Road takes you through rugged country, past pioneer graves and to the trading post.
You’d expect to find wildlife in the rugged country around Scottsbluff. You wouldn’t expect exotic species such as chimpanzees, otters, tigers, lions or varieties of tropical birds. You’ll find them at Riverside Discovery Center, which is home to more than 200 animals representing more than 70 species. The animals live in simulated natural habitats, and include endangered or rare species such as the red pandas, Bengal tigers and several primate species native to South America. Special exhibits include the Moose Woods, Lion/Tiger Complex, Chimpanzee Conservation Center and a walk-through aviary. When visiting in the summer, bring suits and flip-flops to enjoy the Splash-pad, a zerodepth water feature that keeps you cool with a refreshing spray. The 23-acre facility includes a natural history museum and children’s museum Trails West • 35
Who needs a return to the moon when a thrilling journey across the oddly awesome beauty of the Wildcat Hills is always an adventurous mission to lure travelers.
Christopher Amundson
and is on South Beltline Highway, half a mile west of Highway 71. (308) 6306236. Riverside Campground, open May through September, is nearby. (308) 630-6238. The Westmoor Pool is another familyfriendly attraction in Scottsbluff. Located at Avenue I and 20th Street, the pool is open in the summer and includes water slides, water cannons and a lazy river. (308) 632-8881. The West Nebraska Arts Center,
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located in the historic Carnegie Library at 106 E. 18th St., is a hub of activity for painting, sculpture, artists-in-residence and the performing arts (308) 632-2226. Affiliated programs are Theatre West, a summer theater company, and the historic Midwest Theater, a grand, old movie palace of yesteryear in downtown Scottsbluff. (308) 632-4311. Alongside the North Platte River and Scotts Bluff National Monument, walking and biking trails connect the cities of
Scottsbluff, Gering and Terrytown. Monument Valley Pathways includes 6.3 miles of trails; a total of 26 miles are planned. In 1902, surveyors for the Burlington Railroad discovered an old wagon tire inscribed with the name of Rebecca Winters and the year 1852. The iron tire, they learned, marked the grave of a Mormon pioneer who died of cholera along the trail. The wagon tire is part of the monument that tells her story. The Rebecca Winters Grave is alongside Highway 26, 1 1/2 miles east of Scottsbluff. In Western Nebraska, the human population is sparse and people value wideopen spaces. Scottsbluff, with nearly 15,000 residents, is the Panhandle’s largest city. Combined with sister city Gering
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38 • Journey to Western Nebraska 2014
(pop. 10,500) and with Terrytown (pop. 650) sandwiched between, the Scottsbluff/Gering metro area is the largest population center in Western Nebraska. For more information about Scottsbluff, contact the Scottsbluff/Gering United Chamber of Commerce. (308) 632-2133.
Mitchell
Mitchell is the usual point of departure for Agate Fossil Beds National Monument, 30 miles north on Highway 29. One of the area’s most unique businesses is Brown Sheep Company, which makes woolen yarn that is highly prized by crafters nationwide. (308) 635-2198. Scenic Knolls Golf Course, a public, nine-hole course, is two miles north of the intersections of Highways 26 and 29. Camping is available, with electrical and water hookups. (308) 623-2468. For more information on Mitchell, contact the city offices. (308) 623-1523.
Nebraska Tourism
The Lake Minatare Lighthouse was built by the Veteran’s Conservation Corps in 1939.
Henry
Touching the Wyoming state line, Henry is Nebraska’s westernmost town. One mile south, Stateline Island is part of the North Platte National Wildlife Refuge and offers nature observation and hiking. The 130-acre refuge is open daylight hours year-round. For bird watchers, it is best during the fall migration of waterfowl. One mile east of Henry is the place where in 1847 Brigham Young called a special prayer circle on behalf of the westbound Mormon pioneers. The location is known as Prayer Bluffs to this day. It can be seen from Highway 26 and is accessible by a service road.
Minatare
With more than 2,000 acres of water, Lake Minatare is a good-sized lake, but not so big that it needs a lighthouse. It has one anyway, one of just seven inland lighthouses in the United States. Built entirely of native stone, the tower has a winding stairway that ascends four stories to the top. There’s no light in the lighthouse, but it offers an impressive 360-degree view of the tree-lined lake and grounds. The Lake Minatare Lighthouse is a legacy of the Great Depression, built in the late 1930s by the Veterans Conservation Corps, a New Deal agency that provided jobs to unemployed veterans. (308) 783-2911. Located seven miles north of the town of Minatare, the lake is a state recreation area that offers swimming, boating, fishing, camping and picnicking. It has four boat ramps, 52 electrical camping sites, 100 primitive camping sites, and modern restroom and shower facilities. A state park permit is required. Supplies and bait available. Lake Minatare is part of the North Platte National Wildlife Refuge, which also includes nearby Winters Creek Lake and Lake Alice, and Stateline Island near Henry. All are good bird-watching areas. To provide undisturbed habitat during migration season, all but Stateline Island are closed Oct. 15-Jan. 14. (308) 635-7851. Trails West • 39
Bayard
Visible to wagon trains for several days, Chimney Rock was the most noted landmark along the Oregon Trail. With a 120-foot spire and standing 325 feet from tip to base, it was unlike anything the pioneers had ever seen. The landmark’s story is told at the Ethel and Christopher J. Abbott Visitor Center at Chimney Rock National Historic Site. The center interprets the westward migration of the 19th century – the greatest voluntary mass migration in history – and the significance of Chimney Rock itself. It is 1 1/2 miles south of Highway 92 near Bayard and is open daily, year-round. (308) 586-2581. In town, the Bayard Chimney Rock Museum is a local history museum housed in a refurbished railroad depot at the south end of downtown. It is open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily during the summer and at other times by appointment.
40 • Journey to Western Nebraska 2014
Jorn Olsen
Gordon Howard and his Chimney Rock neighbor are both guardians of the region’s history.
Contact the Chimney Rock Visitor Center (see above) for more information. Chimney Rock Pioneer Crossing offers gift shops, snacks, a stocked fishing
hole, teepee sleeping, RV parking and hookups. Chimney Rock Golf Course, a nine-hole public course, is north of town. Flying Bee Beefmaster Ranch is
Trails West • 41
a 4,000-acre working cattle ranch that offers camping, cabins, bed-and-breakfast guest rooms, hiking and trail riding. Wagon ruts and remains of original sod houses are visible at the Chimney Rock Pony Express Station. The site is on private land two miles south of town on Highway 26, then 1 1/2 miles west on Oregon Trail Road. Call ahead for directions. (308) 586-1850. For more information, contact Bayard Area Development. (308) 586-1234.
Morrill
In 1851, 10,000 Plains Indians representing 10 tribes met with government officials near Horse Creek to negotiate a treaty. Never in recorded history had so many gathered at one spot on the Plains. From the government’s perspective, the treaty’s purpose was to ensure safe passage for people using the Oregon Trail and to stop intertribal warfare.
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R. Neibel, Nebraska DED
Waterskiing joins the four-season fun at the Bridgeport State Recreation Area.
As happened countless times, the government broke its part of the treaty almost immediately after it was signed. The Horse Creek Treaty Marker is 3 1/2 miles west of Morrill on Highway 26. Every July, Morrill’s Horse Creek Rendezvous commemorates the event.
Bridgeport
Courthouse Rock and Jail Rock are ruggedly beautiful and prominent in the history and legends of the area. Courthouse Rock rises 340 feet above the valley floor and got its name because of its blocky shape. Oregon Trail migrants
thought it looked like a courthouse; the smaller rock formation nearby was therefore the jail. They are the easternmost outliers of the Wildcat Hills. The story is told of a band of Skidi Pawnees who fled their enemies, the Sioux, by climbing Courthouse Rock. With cliffs on three sides and only one difficult path to the top, the Pawnee were trapped. The Sioux camped at the base of the rock and waited for their enemies to give up from thirst and hunger. But late at night, the Pawnees made a long rope from their pony lariats, quietly descended a cliff one by one and escaped. The area is five miles south of Bridgeport on Highway 88. You won’t need to ask directions. The rocks are visible for miles. The area is open year-round and charges no admission. Courthouse and Jail Rock Golf Club, a nine-hole public course, is nearby. Just off Highways 26 and 92 on the west edge of town, Bridgeport State Recreation Area offers primitive camping, hiking, fishing, swimming and waterskiing. It is open year-round. A state park entry permit is required. As its name indicates, the town of Bridgeport started with a bridge. Camp Clarke was the site of an early bridge across the North Platte River, built to serve gold rush travelers going to and from the Black Hills. When the railroad came through, the original site was abandoned in favor of a new bridge closer to the railroad. The new site became known as Bridgeport. The story of Camp Clarke and history of the area are displayed at the Pioneer Trails Museum at the north end of Main Street. It is open 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Memorial Day to Labor Day. Admission is free. (308) 262-0108. Travelers are welcome to use the facilities, including exercise room and shower, at Prairie Winds Community Center on North Main Street. For more information, contact the Bridgeport Chamber of Commerce. (308) 262-1825.
Lisco & Broadwater
Ancient Bluff Ruins is the most dramatic and extensive bluff formation
along the north side of the North Platte River. The three buttes were formed by erosion and were named by Mormons from England who thought they resembled ancient towers and castles from the old country. Trail ruts can be seen nearby.
Lewellen
Modern travelers descend into the North Platte Valley by an easy grade. Pioneers faced a steeper route. To this day, Windlass Hill at Ash Hollow State Park bears the scars from the iron-shod wheels of countless wagons that made the steep descent. The ruts have deepened into a little ravine. Visitors can follow a paved walking path to the top of the hill. An old sod house stands at the bottom of the hill, enclosed with a fence with a wagon wheel gate. “Close gate, please,” a sign reads. “Otherwise cattle get in and rub the old house down.” Because of its abundant water and trees, Ash Hollow was a favorite resting place for travelers. The park offers camping, picnicking and a visitor center. Hiking trails lead to a cave once inhabited by American Indians and relics of ancient tribes have been found nearby. A century-old stone schoolhouse is also on park grounds. The park is 1 1/2 miles southeast of Lewellen on Highway 26. A state park entry permit is required. Call for state park operating hours. (308) 778-5651. Rachel Pattison, a newlywed, was just 18 years old when she died of cholera along the trail in 1849. Her grave, one of few marked graves along the trail, is at Ash Hollow Cemetery, a half mile west of the park entrance, east of Lewellen. A drive north brings you to the Clear Creek Wildlife Refuge. West of town 1 1/2 miles along Highway 26 is the Blue Water Battlefield marker, a raid led by Gen. William Harney that destroyed a Lakota village. Experience life on the Oregon Trail the Friday and Saturday of Father’s Day weekend each year at the Ash Hollow Pageant, an outdoor performance using historical diaries and music. Lewellen, at the west end of Lake McConaughy, features The Most Unlikely Place, a former silent movie theater built in 1908 that is now an eclec-
tic bistro and cafe with a spectacular art gallery that would be right at home in Manhattan’s SoHo district. The owner glides about the vast maple floor on roller skates, serving beverages and tasty lunches to visitors who lounge on sofas and comfy chairs surrounded by high-end art as well as a mummified snapping turtle and an enchanting hollow cottonwood log. Farther down on that same Main
Trails West • 43
Christopher Amundson
Whimsical fun is on the move in downtown Lewellen at The Most Unlikely Place, where classy art and food is served up at this bistro/ gallery. Owner Cynthia Miller keeps things rolling for guests, including her artist brother-in-law, Rex Miller.
Street you’ll find a new park that leads you to the 17 Ranch Winery. Visitors can tour the wine making and top off the visit with a taste of the finished product.
Oshkosh
Summer is the peak season for Western Nebraska tourism, but Oshkosh is also popular in fall. It’s the Goose Hunting Capital of Nebraska. Oshkosh also is a point of departure for Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge, located deep in the remote and beautiful Sandhills Lakes country. The 46,000-acre refuge is 30 miles north of Oshkosh and includes 21 lakes and numerous ponds that are fed by an aquifer below the hills. Crescent Lake was established primarily as a nesting and migratory bird refuge – Canada geese, snow geese, grouse and pheasants, prairie chickens, owls, golden eagles and most species of ducks. About 200 bird species in all have been observed there in the past 30 years. During fall migration, more than 200,000 waterfowl, and as many as 20 bald eagles, occupy the refuge.
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Attention hunters, the area is rich with sharp-tailed grouse, ring-necked pheasants, mule deer and white-tailed deer. Anglers enjoy the lakes’ walleye, crappie, yellow perch, largemouth bass and carp. Other local attractions include the Oshkosh Swimming Pool, 200 E. First St., which offers free swimming in a heated pool; the Oshkosh Country Club, a ninehole course near the North Platte River, one mile south of town on Highway 27; and the Garden County Museum. The museum has two buildings, the Silverhill Theatre (an old opera house) at 501 W. First St., and the Rock School, a century-old stone schoolhouse at 215 W. Avenue G. The museum houses pioneer and Native American artifacts, fossils and a stuffed bird collection with more than 300 specimens. North of Oshkosh, Blue Creek Lodge features a 3,200-square-foot hunting lodge on 23 square miles of ranch and farm ground that’s available for hunting, fishing, wildlife watching and other activities. (308) 772-9912. For more information on Oshkosh, contact the Oshkosh Chamber of Commerce. (308) 772-4500 or (308) 772-4545.
Hunting and Fishing BIG GAME HUNTING in Western Nebraska can challenge the most experienced sportsmen. Whether you’re proficient with the atlatl, bow, muzzle loader or a modern firearm, Western Nebraska has the habitat and wildlife diversity for your big game quest. Deer, turkey, pronghorn and elk are abundant. Occasional bighorn sheep permits are available. The Nebraska National Forest’s Bessey Ranger District, the Pine Ridge Ranger District and the Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest provide hunting opportunities, as does the Oglala National Grasslands. Hunting is also allowed at the Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge, Valentine National Wildlife Refuge and Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge. Wildlife management areas and some state parks, as well as Conservation Reserve Program lands provide additional access to hunters. On some of these lands a state park permit is needed, along with hunting permits, stamps and licenses. Private landowners and outfitters provide other opportunities.
Box Butte Reservoir, Whitney Lake, Lake Oliver, Lake Maloney, Merritt Reservoir, Lake Minatare and Lake Ogallala. Trout prowl the waters at Bordeaux Creek, Carter P. Johnson Lake, Nine Mile Creek, Chadron Creek, Soldier Creek, Grabel Ponds, Buffalo Creek, Bessey
Fish Pond, Lake Ogallala and portions of the Middle Loup River and Dismal Rivers. Landowner permission is necessary to enter private lands. For information on hunting, fishing and state park permits, go to www.OutdoorNebraska.org or call (402) 471-0641.
BIRD HUNTING in Western Nebraska is equally rewarding. From North Platte to Ogallala, Lewellen to Oshkosh and west along the river to Scottsbluff, the waterfowl hunting is some of the best in the world. Pheasant and grouse are pursued on the High Plains and throughout the Sandhills and doves can be ambushed near sunflower fields and ponds. Bobwhite quail dwell in woodlots and field edges. FISHING in Western Nebraska can range from casting across small farm ponds to hitting the big reservoirs. The largest body of water on which to fish is Lake McConaughy. It’s home to striped bass, walleye, northern pike, bass, catfish and panfish. Other hot spots include Trails West • 45
Sandhills and
Scenic Rivers
46 • Journey to Western Nebraska 2014
Christopher Amundson
GETTING STARTED
You’ll find sand and hills on almost every continent, but you’ll only find the Sandhills in Nebraska. Drive on through this area of grass-stabilized sand dunes and your jaw may drop down to Kansas as these towering grassy hills resemble endless waves rolling in from the sea. Running through its northern shores is the precious Niobrara River, a bucket-list float for anyone who has ever put a paddle to water, and recognized as one of the 10 best canoeing rivers in the United States. Hills become tidal waves of hand-planted trees at the Nebraska National Forest near Halsey and Thedford. Romantics and rodeo queens love Valentine. Look for Dobby’s Frontier town, and the halfburied corpses of old cars at Carhenge, both at Alliance. Heavenly cattle ranches and pristine lakes beautify this region of more than 19,000 square miles of Sandhills and Scenic Rivers Country. Sandhills and Scenic Rivers • 47
SANDHILLS & SCENIC RIVERS
Alliance • Hemingford Hyannis • Ashby • Mullen Tryon • Arthur • Seneca Thedford • Halsey Merriman • Nenzel Cody • Valentine
Alan J. Bartels
The Central Park Fountain in Alliance has provided relief from hot Sandhills summers since 1935. It was renovated in 2007 and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Equipped with halogen lights, the fountain complements the starry Sandhills night sky in the evenings.
Alliance
Celebrating 125 years since its founding, Alliance has a long lineage of agriculture, business, industry and railroading. Rogues, rascals and visionaries have colored the town’s history and distinguished the community. Alliance has grown from a frontier town in the American West to 9,000 residents and a variety of amenities and attractions. Located prominently at the intersection of Highways 2 and Highway 385, Alliance is the largest city for 50 miles in any direction. Two-and-a-half miles north of Alliance on Highway 87, Carhenge is perhaps the strangest attraction in Nebraska. The full-scale replica of England’s famous Stonehenge is built entirely from old cars. Local resident Jim Reinders got the idea
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in 1982 when his family gathered at the family farm after his father died. They decided to build a tribute to his father and gathered five years later to begin. Carhenge is built from 38 cars, painted gray. Some are half-buried, others are welded together, and some jut from the ground at odd angles – mimicking the present semi-ruined configuration of Stonehenge. In recent years, more automobile sculptures have been added. Just a short walk from Carhenge – fun, quirky pieces include “Spawning Salmon” (a car that looks like giant salmon bursting from the ground); and “The Fourd Seasons” (representing the four stages of wheat grown in the area). Admission to the grounds is free, and there’s a small visitor center and gift shop.
Back in town, displays at the 19,000-square-foot Knight Museum and Sandhills Center span many aspects of western life, including an extensive display of Native American artifacts, railroad memorabilia from the 1880s to present, military history from the cavalry to Alliance’s World War II air base, homestead and ranch life, and the array of ethnic cultures that shaped the area. The museum’s research center houses the largest collection of genealogy material in the area. Volunteers are available for one-on-one assistance in perusing the thousands of records available. To get there, turn north on Yellowstone Avenue from highways 385 and 2. The museum is at 908 Yellowstone. (308) 762-2384. The Carnegie Arts Center is a gallery
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WELCOME CENTERS/ REST AREAS
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Middle Loup River
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Dismal River
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Attractions 1 2 3
featuring local and regional artists, gifts and a sculpture garden. This center hosts renowned art shows such as original Rembrandt and Albrecht Durer prints. It is housed in a historic 1911 building at 204 W. Fourth St. Open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday and 1-4 p.m. Sunday. Closed holidays. (308) 762-4571. Dobby’s Frontier Town, 320 E. 25th St., is a frontier town with buildings from the 1890s through Prohibition. All are filled with period furnishings. Buildings include a general store and meat market, a mortuary (complete with a glasstopped coffin), a log cabin built by the area’s first black homesteader, an early gas station, a replica 1880s post office, a Chinese laundry, a saloon, a bootlegger’s cabin and a bordello. Call ahead for hours. (308) 762-4321. With 140 acres of public space, Alliance is proud of its extensive park sys-
tem. Central Park is the city’s oldest, and its Central Park Fountain is on the National Register of Historic Places. Other Alliance parks include Laing Lake and Bower Park, and there are also several mini-parks throughout the city. The Central Park Fountain is in operation Memorial Day weekend through Oct. 1. After dark, it features a lights-and-water display. Nearby, at 11th and Niobrara, Sallows Conservatory and Arboretum features tropical and sub-tropical plants. Paths wind throughout the flowers of the Sunken Gardens. North of town, Laing Lake Park has ducks, geese and good fishing from shoreline or pier. Railway buffs can stop at the corner of Laing Lake Park and visit Locomotive 719 with a vintage coal car. The park, bordered by 18th Street, Box Butte Avenue, Burnham Drive and Emerson Avenue, also has two miles of walking trails.
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Box Butte Reservoir Carnegie Arts Center Knight Museum and Sandhills Center Carhenge Dobby’s Frontier Town Nebraska Veterans Cemetery Sandhills Movie Drive-In Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge Arthur Bowring Sandhills Ranch State Historical Park Merritt Reservoir Valentine National Wildlife Refuge Niobrara National Scenic River Smith Falls State Park Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge Canoeing, tubing, kayaking Nebraska National Forest – Bessey Ranger District Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest
Sandhills and Scenic Rivers • 49
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During World War II, Alliance was home to the Alliance Air Base, a site chosen for its proximity to the Sandhills, which were considered excellent for parachute and ammunition training. The 507th Parachute Infantry Regiment trained here before landing in Normandy hours before the D-Day invasion. As a result, a large number of D-Day casualties were known personally to the people of Alliance. Today, the former air base is the Alliance Municipal Airport. In 2010, in tribute to those gallant heroes, Nebraska Veterans Cemetery was opened at the former Alliance Army Air Field on 20 acres once used as a troop training field. These 20 acres rest near the airport, which is east of Alliance, south of Highway 2. (877) 402-7990. The Sallows Military Museum, 1100 Niobrara St., features artifacts from the air base and Box Butte County history from all military branches. It is open 1-5 p.m. Monday-Saturday, and by appointment. (308) 762-2385 or (308) 762-2384.
Barbara Johnston
With plenty of parking available, Carhenge is one of Nebraska’s most visited attractions.
Alliance’s downtown brick-lined main street, Box Butte Avenue, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is an active Historic Main Street organization. There are numerous shops, restaurants and other businesses
in the downtown district. For more information please contact the Alliance Visitors’ Bureau at (877) 269-8776 or the Alliance Chamber of Commerce at (800) 738-0648. www.VisitAlliance.com
Sun 1- 4 p.m. (May-Sept)
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Sandhills and Scenic Rivers • 51
With opportunities on both public and private lands, the scenic and serene Nebraska Sandhills region is a camper’s paradise.
Hemingford
Hemingford is 18 miles northwest of Alliance and is the hometown of Miss Nebraska Rodeo 2014, Gina Jespersen. The town features year-round holiday events, including the Harvest Moon Festival in October and the Avenue of Flags. Hemingford displays more than 200 American flags along its streets during various holidays, such as July 4th weekend, Flag Day, Memorial Day, Veteran’s Day and others. Each historic flag once draped the casket of a veteran from the area, some of whom served in conflicts dating back to the Civil War. All are put up by dedicated volunteers. In early August every year, the Box Butte County Fair, one of the state’s largest,
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Nebraska Tourism
takes place here. During the Christmas season, Hemingford also displays its Christmas Diorama. This pictorial story of Christmas began in 1955 as the dream of Rev. W. James Hoare. He died two years later but Hemingford’s faithful have kept the dream alive and added to it. The drive-thru diorama, depicting scenes painted on wood panels, now stretches nearly three football fields in length. Near Hemingford is the Box Butte Res-
ervoir, a 1,600-acre lake and state recreational area on the Niobrara River. The reservoir is just south of the majestic Pine Ridge. It offers excellent fishing, boating, swimming, windsurfing and sailing, and is part of a state recreation area with picnic areas, hiking and primitive camping. From Hemingford, go 10 miles north on Box Butte Avenue. (308) 665-2903. For more information on Hemingford, contact the Hemingford Chamber of Commerce. (308) 487-3300.
Hyannis
The Grant County Museum at the county courthouse, 105 E. Harrison, displays area history and oddities such as props from John Wayne’s stunt man and a world-class barbed wire collection. Open 1-4 p.m. Tuesday-Wednesday, or by appointment. (308) 458-2371.
Ashby
The village of Ashby is big on creativity. Ashby Fun Day brings the regional community together each June for a day of fun and games, barbecue, music, dancing and more. (308) 577-6766. Just passing by? Cross the tracks and find a treat at the old soda fountain cafe on Main St. There are no sundaes or malts at CaLinda’s Pot Shop and Art Gallery, but you can shop owner Linda Lacy’s creations of clay and canvas. Never made pottery of your own? Stop in and throw your own pot. (308) 577-6766.
Mullen
West of Thedford on Highway 2, Mullen sits at the geographic heart of the Sandhills. For a region that is known for its striking beauty, it’s appropriate, although surprising, that one of the world’s best golf courses is here. Sand Hills Golf Club is an 18-hole private course designed by pro golfer Ben Crenshaw and design partner Bill Coore. Golf Digest ranks Sand Hills number one in the Modern List. To get to the course, go 12 miles south of Mullen on Highway 97 to mile marker 55, then go west three miles. Visitors are welcome at the clubhouse, but to golf, players must either be members or sponsored guests. The Nebraska Sandhills are also home to the Dismal River Club, another world-class private course. Designed by Jack Nicklaus, the Dismal River Club is links golf in its purest form: rugged, windblown, hard and fast. The course is located two miles south and 17 miles southwest of Mullen. (308) 546-2900. Mullen also has a fine public nine-hole course on the west edge of town called Mullen Golf Club. (308) 546-2446.
Experienced canoers and kayakers can test their skills on the Dismal River south of Mullen. The Dismal is a fastflowing, spring-fed river with plenty of twists and sunken debris that make it a natural obstacle course. Along the trip, canoers and kayakers are treated to a swim in a large spring from which water and sand upswell from the aquifer below. People looking for a family-friendly river trip can float or paddle down the Middle Loup River just north of Mullen. The Middle Loup also is spring-fed and has relatively calm waters as it meanders through wide, sloping Sandhills canyons. Canoe and kayak rental is available for both rivers. Stock tank rental is available for the Middle Loup. Both rivers have campsites and eventually flow along the north and south sides of the Nebraska National Forest toward Dunning, where they converge into the Loup River. For more information on Mullen or the rivers, call (888) 278-6167. Dismal River Outfitters is a big-game hunting ranch with more than 50,000 acres
Dobby’s Frontier Town THERE’S A WEATHERED old sign at Dobby’s Frontier Town in Alliance. It reads “Leave your guns at the jail.” The sign wasn’t needed. Kenneth “Dobby” Lee had a disarming personality; and his enthusiasm for life, and for preserving the past, was contagious. Whenever he heard rumblings of old Frontier buildings being razed, Dobby would spring into action, often buying them and moving them to Alliance with the help of his son, Dennis. First, his family joined him on his historic quest to preserve the old buildings of the Nebraska frontier. When faced with the prospect of losing Dobby’s Frontier Town, the community of Alliance formed an alliance, and responded with guns blazing to save it. Even though he’s been gone for more than four years, because of Dobby Lee’s vision of the future to preserve the past, he will remain as a brother-in-arms to future generations.
Alan J. Bartels
There’s a historic time to be had at Dobby’s Frontier Town and its 19 historic buildings in Alliance. Sandhills and Scenic Rivers • 53
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Sandhills summertime celebrations often include racing various animals or soap box derby cars. Amid a passel of pint-sized passengers, Tami Swanson takes a wagonload of friends on a ride through Arthur.
Bobbi and Steve Olson
available for bison, elk, whitetail deer, mule deer and turkey hunting. The ranch is 14 miles south of Mullen. (308) 546-0567.
Tryon
The museum of the McPherson County Historical Society includes a historic bank, sod house and area artifacts. Open by appointment. (308) 587-2376.
Arthur
About 40 miles west of Tryon on Highway 92, Arthur is the only town and county seat of Arthur County. The ranching town boasts what is believed to be the world’s smallest courthouse. The 26-by-28-foot white frame building was built a year after Arthur County seceded from McPherson County in 1913. Though it still stands, it was replaced with a larger courthouse in 1961. The former Pilgrim Holiness Church is thought to be the world’s only church made
from baled straw. The Mill Camp Log Cabin in the city park was built by William “Buffalo Bill” Cody when he and two of his business partners owned a ranch here. A pond in the city park is affectionately called Frog Pond because locals enjoy listening to and catching its frogs in the summer.
Seneca
On Main Street, Cattleman’s Restaurant has been serving locals and travelers for more than 20 years. Open Thursday-Sunday, (308) 639-3242. Also, the Northern Plains Studio has Native American and western art for viewing and for sale, by appointment only. (308) 639-3227.
Thedford
Thedford is a crossroads community along Highway 2, from which Highway 83 leads north to Valentine or south to North Platte. This is ranching coun-
try and rodeos are held on weekends throughout the summer. The Thedford Art Gallery, 509 Court St., sells art, photography, sculptures and pottery. Open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday, May 1-Dec. 30; open the rest of the year 1-5 p.m. or by appointment. (308) 645-2396. There’s also the Yellow Calf Studio, which shows and sells sculptures by appointment. (308) 645-2537. One block west of the art gallery, the Thomas County Historical Museum depicts Sandhills history, displaying artifacts used by settlers. Open 10 a.m.-noon and 2-4 p.m. Monday-Friday, Memorial Day-September. (308) 645-2477 or (308) 645-2489. Thedford Golf Course is a nine-hole grass public course overlooking the Middle Loup River. Cart rental available. (308) 645-2233.
Halsey
The most popular route through the Sandhills is Nebraska Highway 2, dubbed the Sandhills Journey Scenic Byway. For the westbound traveler, Highway 2 heads northwest from Grand Island, passes the Nebraska National Forest at Halsey, crosses the lake country of the western Sandhills, then exits the region near Alliance and turns north toward the Pine Ridge. This byway is rated in the top 10 scenic routes in the United States and is listed as one of the highways to drive in “1000 Places to See Before You Die.” The Bessey Ranger District of the Nebraska National Forest covers more than 90,000 acres, and is the largest Sandhills and Scenic Rivers • 55
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Nenzel and Cody
hand-planted forest in the world. It is a favorite place for camping, ATV-ing, horseback riding, hiking and picnicking. The rangers’ lookout tower offers a panoramic view, and the Bessey Nursery is the nation’s oldest federal tree nursery. The forest is open year-round.
Merriman
The early settlers considered the Sandhills an inhospitable desert, but they eventually realized an area that once supported vast herds of bison would make excellent cattle country. The history of Sandhills ranch life is on display at Arthur Bowring Ranch State Historical Park, three miles north and east of Merriman off Highway 20. A visitor center houses artifacts and memorabilia of early ranching days. The corrals, barns, bunkhouses and other buildings are preserved as a working ranch. Buildings and grounds are open 8
Alan J. Bartels
The fire tower at the Nebraska National Forest watches over a forest of fun near Halsey.
a.m.-8 p.m., Memorial Day weekendLabor Day, and 9 a.m.-sunset the rest of the year. A state park permit is required. (308) 282-0730. Cottonwood Lake State Recreation Area is a half-mile east of Merriman on Highway 20 and a half-mile south. Fishing, boating and tent camping are available. A state park permit is required. (308) 684-3428.
For someone speeding by these neighboring communities on Highway 20 it may not be apparent, but there’s a lot going on in north central Cherry County. Near Nenzel, the four Nollette brothers have formed a partnership resulting in the perfect family communion. Lou and Neal are Catholic priests. Tim and Greg are both Agriculture Education teachers. The Nollette Brothers now offer travelers a taste of the Sandhills and the Good Life from their Niobrara Valley Vineyards and they’re developing a loyal herd of wine-loving followers. Nollette’s 2010 Boss Cow, a blend of three grape varieties grown on the family’s Diamond Lazy J Ranch and crafted by master winemaker George Johnson, won silver medals in national and international wine competitions in 2013. (402) 823-4131. At George Paul Vinegar in Cody,
Sandhills and Scenic Rivers • 57
George Johnson makes traditionallycrafted fruit and wine vinegars from his ecologically “green” strawbale-constructed building at 302 East Nebraska Ave. One of less than a handful of artisan vinegar makers in the western hemisphere, Johnson’s products, some made from the Nollette’s grapes, can take up to five years to fully mature. Available in the country’s most expensive restaurants, these Nebraskanoriginal gourmet vinegars are reasonably priced and for sale on site. Tours are available, please call ahead. (402) 823-4067. For more than a decade, residents of Cody had to make a round trip of 76 miles to buy necessities. Thanks to local school students, community members and innovative partnerships to finance it, Cody now has a thriving market on Highway 20. The students of Cody-Kilgore High School helped build the strawbale Circle C Market. They also operate it, deliver groceries to residents several days a week, and run the store’s website. Whether you’re coming or going, the Circle C Market has all of the snacks, drinks, groceries and convenience items any traveler could want. (402) 823-4099.
Valentine
With 2,800 residents, Valentine is the largest city on the eastern side of Sandhills and Scenic Rivers Country. Along its wide Main Street, downtown Valentine is home to arts and craft shops, bookstores, a cyber cafe, famous steakhouses and one of the area’s largest western wear stores. Three museums display the area’s history. The “Heart City” is near numerous attractions of the northern Sandhills. Among them is the Niobrara National Scenic River, a National Parks Service river. Each summer, tens of thousands of visitors canoe, tube and kayak in the river. It flows over bedrock for much of its course, with numerous riffles, chutes and easy rapids. Thanks to spring-fed tributaries, the river has reliable water levels even in dry years. It winds through deep canyons with high cliffs, pine-topped hills and many waterfalls. Depending on your ambitions, trips can last from an 58 • Journey to Western Nebraska 2014
The rodeo is a big draw in Thedford during the Thomas County Fair. July 24-27, 2014.
hour to several days. The Niobrara River is not only Nebraska’s most popular canoeing river, but it’s also among the top 10 canoeing rivers in the United States, according to Backpacker magazine. National Geographic lists a Niobrara River trip among its top 100 adventures. From Valentine, head east on Highway 12. Numerous country roads lead south from the highway to the river. In town and along the river
Mark Harris
between Valentine and Norden, you’ll find plenty of outfitters, campgrounds and boat launches. The Niobrara was designated a National Scenic River by Congress in 1991; however, much of the land along the river is privately owned. Please respect property rights. Five miles east of Valentine on Highway 12, Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge is home to herds of bison and elk, as well as more than 230 spe-
cies of birds. Because of its location near the center of the continent, the refuge is on the flight path for many species of migratory birds. The refuge includes a pine-dotted canyon with nature trails and a favorite “putting-in” spot for Niobrara River canoeists. A 3.5-mile driving tour lets you view the herds up close. Just remember – while near the herds, stay in your car. A bull bison can weigh a ton and moves with astonishing speed. As the name indicates, the refuge is the site of a frontier fort. Fort Niobrara was active from 1879-1906 and was used as a cavalry remount station until 1911. Long before that, however, the grounds were home to long-jawed mastodons, giant bison and three-toed horses. Fossils are displayed in the visitor center, which is open 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. daily, Memorial Day-Labor Day; and Monday through Friday the rest of the year. Admission is free. (402) 376-3789.
Sleep in the Raine Tim and Dana invite you to join them at Raine Motel for a relaxing stay while exploring Valentine. Also enjoy the in-house restaurant and lounge with nightly specials and some of the best food around.
• Complimentary breakfast • Microwaves and refigerators • Free long distance calls • Free high-speed WiFi • Vizio HD TV’s • Pet friendly • Golf Packages
Reservations only 800-999-3066 • 402-376-2030 618 West Hwy 20 • Valentine • sleepintheraine.com
Sandhills and Scenic Rivers • 59
Continuing northeast on Highway 12, Smith Falls State Park is 15 miles from Valentine. Then head four miles south on the marked county road. The spring-fed falls, Nebraska’s tallest, drop 70 feet and flow out to the Niobrara River. Swimmers can stand under the falls and cool off on a summer’s day. The short hike to Smith Falls is half the fun. A historic iron truss bridge open to pedestrians only spans the Niobrara River. A trail leads across a grassy field into a secluded canyon. At the end of a wooden-planked trail is the waterfall. On the south side of the river, the Jim McAllister Nature Trail is a self-guided hiking trail that leads through a portion of the Niobrara River Valley. Known as the “biological crossroads of the Great Plains,” this stretch of the Niobrara is a place where eastern and western species of plants and animals overlap. But you don’t have to be a biologist to appreciate the beauty of the valley’s natural diversity. The park is open April 1-Nov. 30. Camping is available. Office hours are 8 a.m.-8 p.m., Memorial Day-Labor Day. A state park permit is required. (402) 376-1306. The Cherry County Historical Society Museum, at the corner of Main Street and Highway 20, is open 1-5 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, Memorial DayLabor Day, or by appointment. (402) 376-2015. Centennial Hall, at Third and Macomb, is the 1897 Valentine High School, the oldest surviving high school building in Nebraska. Today, it houses museum exhibits in all 12 rooms. It is open 1-5 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, the first weekend in May through Labor Day, or by appointment. (402) 376-2418. Valentine was once the trailhead for cowboys bringing their cattle in from the Sandhills. They sold the cattle at market, and a rail line moved their cattle to cities back east. Today, the railroad is gone but the rail bed is the Cowboy Trail, used for hiking and biking. When the crushed limestone trail is completed, it will be the nation’s longest continuous recreational trail, stretching 321 miles from Norfolk to Chadron. The trailhead at Valentine is downtown at Trailhead Park. Southeast of town, the trail crosses the Niobrara 60 • Journey to Western Nebraska 2014
Christopher Amundson
The Snake and Niobrara rivers offer stunning scenery, including many rocky waterfalls.
River on a spectacular 148-foot tall trestle bridge. The trail is open a half-hour before sunrise to a half-hour after sunset. Voluntary trail passes are $2/day or $10 for an annual pass from the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. (402) 376-2244. For more big splashes, head to the Valentine Family Aquatic Center, where a spiral water slide, cargo nets, lily pads and diving wells will provide hours of watery fun. Open 1-7 p.m. daily, June 1 through the end of August. Cost is $3 per person, per day. Family, activity and individual passes available. For information, call (402) 376-8019 or visit heartcitysports.com. Snake River Falls is 23 miles southwest of Valentine on Highway 97. It is open 8 a.m.-5 p.m. year-round. Admission is $1 for adults, 75 cents for children under 18. Continuing southwest on Highway 97, Merritt Reservoir State Recreation Area is five miles past the falls. The lake has nearly 3,000 acres of water and is one of the top trophy fisheries in the state. There is one resort at the lake, but otherwise it is undeveloped. The park is open year-round, though the peak season is May-September. A state park permit is required. Electrical and primitive camping available. (402) 376-3320.
Only in Western Nebraska would you find a national forest that’s mostly grass. “Only” 5,000 acres of Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest are wooded with eastern red cedar, scotch, jack and ponderosa pine. The other 110,000 acres are mostly sand hills. The area is open to hunting in season, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, cross-country skiing and bird watching. Observational blinds are available March 15-May 31. Camping is available at Steer Creek Campground. (308) 533-2257. The 72,000-acre Valentine National Wildlife Refuge is 20 miles south of Valentine on Highway 83. The refuge is a collection of shallow lakes surrounded by marshes, deep in a remote Sandhills landscape. Several refuge lakes are open for fishing. The ice fishing world record bluegill – more than 2 pounds – was caught in Pelican Lake. In addition to other game and waterfowl, the refuge is known as one of the few places where hunters find both sharp-tailed grouse and prairie chickens. The refuge is open year-round during daylight hours. Free admission. (402) 376-3789. Aquatic life abounds at the Valentine State Fish Hatchery, located in a valley
one mile east and one mile north of Valentine. The Valentine hatchery is one of five in Nebraska. Spread over 700 acres, the hatchery handles millions of fish eggs annually (60 million walleye eggs, for example). Watch for turtles basking near the fish ponds. Just to the north, Government Canyon is a 640-acre area of prime wildlife habitat offering hiking, biking, bird watching and hunting in specified areas. To find the hatchery, drive north on Green Street on the eastern edge of Valentine. (402) 376-2244. Cleve Trimble’s cattle ranch south of Valentine was once 2,500 acres along the Snake River, beneath a canopy of pine trees. Now it’s also home to a good portion of The Prairie Club, a destination golf club. The Prairie Club offers two 18-hole courses and one 10-hole course stretched over 1,260 acres. The “Dunes” course consists of dramatic changes in elevation, vast blowout bunkers and breathtaking views in all directions. The “Pines”
course has canyon views and the remains of an ancient ponderosa pine forest. Near both courses is a lodge, offering dining, a golf shop and overnight accommodations. There are also several four-bedroom cabins for guests along the Snake River. The Prairie Club is semi-private, with preference for lodging and tee times going to members. “This is a place where men and women have always chased their dreams,” Trimble said. “Buffalo, antelope, summering ponies, vast herds of beef cattle, and now, a little white ball.” To get there, drive 17 miles southwest of Valentine on Highway 97. (888) 402-1101. Valentine has another golf course, Deer Park Country Club, a public 9-hole course located along the Minnecheduza Creek on Highway 12 near the entrance to the Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge. (402)376-1271. For more information about Valentine and Valentine-area attractions, contact the Valentine Visitor Center. (800) 658-4024.
Trail Time READY TO HIT the trail on horseback? Saddle up for Western Nebraska riding adventures: Niobrara River Ranch Trail Rides near Valentine offers 12,000 acres of pony paradise (308) 520-0240; and 20 miles south of Nenzel at the Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest are natural paths, two fenced pastures and trailer parking. (308) 533-2257. At Double R Guest Ranch, 20 miles north of Mullen, there are horses for experienced riders, (866) 217-2042. At Bessey Ranger District, near Halsey and Thedford, there’s water stations, trailer areas, and two corrals with more than 30 stalls. (308) 533-2257. Happy trails continue at Chadron State Park, (308) 432-6167; Pine Ridge Ranger District’s Oglala National Grasslands, (308) 4320326; and Fort Robinson State Park.
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Pine
Ridge
From the air, the full enormity of the Pine Ridge is apparent. At ground level, lose yourself in the ravines, canyons and history of the region.
Christopher Amundson
GETTING STARTED
Paradise in the Pine Ridge plays a symphony of sounds. Springs stream past white cliffs as deer dance in the thick grassland, and songbirds sing with joy to the percussion of pedals pushing cyclists on a daring ride over another bluff. Turkeys go wild when the bighorn sheep join the show, and the forest whispers in the gentle prairie wind that all creatures are welcome. There is plenty of room for humans, too. History embraces this state’s northwest ridge, and the legends live on in this arc of uncommon beauty, 20 miles wide and 100 miles deep. It is a giant bedroom for fossils, and the cowboys still ride off into the sunset. But they can’t wait to saddle up at dawn, because every morning is precious in Pine Ridge Country.
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PINE RIDGE
Harrison • Crawford Chadron • Hay Springs Rushville • Gordon
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WELCOME CENTERS/ REST AREAS
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Agate Fossil Beds Oglala National Grassland Toadstool Geologic Park Hudson-Meng Education & Research Center Fossil hunting Horseback riding Fort Robinson State Park High Plains Homestead Mountain biking Dawes County Historical Museum Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center Museum of the Fur Trade Metcalf Wildlife Management Area Tri-State Old Time Cowboy Museum
Harrison
Harrison bills itself as “Nebraska’s Top Town.” Other communities may argue the point, but Harrison is inarguably closest to the state’s northwest corner. From here, the nearest town is Crawford, 27 miles east, so Harrison is a good stop for food, fuel and lodging. On the east side of Main Street, the Sioux County Historical Museum includes a schoolhouse, post office, country store, telephone office and home. The main museum tells the story of Sioux County from settlement through the 20th century. Open Memorial Day64 • Journey to Western Nebraska 2014
Labor Day and during September by appointment (308) 668-2110. For a scenic side-trip, head north from town to Sowbelly Road, a byway that loops through Sowbelly Canyon past G.H. Coffee Park (a good picnic spot), to the north edge of the Pine Ridge, then back up the breaks to the tablelands east of town on Pants Butte Road – about 12 miles through one of the most beautiful areas of the state. Gilbert-Baker State Wildlife Management Area is five miles north of town on a paved country road. It offers hiking, primitive camping and fishing in scenic canyon country.
In 1876, soon after the Battle of the Little Bighorn, the 5th U.S. Cavalry fought a band of Cheyenne Indians at what is known as Warbonnet Battlefield. William “Buffalo Bill” Cody was there and is said to have killed Cheyenne warrior Yellow Hand during the fight. The site is open year-round. To find it, go three miles east of Harrison on Highway 20, then 16 miles north on Pants Butte Road to a sharp right curve, then four miles east on Montrose Road to the Montrose Church. Monuments to the soldiers and to Yellow Hand are on a conical hill north of the church. The site is part of Oglala National Grassland. Agate Fossil Beds National Monument is one of the richest fossil sites on the Plains and home to an important collection of Native American artifacts. Visitors can walk among quarries and the fossils of ancient animals that once roamed here, and can see the artifacts of 31 Native American tribes with historic ties to the region. Rancher James H. Cook, who used to own this land, made many friends among area tribes, who gave him gifts that are now part of the museum’s collection. Among the items is a shirt belonging to the great Lakota chief Red Cloud. Life magazine named it one of the top 10
Legend Buttes Golf Course offers recreation along wtih breathtaking views.
Nebraska Tourism
treasures of the National Parks Service. Agate also maintains an active Native American artist-in-residence program. Located 22 miles south of Harrison or 34 miles north of Mitchell on Highway 29, it’s worth the trip. (308) 668-2211. For more information on Harrison, contact the Harrison Community Club at (308) 668-2466.
Crawford
Heading east from Harrison, Highway 20 crosses High Plains country before the White River Valley appears suddenly, revealing the Pine Ridge, stretching away many miles to the horizon. Before descending into the valley, be sure to stop at the scenic overlook for pictures. Located in the heart of Pine Ridge Country, Crawford bills itself as the “Big Game Capital of Nebraska.” For golfers, Legend Buttes Golf Course at 814 Fifth St. was named Nebraska’s top nine-hole course by Nebraska Golfer magazine. Crawford is best known as the home of Fort Robinson State Park, three miles west of Crawford on Highway 20. The fort began in 1874 as a military camp at the Red Cloud Indian Agency. For 70 years, it was the most important military outpost in the region. Now, it is one of Nebraska’s most important historical sites and one of its most popular tourist attractions. With 22,000 acres, it is Nebraska’s largest state park.
It was here that the great Lakota warrior Crazy Horse surrendered in 1877. A stone marker shows the spot where Crazy Horse was mortally wounded. Two years later, the fort was the site of a battle as part of the famous Cheyenne Outbreak. Led by Chief Dull Knife, Northern Cheyenne fled their Oklahoma reservation for their homeland, but were captured and imprisoned at Fort Robinson. One night in January 1879, under fire from cavalry troops, 130 Northern Cheyenne Indians escaped into the rugged buttes. Within two weeks, all were killed or captured; 64 Cheyenne and 11 soldiers died in the fighting. Fort Robinson was home to “Buffalo Soldiers,” an African-American garrison in the segregated army of the times. In the 20th century, the fort became the world’s largest military remount depot, and during World War II was the site of a K-9 corps training center and a German POW camp. In addition to many original buildings, some historic barracks have been carefully reconstructed according to historic and archeological data – including the Cheyenne Outbreak barracks and Buffalo Soldier barracks. Visitors also can enjoy cookouts, trail rides, hiking, historic tours and museums, and a summer repertory theater at the Post Playhouse. Lodging is available in officers’ houses; camping is available at 100 camping pads with electrical hookups and 25 non-pad, non-electrical sites. Group and equesPine Ridge • 65
Nebraska Tourism
Once a U.S. Army post, Fort Robinson today is a bastion of history and a destination for fun.
trian camping are available. The fort is so large that though it draws many tourists, it never feels crowded. It is open mid-April through mid-November. A state park entry permit is required. (308) 665-2900. For more information on Post Playhouse, call (308) 432-6317. The fort has two outstanding museums. Through valuable artifacts and informative displays, the Fort Robinson Museum traces the fort’s history from
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the Indian Wars through the 1940s. (308) 665-2919. The Trailside Museum of Natural History explores the area’s geology and natural history. Among its exhibits is “Clash of the Mammoths,” a pair of bull mammoths who battled more than 10,000 years ago. Their tusks became locked, and they fell and died together as a result. Their massive skeletons were unearthed north of Crawford. An art gallery features American Indian
and Western art. (308) 665-2929. When Fort Robinson was still used by the Army, the land now known as Soldier Creek Wilderness was part of the fort’s military reservation. Today, the 7,794-acre area has 15 miles of trails for hiking and horseback riding. The area is known for its buttes and wilderness areas. Swept by forest fire in 1989, it now offers a unique view of natural rebirth. To find it, follow Soldier Creek Road at the entrance to Fort Robinson State Park. Peterson State Wildlife Management Area is nearby, south of Highway 20. From Red Cloud Buttes, you can see Crawford to the east, Fort Robinson to the south, and the site of the Red Cloud Agency to the southeast. Half a mile northwest is the site of the Treaty Tree, where in 1875 the U.S. government tried unsuccessfully to buy the Black Hills from the Lakota (Sioux) tribe. A marker along Highway 20 identifies the area.
The area’s best-known landmark is Crow Butte, site of an 1849 battle between Sioux and Crow Indians. For the best view, travel two-and-a-half miles south of Crawford, down highways 2 and 71, then four miles east to Ponderosa Wildlife Management Area. As the name indicates, this is a prime wildlife viewing area. In the spring, summer and fall months, you can see songbirds and prairie falcons in their native habitat. Deer, turkey, fox and golden eagle are visible year-round. From Crawford, Highway 2 leads north to Oglala National Grassland, one of 20 national grasslands managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The area is vast, encompassing 94,400 acres. The landscape varies from high plains prairie to badlands to “toadstool” formations. Wildlife is abundant and includes pronghorn, turkey, mule deer, white tail deer, sharptail grouse, swift fox, burrowing owl and prairie dog. The grass-
land is open for hunting. It is the state’s most popular area for hunting pronghorn antelope. The strangest landscape in the grassland is at Toadstool Geologic Park. Layers of sediment deposited by ancient volcanoes have eroded at different rates, leaving toadstool-shaped formations of sandstone slabs perched on brule clay stems. Visitors often compare the area to the surface of the moon. The park has a well-marked interpretive hiking trail, picnic and camping facilities and a reconstructed sod house. To find it, go five miles north from Crawford on Highway 2, then 10 miles northwest on Toadstool Road. Oglala National Grassland holds another mystery. At first, people thought rancher Albert Meng had found nothing more than sheep bones. But he and friend Bill Hudson wanted scientists to take a closer look. It turned out the bones belonged to more than 600 bison.
R. Neibel, Nebraska DED
Native American ways are preserved at Fort Robinson’s Intertribal Gathering powwow.
Nearly 50 years later, Hudson-Meng Education and Research Center is open to the public and is still being studied by researchers. The bones are nearly 10,000
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years old, and the bonebed is the largest of its age in the Western Hemisphere. What killed the bison? Because of stone tools found on site, many scientists believe it was the work of Paleo-Indian hunters; others insist the bison died from some other cause. Further excavation may reveal more answers – or raise more questions. The site is south of Toadstool Park. On Toadstool Road, turn off on Sand Creek Road and go six miles to the bonebed. The site is open mid-May through September. On the road to Hudson-Meng is the High Plains Homestead, a little frontier village on the plains. The Drifter Cookshack features “cowboy-sized” meals and homemade bread and pies. Modern lodging is available in the Drifter Bunkhouses, and the village also features a working blacksmith shop, antique store and the non-alcoholic Dirty Creek Saloon. (308) 665-2592. The High Plains Homestead is one of
Nebraska Tourism
The Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center.
many unique businesses of the Northwest Nebraska High Country group that promotes local bed-and-breakfasts, cabins for rent, guest ranches, working cattle ranch vacations, “horse motels,” hunting and fishing, hiking and camping, and fossil hunting. All members of the group are located in the rural parts in and around the timbered Pine Ridge area. nebraskahighcountry.com. The state’s only railroad tunnel is
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Alan Bartels (both)
south of Crawford. No longer used by trains, the Belmont Tunnel is 750-feetlong, carved through solid rock. Railroad enthusiasts visit to watch engines pulling trains up the Crawford-to-Belmont grade. The 10-mile grade is one of the steep-
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est in the Midwest. Go nine miles south of Crawford on Highway 2 and look for the Belmont sign. For more information about Crawford and vicinity, contact the Crawford Chamber of Commerce at (866) 665-1817.
Work continues at Hudson-Meng Bison Bonebed to uncover fossilized bison skeletons, while on opposite page, adventurers from Florida enjoy a slower pace of life at High Plains Homestead.
Chadron Home to 5,600 residents, Chadron is a city with a rollicking history that includes fur traders, cowboys, Indians, ranchers, scholars and railroaders. It lies between the forested Pine Ridge to the south and the High Plains that rise to the north and west. Founded in 1921, Chadron State Park is Nebraska’s oldest state park, encompassing nearly 1,000 acres of Pine Ridge wilderness. Located nine miles south of Chadron on Highway 385, the park offers trout fishing, camping, hiking, mountain biking, bird watching and horseback riding. Twenty-two two-bed-
room, housekeeping cabins are available from April 15-Nov. 15. The park also has an RV campground with electrical hookups, showers, laundry, dump station and a playground. Primitive camping also is available. The park is open year-round for day use and camping. (308) 432-6167. The Pine Ridge Ranger District of the Nebraska National Forest is 52,000 acres of ponderosa pine and mixed grass prairies. Primitive camping is allowed throughout. The Red Cloud Campground has picnic tables, fire grates and vault toilets; it is eight miles south of Chadron on Highway 385. The forest has about 80 miles of marked trails. They are known as some of the best
mountain biking trails in the state. Hikers and horseback riders enjoy them, too. Pine Ridge Trail maps are available at the Chadron Area Chamber of Commerce. Chadron State Park offers the National Forest/Oglala National Grassland map showing trails. (800) 603-2937. The Museum of the Fur Trade is located at the site of a trading post operated by the American Fur Company from 1837 to 1876. The building has been reconstructed on the original foundation. But the museum’s three galleries go far beyond local history. They interpret the fur trade from the Arctic to the American Southwest, from early colonial days to the 20th century. Exhibits trace the everyday lives of British, French and Spanish traders, voyageurs, mountain men, buffalo hunters, and plains and woodland Indians. Among the museum’s rare artifacts are trade goods from the 18th and 19th centuries – such as “Northwest” muskets made for Native Americans (including one that belonged to the famous Shawnee chief, Tecumseh), trade silver, textiles, beads, costumes and paints. The museum is three miles east of Chadron on Highway 20. Open May 1-Oct. 31 or by appointment. (308) 432-3843. In 1890, after the infamous Wounded Knee Massacre in nearby South Dakota, Gen. Nelson Miles commandeered a local hotel, the Chadron House, while he investigated the incident. The luxury hotel was the town’s showplace. Today, restored to its former glory, it is open as the Olde Main Street Inn. It offers lodg-
Pine Ridge • 71
ing, dining and includes the 77 Longbranch Saloon. It is at 115 Main St. (308) 432-3380. The Dawes County Historical Museum, five miles south of Chadron on Highway 385, has an original log house and barn, a schoolhouse and a railroad caboose, in addition to collections of artifacts used by area pioneers. It is open Memorial Day-Sept. 30. (308) 432-4999. Completed in 2002, the Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center is dedicated to the study of Nebraska and High Plains culture, literature and history. Located on the campus of Chadron State College, the center features museum and art exhibits, an archival library and a magnificent two-story atrium. It is named after Mari Sandoz (18961966), who is among Nebraska’s bestknown authors. A High Plains native, she gained national prominence with her 1935 biography of her father, “Old Jules.” In her books, Sandoz wrote powerfully of Plains subjects such as Crazy Horse, the Cheyenne Outbreak, buffalo hunters and beaver trappers. (308) 432-6401. For more information about Chadron, contact the Chadron Chamber of Commerce at (800) 603-2937.
Hay Springs
It’s said that a Loch Ness-style monster lives in the waters of Walgren Lake. We can’t confirm that, but we do know that Walgren Lake State Recreation Area has camping, fishing and picnic areas. To find the lake, start at the junction of highways 87 and 20. Go south 1.8 miles on Highway 87, then turn east for three miles, then go south one mile. To find the monster ... well, you’re on your own. Wildlife abounds in the pine forest of Metcalf Wildlife Management Area. The area is closed to mechanized vehicles, but hiking is allowed, as is camping at primitive sites. To find it, take Highway 20 to the east edge of Hay Springs and follow the county road seven miles north. Two local landmarks have historical significance. The Beaver Wall escarpment is in the middle of the Spotted Tail Agency and old Camp Sheridan. Spotted 72 • Journey to Western Nebraska 2014
Rushville
Christopher Amundson
Paper lanterns brighten as the sun sets on the annual Feast of the Hunter’s Moon at the Museum of the Fur Trade at Chadron.
Tail was a famous Lakota (Sioux) leader and a contemporary of Crazy Horse. From the top of Beaver Wall, you can see the buttes of Crawford 50 miles to the southwest and the outline of the Black Hills 75 miles to the northwest. To find it, go 10 miles north of Highway 20 on the county road at the west edge of Hay
Springs. Sheridan Gates is the local name for two large buttes through which early settlers and military soldiers passed. Wagon ruts are still visible. The buttes stand west of Beaver Wall. For more information on Hay Springs, contact the Hay Springs Chamber of Commerce. (308) 638-7275.
The story of the aforementioned Camp Sheridan and the Spotted Tail Agency can be found at the Sheridan County Historical Museum, along with exhibits showing frontier life. The museum is at the junction of Highway 20 and Nelson Avenue. In nearby Hay Springs, two branch museums, Heritage Center I and II, are in the 1884 Methodist Church in the 200 block of Baker Street, and in the building at Second and Main. The museums are open 1-4 p.m. Monday-Friday, Memorial Day-Labor Day, and by appointment. (308) 327-2374. Smith Lake Wildlife Management Area has fishing, picnic areas and primitive camping. It is 27 miles south of Rushville on Highway 250. For more information on Rushville, contact the Rushville Chamber of Commerce. (308) 327-2221.
The Land of Big Adventure
VISIT ONE-OF-A-KIND SIOUX COUNTY – the land of big adventure and panoramic vistas. Authentic cowboys and friendly folks greet you while you enjoy scenery unrivaled in the state. Sioux County abounds with wildlife watching, fossiling, world-class museums, western apparel stores, and unique dining and lodging opportunities. Come and experience the adventure of Sioux County for yourself.
SIOUX COUNTY N E B R A S K A
www.VisitNorthwestNebraska.com Pine Ridge • 73
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Gordon Cowboy memorabilia from the late 1800s through the present day is displayed at the Tri-State Old Time Cowboy Museum at the Gordon City Park at Fourth and Oak streets. The museum is open 1-5 p.m. daily, June 1-Sept. 15, and by appointment.
(308) 282-0887. The Scamahorn Museum is a restored 1880s church and houses local history exhibits and genealogical records. It is on west Fifth Street in Wayland Park. It is open 1-4 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and 7-9 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday from Memorial Day-Labor Day. (308) 2821737 or (308) 327-2917.
The Mari Sandoz Historical Marker is 30 miles south of Gordon on Highway 27. Follow the signs from there east to Mari’s Grave on the Sandoz homestead and see the still-producing fruit orchards planted by Jules Sandoz. For more information about Gordon, contact the Gordon Tourist Information Center. (308) 282-0730.
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2014 Calendar of Events Times and dates can change, so please call ahead.
February
Farm & Ranch Expo – North Platte
Feb. 5-6. Stop by the D&N Event Center for Nebraska’s largest indoor equipment showroom for this fun and free event. (308) 532-4966.
Heart City Bull Bash – Valentine
Feb.15. The region’s best bulls are penned up on Main Street for all to see. Visit with area ranchers, find treasures from vendors, and explore downtown merchants in the Old West holdout of Valentine. (402) 3763000.
Oregon Trail Home Show – Ogallala Feb. 22-23. Even though it’s still winter, this home and garden event will have you thinking spring. (308) 289-2199.
Polar Bear Tank Race – Mullen
Feb. 28-March 1. Winter heats up with one of the wildest events you’ll ever come across. It’s the craziest thing – 4 and 5 person teams, in livestock tanks, racing downstream in the Middle Loup River – all for just bragging rights. (308) 546-2206.
April
Festival of Quilts – Chadron
April 4-6. Learn about quilts through programs and demonstrations. Quilt show, vendors and more. (308) 432-4401.
Country Bluegrass – North Platte
April 24-26. Top performers from around the country will converge on North Platte for this fun event. Food, workshops and camping are available. (308) 532-1465.
May
Honky Tonk BBQ Fest – North Platte May 2-3. The grills will be fired up for this sanctioned competition and barbecue feed. (308) 530-5139.
Woofstock – North Platte
May 17. This event has gone to the dogs. Finally, a celebration for man’s best friend. Enjoy contests for dogs, and children, along with specialty vendors and more at Memorial Park. (308) 650-7297.
June
Heritage Festival - North Platte
June 6-7. The Lincoln County Historical Museum is the western setting for this annual celebration in North Platte, home of the legend Buffalo Bill Cody himself. Join hospitable locals and visitors from far and wide for a western weekend full of entertainment, vendors and family fun activities for all. (308) 534-5640. 76 • Journey to Western Nebraska 2014
Nebraska Tourism
The legacy of the pioneers is celebrated at Oregon Trail Days in Gering. Parades, food vendors, contests and a quilt show are among the many events.
Thunder on the Prairie – Alliance
June 6-8. Classic cars cruise to the music of the ‘50s and ‘60s. Also poker run, BBQ and dance. Located in Shady Park. (308) 762-2761.
Intertribal Gathering – Crawford
June 13-15. The beat of the Native American drum may never leave you once you’ve witnessed this cultural festival. Native American arts, crafts and a traditional powwow, too. (308) 432-2174.
Shut Up & Fish Tourney – Ogallala
June 17-18. Let your catch do the talking at this competition of angling skill at Lake McConaughy. A little luck never hurt either. (308) 355-2321.
NEBRASKAland Days – North Platte
June 18-28. This is more than just a rodeo. Big name musicians will entertain the swollen crowds, and contests, food events, and art shows mean there will be something for everyone to enjoy. Oh, and there’s a PRCA rodeo, too. www.nebraskalanddays.com.
Gold Rush Days – Sidney
celebration that includes mouthfuls of fun at the pancake feed, barbecue, and at the many food vendors selling their creations. There will also be an old-fashioned parade, live music and more. www.facebook.com/ broadwaterdays.
Ash Hollow Pageant – Lewellen
June 13-14. Enjoy tours, and a chuck wagon supper before 30 cast members take the stage for this 21st annual outdoor musical at Ash Hollow State Historical Park. (308) 778-5548.
Cowboy Church Service North Platte
June 21-22. Enjoy gospel music, country humor and cowboy poetry in North Platte. (308) 380-6838
Sod House Sunday – Merriman
June 29. The former home of Nebraska State Senator Eve Bowring and her husband Arthur hosts this trip to the past with a church service, team penning, estate tours and children’s games. (308) 684-3428.
June 13-15. The Old West comes alive with quick-draw competitions, a chuck wagon cookout and fun for all. (866) 545-4030.
July
Broadwater Days – Broadwater
July 1-4. Where better to view wildlife and western themed art than historic Fort Robinson? The 41st annual show will be held at
June. Everyone will be wearing broad smiles in Broadwater during this annual
Western & Wildlife Art Show Crawford
July 4th Rodeo – Sutherland
July 3-4. Celebrate Independence Day with fireworks and a rootin’-tootin’, explosive rodeo, too. (308) 386-4721.
Oregon Trail Days – Gering
July 5 and July 9-13. Parades, food fairs, bands, chili cook-off and art show at Nebraska’s oldest continuous celebration. (308) 436-6886.
Demolition Derby – Ogallala
July 5. Smash ’em, crash ’em, and see who is the last car still moving at this classic mashup of old iron. Action gets rolling at Keith County Fairgrounds (308) 289-4991.
Fur Trade Days – Chadron
July 10-13. Join us for the 38th annual celebration commemorating Chadron’s fur trade heritage. Events range from a primitive buckskinner camp, historic presentations, Traders’ Market, parade and much more. (308) 747-2193.
Thomas County Fair – Thedford
July 24-27. The Thomas County Fair is ready for another exciting summer bash. The county seat, Thedford, is celebrating with a parade, live concerts, games, a fishing tournament and much more. (308) 645-2646.
Sioux County Fair – Harrison
July 25, July 30-Aug. 3. Kick up your heels with dances, rodeo performances, 4-H exhibits and shows. Five days of good old-fashioned fun in the northwest corner of Nebraska, including Saturday’s hog wrestling. (308) 668-2428.
August
Brady Days – Brady Aug. 1-3. Everything needed for a fun-filled weekend can be found in Brady. Be part of the bunch enjoying the street dance, barbecue, car show and games. The great people of Brady welcome you. villageofbrady.org.
Box Butte County Fair Hemingford
Aug. 4-11. At more than a week long, this is one of the longest county fairs in the state. So it shouldn’t be a surprise that every day is jam-packed with activities. For those that don’t want to get muddy in the mud bogging event, there’s a cake auction, cat, dog and horse shows, a pet parade, marksmanship competition and a parade. (308) 487-5223.
Loup 2 Loup Open Race – Halsey
Aug. 7-8. Seventeen mile sports car road race between Halsey and Purdum. Car show with racers and food vendors. Continues the 17th with the Sandhills Open Road Challenge in Arnold. (308) 533-2240.
Bushnell Day – Bushnell
Aug. 16 Take a break from the summer heat and find a shady spot to watch the parade, visit the craft fair, sample delicious food, sign up for raffles, and more. (308) 230-0683.
Heritage Day – Maxwell
Aug. 16. There’s some big horsepower in little Maxwell. The biggest equines from miles around jockey for the title of strongest team in the draft horse pull. There is also a team race and a parade, too. (308) 582-4324.
Annual Greek Festival – Bridgeport
Aug. 16-17. A Greek celebration in cowboy country? Now that’s Nebraska. This will be the 87th year of the event that celebrates with Greek music and dancing, food, and other activities. (308) 262-0281.
Labor Day Celebration – Paxton
Aug. 30-Sept. 1 Everyone’s a winner at this three-day event. Try your hand at the horseshoe tournament, or your luck at Bingo. Relax at the watermelon feed and maybe you’ll win the cash raffle. (308) 239-4541 or (308) 239-2376.
September
Labor Day Celebration – Crawford
Sept. 3. Witness modern archaeology in action at Hudson-Meng Education and Research Center. Primitive living skills, stone tool making and bonebed tours. (308) 6653900. At High Plains Homestead/Drifter Cookshack, enjoy the “All You Can Eat” Chicken, Sweet Corn & Country Music celebration to benefit Sioux County Firefighters provided by High Plains Homestead. Featured event is “Moon of the Changing Leaves” 5K walk/run. (308) 665-2592 or (888) 365-2592.
Indian Summer Rendezvous Ogallala
Sept. 11-13. Kick off the last blast of summer and welcome fall in with a craft show, parade, vendors, live entertainment and much more. (308) 284-4066.
Rail Fest – North Platte
Sept. 19-21 Celebrate the Union Pacific Railroad in North Platte’s Cody Park with live music and more. There will even be a locomotive simulator for the train engineer in you. (308) 534-3648.
October
Oktoberfest & Car Show – Sidney
Oct. 3-5. Hundreds of classic cars will be lined up, side by side, for inspection by judges, and hundreds of enthusiastic gearheads. There will be a show and shine at Legion Park, and a parade, farmer’s market, crafts and entertainment, all helping make this a fun-filled festival. (308) 254-2932.
Follow the Rails Art Trail – Alliance, Thedford, Seneca
Oct. 17-19. Explore Nebraska art and natural wonders along Highway 2. Sandhills art and artists are featured in this cultural event. Enjoy paintings, photographs, pottery and other media, wine tastings and more. (308) 458-2232.
Harvest Moon Fall Festival Hemingford
Oct. 19. Join in this autumn bash that features events like Pumpkin Chunkin, the Spud Gun Contest, a scarecrow competition, and the Outhouse Races and Corn Shucking Relay. For more info, visit hemingfordevents.com
November
Historic Christmas – Sidney
Nov. 29. The Fort Sidney Museum and Post Commander’s Home come alive in this holiday gala. Enjoy lamplight tours, holiday decorations, refreshments, hayrack rides and a visit from Santa, too. (308) 254-5851.
December
Historical Christmas Dinner Crawford
Dec. 6. Step into 1946 for this historical, family-style meal and the lighting of the holiday lights at Fort Robinson State Park. Tickets for the event go on sale Nov. 3. (308) 665-2900.
Boxing Day Open House – Harrison
Dec. 26 – For the 16th straight year, the Agate Fossil Bed National Monument will join in the celebration of this British holiday that closes out the Christmas season. The Fossil Bed’s fest follows the tradition of the holiday gathering that began here in the late 1970s, when Dorothy Meade, granddaughter of Agate Springs Ranch founder James Cook, brought the celebration to the ranch from Canada. Music, holiday crafts, and stories of the Cook family will be shared at the Open House. The monument is 22 miles south of Harrison on Highway 29. (308) 668-2211. Official Travel Guide • 77
2014 EVENTS
the historic Veterinary Building, and a 6 p.m. dinner on July 1 sets the table for four days of beautiful and historic viewing. (308) 6652900.
Hotels & Motels
RM - WA - RE - PO -
Number of Rooms Wheelchair-Accessible Rooms Restaurant on Premises Pool Indoor-I, Outdoor-O
City Name, address, driving directions, website Alliance
Phone
BR - Free Continental Breakfast PA - Pets Allowed RR - Rate Range
RM WA
RE PO BR
•
1st Interstate Inn, 1207 W. 3rd St, W. on NE Hwy 2 & US Hwy 385
308-762-4040
42
Alliance Hotel and Suites, 117 Cody Ave, 3rd & Cody Sts,
308-762-8000
60
American Inn, 1419 W. 3rd St
308-762-8300
39
Holiday Inn Express, 1420 W. 3rd St, www.hiexpress.com/alliancene
308-762-7600
60
Rainbow Motel, 614 W. 3rd St
308-762-4980
13
Sunset Motel & RV Park, 1210 E. NE Hwy 2, www.clicksunset.com
308-762-8660
20
Arthur
The Bunkhouse, South end of Main St
308-764-2476
4
Bayard
Landmark Inn, 246 Main St, www.landmarkinn-webs.com
308-586-1075
11
Big Springs
Motel 6, 111 Circle Rd, I-80 Exit 107
308-889-3671
62
Bridgeport
Bridgeport Inn, 517 Main St, www.bridgeport-ne.com
308-262-0290
12
Meadowlark Annex, 2 mi. N.W. on US Hwy 385 to mile marker 77, www.meadowlarkmotorinn.com
308-262-0410 800-595-4948
8
Meadowlark Motor Inn & Restaurant, N. US Hwy 385, www.meadowlarkmotorinn.com
308-262-0557 800-510-1210
22
•
•
Best Western West Hills Inn, 1100 W. 10th St, 1/2 mi. S. Jct US Hwys 20 & 385. www.bestwesternnebraska.com (see ad pg. 69)
308-432-3305 877-432-3305
67
•
•
Bunk House Motel, 901 E. 3rd St, www.bunkhousechadron.com (see ad pg. 68)
308-432-5591
21
Economy 9 Motel, 1201 W. US Hwy 20
308-432-3119
21
Grand Westerner Motel, 1050 W. US Hwy 20, www.chadron.com (see ad pg. 68)
308-432-5595
45
Motel 6, 755 Microtel Dr, S. US Hwy 385 & 8th St Exit
308-432-3000 800-297-7410
43
Olde Main Street Inn, 115 Main St, www.chadron.com/oldemain (see ad pg. 71)
308-432-3380
9
Super 8 Motel, 840 W. US Hwy 20. www.chadron.com
308-432-4471 800-800-8000
45
Westerner Motel, 300 Oak St, W. US Hwy 20, www.chadron.com/business/westerner (see ad pg. 68)
308-432-5577 800-947-0847
27
Fort Robinson State Park, 3200 Highway 20, Crawford, NE
308-665-2900
Hilltop Motel, 304 McPherson St, NE Hwy 2 & US Hwy 20
308-665-1144 800-504-1444
13
Town Line Motel, 3591 US Hwy 20, Jct NE Hwy 2 & US Hwy 20
308-665-1450 800-903-1450
24
Cavalier Motel, 3655 N. 10th St, www.motelcavalier.com
308-635-3176
39
Circle S Lodge, 400 M St, NE Hwys 92 & 71
308-436-2157
30
Monument Inn and Suites, 1130 M St, www.monumentinnsuites.com (see ad pg. 36)
308-436-1950 866-436-1950
61
Hacienda Motel, 605 W. US Hwy 20
308-282-1400
23
Jefco Inn, 308 S. Cornell, W. US Hwy 20
308-282-2935
22
Western Sands Motel, 107 W. US Hwy 20
308-282-1795
20
Halsey Frontier Inn, 503 NE Hwy 2, www.halseyfrontierinn.com (see ad pg. 56)
308-533-2240
11
Sage Motel, 410 E. US Hwy 20, www.visitnorthwestnebraska.com
308-668-2441
13
Harrison House Hotel, 115 Main St., www.visitnorthwestnebraska.com (see ad pg. 65)
308-668-2166
9
Double JT & Hyannis Hotel, 1025 Main Ave
308-458-2332
11
Chadron
Crawford
Gering
Gordon
Halsey Harrison
Hyannis
PA
•
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I
•
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I
• I
•
I
• •
I
• •
• • • • • • • • • • • •
1-50 1-75 1-75 1-75 1-75 51-75 75+ 1-50 1-75 1-50 51-75 1-75+
•
•
51-75+
I
• • •
50-245+
•
1-75+
1-50
51-75
1-50
•
• •
•
1-75 51-75 1-50
• • • • •
49-75
•
O
• •
1-50
•
•
•
1-75 51-75+
•
I
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•
•
•
1-50 51-75+
•
•
RR
1-75+
• • •
•
1-75 1-75 1-50 50-100 51-75
City Name, address, driving directions, website
Phone
RM WA
RE PO BR
PA
RR
Ranchland Motel, 305 E Hwy 2
308-458-2264
6
1st Interstate Inn, 1704 S. NE Hwy 71, www.1stinns.com
308-235-4601
29
Days Inn, 611 E. 3rd St. www.daysinn.com
308-235-4671
30
Motel Kimball, 1017 E. 3rd St, E. US Hwy 30
308-235-4606
16
Sleep 4 Less, 600 W. US Hwy 30, I-80 Exit 22
308-235-4878
25
Super 8 Motel, 1701 S. NE Hwy 71, I-80 Exit 20 & NE Hwy 71
308-235-4888
57
Admiral’s Cove Resort, 999 Lemoyne Rd, Lake McConaughy Gate 6. www.admiralscoveresort.com
308-355-2102
23
•
• • • • • •
North Shore Lodge, 5 North Shore Rd, NE Hwy 92 near Lake McConaughy. www.northshorelodge.net
308-355-2222
21
•
•
51-75+
Pleasant View Lodge at Otter Creek, 1290 NE Hwy 92 W., Lake McConaughy. www.homesatlakemac.com
308-355-5000 888-568-7620
10
•
1-50
Vogl’s Lodge and Lure, 721 NE Hwy 92 W., Lake McConaughy, www.voglslodgeandlure.com
308-355-2321
12
•
51-75+
Gander Inn B&B, 105 E. Church St. Small-town peaceful setting. Game room & gift shop. All meals can be arranged at guests’ preferred times. www. ganderinn.net. (see ad pg. 43)
308-778-5616
•
51-75+
Marina Landing, 5051 Albees, Lewellen, NE Hwy 92, mile marker 124, www.lakemacmarinalanding.com
308-355-3535 888-767-7791
8
Otter Creek Lodge, 100 Otter Creek Ct, Lewellen, Lake McConaughy, 12 mi. from dam on NE Hwy 92
308-355-2372
9
Pleasant View Lodge at Otter Creek, NE Hwy 92 W., On Lake Mac, www.homesatlakemac.com
308-355-5000 888-568-7620
10
Riverview Lodge, 110 Rd 68, 1 mi. S., 1 mi. W., www.riverviewlodgelisco.com
308-772-3839
8
Morrill
Oak Tree Inn, 707 E. Webster, US Hwy 26
308-247-2111
97
Mullen
Glidden Sandhills Motel, W. NE Hwy 2, www.sandhillsmotel.com (see ad pg. 52)
308-546-2206 888-278-6167
19
Americas Best Value Inn Travelers Inn, 602 E. 4th St, I-80 Exit 177, 1 1/2 mi. N. on US Hwy 83, 6 blks E.. www.bestvalueinn.com
308-534-4020 888-315-2378
32
Blue Spruce Motel, 820 S. Dewey St
308-534-2600
25
Cedar Lodge Motel, 421 Rodeo Rd
308-532-0970
31
Comfort Inn, 2901 S. Jeffers St, I-80 Exit 177 S., www.comfortinn.com/hotel/ne021
308-532-6144
90
Days Inn, 3102 S. Jeffers, I-80 Exit 177, 1 blk S., www.daysinn.com
308-532-9321
48
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott, 319 W. South River Rd, www.marriott.com/lbffi
308-532-9900 888-236-2427
82
Hampton Inn, 200 Platte Oasis Pkwy, I-80 Exit 177 & US Hwy 83, www.hampton-inn.com/hi/northplatte
308-534-6000 800-426-7866
110
•
I
•
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites and Convention Center, 300 Holiday Frontage Rd, www.hiexpress.com/northplattene (see ad pg. 18)
308-532-9500 888-562-9500
152
•
I
•
•
Knights Inn, 501 Halligan Dr, I-80 Exit 177 N., www.knightsinn.com
308-532-6650 888-532-0151
81
Howard Johnson, 1209 S. Dewey, www.howardjohnson.com
308-532-0130
77
• •
• •
Husker Inn, 721 E. 4th St
308-534-6960
20
LaQuinta Inn & Suites, 2600 Eagles Wings Pl, I-80 Exit 179, www.821.lq.com, (see ad pg. 15)
308-534-0700 866-534-0700
65
Motel 6, 1520 S. Jeffers St. www.motel6.com
308-534-6200
61
North Platte Country Inn, 321 S. Dewey St, I-80 Exit 177 N. on US Hwy 83
308-532-8130
40
Oak Tree Inn, 451 Halligan Dr, I-80 Exit 177, www.oaktreeinn.com (see ad pg. 15)
308-535-9900
111
Park Motel, 1302 N. Jeffers, N. US Hwy 83
308-532-6834
27
Quality Inn & Suites Convention Center, 2102 S. Jeffers St, I-80 & US Hwy 83. www.sandhillcc.com, (see ad pg. 14)
308-532-9090 800-760-3333
196
Kimball
Lemoyne
Lewellen
Lisco
North Platte
51-75
• • •
I
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•
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• • •
•
1-50 51-75+ 1-50 1-75 1-75+ 1-75+
51-75
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1-50 1-75 51-75 51-75 1-75 1-75
1-75
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O I
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• • •
51-75+ 1-75+ 75+ 75+ 75+ 1-75 51-75+ 1-50
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•
•
O O
•
•
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•
I
75+ 1-50 1-50 51-75
51-75
Official Travel Guide • 79
City Name, address, driving directions, website
Phone
Ramada, 3201 S. Jeffers, I-80 & US Hwy 83 S.
308-534-3120
79
Rambler Motel, 1420 Rodeo Rd
308-532-9290
26
Rodeway Inn, 920 N. Jeffers St
308-532-2313
38
Royal Colonial Inn, 1402 S. Jeffers St. www.royalcolonialinn.com
308-534-3630
65
Super 8 Motel, 220 Eugene Ave, I-80 Exit 177. www.super8.com, (see ad pg. 19)
308-532-4224
111
Western Motel, 706 Rodeo Rd
308-532-5240
10
Best Western Stagecoach Inn, 201 Stagecoach Trail www.bestwesternnebraska.com
308-284-3656
100
Comfort Inn, 110 Pony Express Rd. www.choicehotels.com
308-284-4028
49
Days Inn, 601 Stagecoach Trail, www.daysinn.com.
308-284-6365
31
Elms Motel, 717 W. First St
308-284-3404
12
Holiday Inn Express and South Platte Cabins & Kennels LLC, 501 Stagecoach Dr, I-80 Exit 126 N. to service road, 1/4 mi. E.
308-284-2266 888-922-3691
71
Kingsley Lodge, 1510 N. NE Hwy 61.
308-284-2775
17
Lazy K Motel, 1501 E. 1st St, N. of I-80 Exit 126
308-284-4056
19
Quality Inn, 201 Chuckwagon Rd, I-80 Exit 126 N., www.choicehotels.com
308-284-3623
101
Pump & Pantry Motel, 730 E. 1st, Turn right at the overpass, 5 blks
308-284-6119
15
Rodeway Inn, 108 Prospector Dr, I-80 Exit 126, www.rodewayinn.com
308-284-2056
40
Super 8 Motel, 500 E. A St S., I-80 Exit 126, www.super8.com (see ad pg. 19)
308-284-2076
90
Oshkosh Inn, 207 W. Ave A, Jct US Hwy 26 & NE Hwy 27, www.oshkoshinn.com
308-772-3066
13
Shady Rest Motel, 102 Main St, www.oshkoshshadyrest.com
308-772-4111
12
Days Inn, 851 Paxton Elsie Rd, I-80 Exit 145
308-239-4510
34
Point of Rocks Motel & RV Park, 8175 US Hwy 30, 2 1/2 mi. E.
308-879-4400
Antler’s Motel, 607 E. 2nd
308-327-2444
20
Nebraskaland Motel, 508 E. 2nd St
308-327-2487
15
Candlelight Inn, 1822 E. 20th Pl. www.candlelightscottsbluff.com
308-635-3751
56
Capri Motel, 2424 Ave I
308-635-2057
30
Comfort Inn, 1902 21st Ave. www.choicehotels.com
308-632-7510
49
Hampton Inn & Suites Conference Center, 301 W. US Hwy 26, Jct of Ave B & US Hwy 26. www.hampton-inn.com, (see ad pg. 40)
308-635-5200 800-HAMPTON
81
Holiday Inn Express, 1821 Frontage Rd, www.hiexpress.com/scottsbluffne
308-632-1000
70
Lamplighter American Inn, 606 E. 27th St
308-632-7108
40
Ogallala
Oshkosh
Paxton Potter Rushville
Scottsbluff
Sidney
RM WA
PA
•
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O
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O
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51-75 1-75 51-75 1-50
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75+ 1-75 1-50
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• • • • • • •
75+ 1-75 1-50 1-75 1-50 1-75 1-75 1-50
Scottsbluff Days Inn, 1901 21st Ave. www.daysinn.com
308-635-3111
136
Sportsman Inn, 80349 County Rd 19, 4 mi. W. on US Hwy 26, www.sportsmaninn-webs.com
308-632-6012
29
Super 8 Motel, 2202 Delta Dr, www.super8.com (see ad pg. 38)
308-635-1600
55
Trails West Camp, 1918 S. Beltline Hwy W.. www.trailswestymca.org
308-632-5705
9
Americas Best Value Inn & Suites, 2115 W. Illinois St, W. on US Hwy 30
308-254-2081
58
Best Western Plus Sidney Lodge, 645 Cabela Dr, I-80 Exit 59, www. www.bestwestern/us/ne/sidney.com
308-254-0100
64
Comfort Inn, 730 E. Jennifer Ln, I-80 Exit 59. www.choicehotels.com
308-254-5011
55
Days Inn, 3042 Silverberg Dr, I-80 Exit 59, www.daysinn.com (see ads pg. 25)
308-254-2121
47
80 • Journey to Western Nebraska 2014
RE PO BR
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1-75 51-75+
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City Name, address, driving directions, website
Sutherland Thedford
Tryon Valentine
Wallace
Big Springs
Chadron
Cody Crawford
RM WA
El Palomino Motel, 2220 Illinois St, W. US Hwy 30
308-254-5566
18
Ft. Sidney Inn, 935 9th Ave, 1 blk S. of post office on US Hwy 30, www.fortsidneyinnmotelne.com
308-254-9106
51
Generic Motel, 11552 US Hwy 30, 2 mi. N. of I-80 Exit 59, Jct US Hwys 30 & 385
308-254-4527
13
Hampton Inn, 635 Cabela Dr, www.hamptoninn.com
308-254-2111
74
Holiday Inn/Conference Center, 664 Chase Blvd (see ad pg. 25)
308-254-2000
85
Motel 6, 3040 Silverberg Dr. www.motel6.com
308-254-5463
47
Sidney Motor Lodge, 2031 Illinois St, W. US Hwy 30
308-254-4581
18
Sleep 4 Le$$, 954 E. Elm St, I-80 Exit 59, 2 1/2 mi. N. to US Hwys 30 & 385, www.sleepforlessmotel.com
308-254-4009 877-220-0109
11
Park Motel, 1110 First St, I-80 Exit 158
308-386-4384
19
Arrowhead Lodge & Café, 39293 NE Hwy 2, Jct NE Hwy 2 & US Hwy 83
308-645-2246
19
Roadside Inn, 39357 E. NE Hwy 2, www.roadsideinn.net
308-645-2284
42
Longhorn Motel, 480 NE Hwy 92, Jct NE Hwys 92 & 97
308-587-2345
5
Comfort Inn, 101 Main St. www.civalentine.com
402-376-3300
50
Dunes Lodge & Suites, 340 E. US Hwy 20. www.duneslodge.com
402-376-3131
72
Fountain Inn Motel, 237 S. Cherry St
402-376-2300
13
Merritt Trading Post Resort, 26 mi. S. on NE Hwy 97, www.merritttradingpost.com
402-376-3437
15
Motel Raine, 618 W. US Hwy 20. www.sleepintheraine.com, (see ad pg. 59)
402-376-2030 800-999-3066
31
Super 8 Motel, 223 E. US Hwy 20. www.super8.com
402-376-1250
60
Trade Winds Motel, 1009 E. US Hwy 20, www.tradewindslodge.com
402-376-1600
32
Valentine’s Niobrara Lodge, 803 E. US Hwy 20, www.niobrarariverlodge.com, (see ad pg. 57)
402-376-3000 877-376-3003
61
Prairie View Motel, 409 N. Commercial Ave
308-387-4618
3
Unique Lodging City
Phone
WA - Wheelchair-Accessible Rooms PB - Rooms with Private Bath SB - Rooms with Shared Bath
Name and Address
Phone
Phelps Hotel, 401 Pine St. Historic hotel built in 1885. Barbwire bison sculptures, gift and coffee shops offering homemade goodies.
308-889-3580
The Bunkhouse B&B and Stables, 30914 Cty Rd 2, Private cabin & full kitchen. 2 full RV hookups & horse stables. www.cowboybunkhouse.com.
308-464-1224
Olde Main Street Inn, 115 Main St. Rustic country inn on National Register of Historic Places. www.chadron.com/oldemain. (see ad pg. 71)
308-432-3380
Rocking Heart Elk Ranch, 1338 Table Rd. 2-story log cabin. Elk tours. www.elkplanet.com.
308-432-4314
Trunk Butte Ranch House, 5144 US Hwy 20, 8 mi. W. on US Hwy 20. enjoy a stay in this century-old ranch house. Dutch oven suppers available, www.trunkbutteranchhouse.com. (see ad pg. 71)
402-469-6289
Victorian Inn B&B, 307 Shelton St. Built in 1910. High-speed Internet, grand piano, central AC. www.chadronvictorianinn.com.
308-432-5696
Cody’s Country Cabin, US Hwy 20. Remodeled 3-bedroom house. Fully furnished with phone and cable TV. Rent to one party only.
402-823-4182
Aunt Myrna’s Cabin, 1007 Bethel Rd, 5 mi. S. of US Hwy 20. Rustic, private cabin. Native trout fishing, hiking/biking, hunting. www.aunt-myrnas-cabin.com. (see ad pg. 67)
308-665-2343
Creekside B&B, 303 Squaw Creek Rd. Hot tub, private patio and outdoor activities. www.creeksidebedandbreakfast.com.
308-665-1289
Down Home Ranch Guest House, 12733 NE Hwy 2/71. A 4-bedroom, 2-bath ranch home near canyons and rolling hills. Sleeps 10. www.downhomeranchhouse.com.
602-620-5755
RE PO BR
PA
RR 1-50
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1-75+
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1-75
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1-75 51-75 1-75
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1-75+ 1-75 75+ 1-75 51-75+
•
51-75+ 75+
•
1-50
BR - Breakfast Full-F, Continental-C RR - Rate Range
WA
PB
SB
• • •
• •
RR 51-75+
F
51-75
FC
1-75+
F
51-75
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F
51-75+
•
FC
1-75
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•
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FC
51-75
F
75+ 1-50
Official Travel Guide • 81
City
Name and Address
Phone
High Plains Homestead, Home of the Drifter Cookshack & Bunkhouse, 263 Sandcreek Rd, 16 mi. N. Cow town museum, lodging, horse corrals, hunting and fossil collecting. Open mid-Apr thru mid-Nov. www.highplainshomestead.com. (see ad pg. 70)
308-665-2592 888-365-2592
Johnson Ranch, 220 Lawrence Rd, Whitney, 5 mi. N. of Crawford on NE Hwy 2, 2 mi. E. Trail rides, horse rental and boarding, and hunting. www.onelazyj.com.
308-665-3960
Our Heritage, 1041 Toadstool Rd, 16 mi. N.W. & 7 mi. N.W. (2 locations). Ranch activities, hiking & fossil hunting. Packages available. Sleeps 15. www.vacation-ranch.com. (see ad pg. 68)
308-665-2810
Ponderosa Ranch, 524 Saw Log Rd, 2 1/2 mi. S., 2 mi. E., 3 1/2 mi. S. A cozy cabin on working cattle ranch. Horseback riding, working ranch vacations & hunting. www.ponderosaranch.net.
308-665-3983
Schoolhouse B&B, 1312 W. Ash Creek Rd. In the beautiful Pine Ridge, historic 1930 schoolhouse. Also, horseback riding and horse boarding. www.fosterschoolhouse.com.
308-665-1814
Southside Cottage, 1107 Hospital Dr., Remodeled 2-bedroom cottage. Fully furnished with cable TV and internet. Sleeps 6. Open year round. www. southsidecottage.com. (see ad pg. 65)
308-631-7234
Horse Thief Cave Ranch, 1711 550th Trail Rd, 15 mi. S.E. Private house along Niobrara River. Wildlife, hiking and bird-watching. www.horsethiefcave.com.
308-282-1017
Poppe’s Country Haven, 517 W. 4th. Private accommodations and recreation room with reasonable rates. Sleeps up to 15. www.poppeenterprises.com.
308-289-1737
Rocking Horse Inn, 304 Lincoln St. Early 1900s home with turn-of-the-century hospitality. A quiet home away from home.
308-352-2450
Whisperin’ Angel Inn, 101 S. Manderson Ave. Peaceful surroundings and starry skies at this historic bed and breakfast
308-458-2300
Harrison House Hotel, 115 Main St. A restored historic hotel located in scenic Sioux County. Wi-Fi available. www.harrisonhousehotel.net.
308-668-2166
The Nest B&B Inn, 13 mi. N.E. of Harrison on Hat Creek Rd. Fully furnished ranch home accommodates up to 10 overnight guests. www.restinthenest.com.
308-432-4227
Flying Heart Ranch LLC, 6473 440th Ln. A 3-bedroom, 2-bath cabin. Solitude, wildlife, hiking/biking trails. www.flyingheartranch.com.
308-638-7426
Hay Springs Rentals, Rentals at 213, 221 & 230 N. Post St & 339 N. Chambers St. 3-bedroom houses with kitchens, living rooms and amenities. www.hayspringsrentals.com.
308-638-4466
Pelican Beach Cabin, 43863 E. NE Hwy 2, 1 1/2 mi. E. on NE Hwy 2, across from golf course. Overlooks lake, full kitchen, bedroom loft and washer/dryer. Sleeps 6.
308-458-2444
Hansen’s Homestead, 7660 Hayes Rd, 6 mi. S., 6 1/2 mi. W. Enjoy Western Nebraska hospitality in this home away from home.
308-487-3805
Patriot Inn B&B, 851 Cty Rd 71. A cozy cabin on a family farm. www.bbc.net/~patriotinn.
308-487-1776
The Cottage, 405 Shoshone Ave. A private cottage with full kitchen, laundry facilities and high-speed Internet. www.visitboxbutte.com.
308-487-5272
Keystone
The Beach House, Lake McConaughy, Luxury townhomes with gorgeous lake views, short term rentals available. www.lakemacbeachhouse.com
308-762-2892
Lewellen
17 Ranch, 5052 Rd 197, 1 mi. W., 1 1/4 mi. N., 1/2 mi. W. Working family cattle ranch. Reservations required. www.agonline.com/17Ranch.
308-778-5543
Gander Inn B&B, 105 E. Church St. Small-town peaceful setting. Game room & gift shop. All meals can be arranged at guests’ preferred times. www.ganderinn.net. (see ad pg. 43)
308-778-5616
Nancy B’s Backyard Bunkhouse, 19150 Rd 44, Lewellen, US Hwy 26 to Rd 44 W. Stay in 3-bedroom guesthouse or tepee. Near Lake McConaughy. www.visitogallala.com.
308-778-5408
Maxwell
Cedar Canyon Ranch LLC, 12568 S. Valley View Rd, on Oregon & Pony Express Trails. 3-bedroom lodge & summer cabins. www.fortmcphersoncampground.com.
308-582-4320
Mitchell
Pioneer Trails Hostel at Mitchell’s Busy Corner, 1508 22nd Ave, Jct of 22nd Ave & US Hwy 26. Meals at The Folk’s Place Café & use of Shaper’s Gym. www.mitchellsbusycorner.com.
308-424-1043
Mullen
Carter Morris House, 102 NW 3rd St. Fully-furnished 2-bedroom guest house. A/C, washer/ dryer, gas grill, hunting packages, horse corrals, ranching and birding tours. Sleeps 9.
308-546-2288
Double R Guest Ranch LLC, 86091 Double R Dr. Secluded cabins with kitchenettes, TV, A/C and gas grills. Hunting, fishing, bird-watching, horses & ranch activities. Sleeps 16. Open year-round. www.rrguestranch.com. (see ad pg. 57)
308-546-2314 866-217-2042
Brauer’s Bed & Breakfast,12900 N Sandhills. Full breakfast with wonderful views from all directions. www.bauersbedandbreakfast.com.
308-530-1753
Knoll’s Country Inn B&B, 6132 S. Range Rd. Hot tub, flower gardens, full breakfast, quiet atmosphere, bird-watching and horse boarding. www.knollscountryinn.com.
877-378-2521
The Locust Tree B&B, 400 W. 5th. Brick home graced with spruce and locust trees.
308-772-3530
Blue Creek Lodge, 8460 Rd. 181. Furnished 4-bedroom lodge. Sleeps 8-10 people. bluecreeklodging.com
308-772-9912
Barn Anew B&B, On old Oregon Trail Rd, 3 mi. W. of Scottsbluff. A100-year-old barn in the shadow of Scotts Bluff National Monument, www.barnanew.com.
308-632-8647
Gordon Grant
Hyannis Harrison
Hay Springs
Hyannis Hemingford
North Platte
Oshkosh
Scottsbluff
PB
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SB
BR F
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RR 51-75
C
51-75
F
1-75
F
51-75
F
51-75
•
308-665-2309
Willow Pond B&B, 11 Crestview Dr. Newly renovated suite includes private bath, king bed and balcony overlooking Willow Pond. www.willowpondbandb.com.
Gering
WA
75+
F
75+
C
1-75
C
51-75
FC
1-75
F C
50-100 75+ 75+
75+ F
51-75
C
51-75 51-75 75+
FC
51-75
F
51-75+
C
51-75+ 1-50
•
•
FC
1-50 51-75+
•
•
• • • • •
• • • •
51-75+
F
70-100
F
51-75+
C
51-75+ 150+
F
75+
City
Phone
WA
308-783-5739 877-850-5144
Flying Bee Ranch LLC, Bayard, 4 1/2 miles S. of NE Hwy 92 at McGrew. Working ranch in Wildcat Hills. Secluded cabin and ranch tours. www.flyingbee-ranch.com.
308-783-2885
Tin Camp Ranch, 350 Tin Camp Rd. Working ranch with house, bunkhouse, horse boarding and year-round ranch activities. www.tincamp.com.
308-587-2439
Thedford
Middle Loup River Ranch, 40203 NE Hwy 2, 10 mi. E. Next to Nebraska National Forest, www.middleloupriverranch.com. (see ad pg. 56)
402-450-2268
Valentine
Blue Moon Ridge B&B, 10 Blue Moon Ridge Rd. www.bluemoonridgebb.com
402-376-8090
Heartland Elk Guest Ranch, 114 Lake Shore Dr, 17 mi. E. on NE Hwy 12, 2 1/2 mi. S. Tubing, canoeing, horseback riding, fishing and hiking. www.heartlandelk.com.
402-376-1124
Lord Ranch Resort, 17 mi. S. on US Hwy 83 to Mile Marker 9, 1 mi. E. on 16B Spur. Cabins surrounded by peaceful Sandhills and wildlife. www.lordranchresort.com.
402-376-5984 800-270-0181
Niobrara River Ranch, 15 mi. E. on NE Hwy 12, S. 3/4 mi. Rustic handcrafted log cabins with all the comforts of home. www.niobrarariverranch.com.
402-890-1245 866-282-8677
Schlagel Creek Ranch, 5 mi. S. on US Hwy 20, 1 1/2 mi. W. Lodging, trail rides, trout fishing, canoeing/tubing access, and fall and spring hunting packages. www.schlagelcreekranch.com.
402-376-2679
McDermott Ranch Resort, 33412 S. Somerset Rd. 2-bedroom, barn-style cabin. Sleeps 8. Meals provided, cable TV and wet bar. www.medicinecreekhunting.com.
308-534-5913
Sutherland
Wellfleet
Name and Address Cheyenne Ridge Outfitters, 320075 Ankony Pkwy, Minatare. Lodge with sauna, game tables, big screen TVs. www.cheyenneridgeoutfitters.com.
Campgrounds City
• • •
SB
• •
BR
RR
F
51-75+
FC
51-75+ 1-75+
• •
75+ C
90-110 75+
•
75+ 75+
•
Year-round-YR, if date not given call for info RV Amenities, Electricity-E, Water-W, Sewer-S Tent Camping Rest Facilities, Flush Toilets-F, Pit Toilets-P, Showers-S
F
1-75+
AD – Admission, Fees charged-F, NE Park Permit required-P CR – Cabin Rentals
RV
308-762-3860
YR
EWS
Sunset RV Park, 1210 E. NE Hwy 2. Full hookups, wireless Internet, indoor pool, 24 trailers, $18-30. www.clicksunset.com.
308-762-8660 800-767-8660
YR
EWS
Arnold SRA, 1 mi. S. of Jct NE Hwys 40 & 92. Fishing, hiking and camping on 22 acres of land with 10-acre lake. 100+ tents, 20 trailers. www.arnoldne.org.
308-848-2228
YR
E
HQH Stables & Campground, 1625 Rd 203, 5 mi. off I-80. Overnight camping and indoor/ outdoor stalls. Riding area available. 6 trailers, $10-20. www.a-chordpublishing.com.
877-241-8653
McGreer Camper Park, 693 Rd 209. Horse boarding. 8 tents, 28 trailers, $25-30. www.mcgreercamperpark.com
308-889-5093
AprOct 31
EWS
The Bunkhouse RV Park & Stables, 30914 Rd 2, 3 mi. S. of I-80 Exit 107, 1/2 mi. E. Secluded location with easy access. 2 trailers, 1 cabin. Call for rates. www.cowboybunkhouse.com.
308-464-1224
YR
EWS
Bridgeport SRA, N.W. on US Hwy 26. Four sandpit lakes totaling 78 acres. Powerboating, picnicking, hiking and fishing. 100 tents, $6. www.outdoornebraska.ne.gov.
308-436-3777
YR
W
•
P
PF
Meadowlark Annex RV Park, 2 mi. N. on US Hwy 385, Mile Marker 77. Level pull-through sites.10 tents, 18 trailers, $9-18. www.meadowlarkmotorinn.com.
308-262-0410
YR
EWS
•
FPS
F
Brule
Riverside Campground, 1000 S. State St, I-80 Exit 117. Easy pull-through sites with 20-, 30and 50-amp hookups. 45 trailers, $15+.
308-287-2474 800-809-2921
Apr 1Oct 30
EWS
FS
F
Chadron
Chadron State Park, 9 mi. S. on US Hwy 385. Modern campground, cabins, picnic areas and swimming pool. 18 tents, 70 trailers, 22 cabins, $11-15, $55-65 cabins. www.outdoornebraska.ne.gov.
308-432-6167
YR
EW
•
FPS
PF
Eagle’s Rest RV Park, 1/4 mi. W. on US Hwy 20. Level, shaded drive-through spots with 30or 50-amp hookups. Wi-Fi access. 20 tents, 48 trailers, $25. (see ad pg. 67)
308-432-4349
Elec. only winter
EWS
•
FS
F
Red Cloud Campground, Nebraska National Forest, 8 mi. S. on US Hwy 385. 7 tents, 6 trailers, $5 fee mid-May through mid-Nov. www.fs.fed.us/r2/nebraska .
308-432-0300
YR
•
P
F
Roberts Trailhead Campground, Nebraska National Forest, 18 mi. S.W. Horse corrals available. $8/vehicle mid-May thru mid-Nov. www.fs.fed.us/r2/nebraska.
308-432-0300
YR
W
P
F
Chappell
Creekside RV Park, N. of I-80 Exit 85. Unlimited tents, 28 trailers, $12.50-25.
308-874-2267 888-871-2267
YR
EWS
FS
F
Crawford
Crawford City Park, First & Main Sts. 2 tents, 2 trailers. www.crawfordnebraska.net.
308-665-1462
YR
E
Fort Robinson State Park, 3200 W. US Hwy 20. Unlimited tents, 103 trailers, 34 cabins, $1221, $45-$50 lodge, $100+ cabins. www.outdoornebraska.ne.gov.
308-665-2900
FPS
PF
Soldier Creek Wilderness Trailhead, 6 mi. N.W. of Fort Robinson State Park. $8/vehicle mid-May thru mid-Nov. www.fs.fed.us/r2/nebraska.
308-432-0300
YR
W
P
F
Southside Cottage and RV Park, 1105 Hospital Dr. Clean, quiet location. 4 trailers, Rate $15-$17, Amenities-Electricity, Water, Sewer. Fully furnished 2-bedroom cottage also available. Cottage open year round. www.southsidecottage.com (see ad pg. 65)
308-665-2309
Apr 1Oct 31
EWS
Toadstool Geologic Park, Nebraska National Forest, 19 mi. N. 6 trailers, $5 camping, $3 use fee mid-May thru mid-Nov. www.fs.fed.us/r2/nebraska .
308-432-0300
Cody City Park, Located one block north of Highway 20, off Western Nebraska Ave.
402-823-4118
Arnold Big Springs
Bridgeport
Cody
J&C RV Park, 2491 S. US Hwy 385. Quiet, comfortable location. 30- or 50-amp hookups, wireless Internet, 13 trailers. Call for rates.
Phone
•
Open
Alliance
Name and Address
Open – RV – TC – RF –
• •
PB
TC RF AD CR F FS
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P
EW
EWS
F
•
FS
EWS
F F
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F
P YR
F
F F
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•
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City Gering
Gordon
Halsey
Harrison Hay Springs
Hemingford
Hershey
Hyannis
Kimball Lemoyne
Lewellen
Maxwell Merriman
Minatare Mitchell
Mullen North Platte
Phone
Open
RV
Robidoux RV Park, 585 Five Rocks Rd, 1/2 mi. S. of Jct of NE Hwy 92 & Five Rocks Rd. Unlimited tents, 42 trailers, $10-28. www.gering.org.
Name and Address
TC RF AD CR
308-436-2046
YR
EWS
Wildcat Hills SRA, 4235 NE Hwy 71. 5 tents, 5 trailers, $6. www.outdoornebraska.ne.gov.
308-436-3777
YR
W
Hamilton Park, E. US Hwy 20. 6 trailers. www.ci.gordon.ne.us.
308-282-0837
Apr-Oct
Tomahawk Park, 200 W. US Hwy 20. 15 trailers. Call for rates. www.ci.gordon.ne.us.
308-282-0329
Apr-Oct
EWS
Bessey Recreation Complex, Nebraska National Forest, 2 mi. W. 13 tents, 21 trailers, $8-11 rates, $3 vehicle pass, $5 extra vehicle. www.fs.fed.us/rz/nebraska.
308-533-2257
YR
EW
•
FPS
F
Halsey Frontier Inn Campground, 503 NE Hwy 2. Full hookup spaces with restroom and shower facilities. 6 tents, 6 trailers, $15. www.halseyfrontierinn.com.
308-533-2240
YR
EWS
•
FS
F
Corral Campground, 410 E. US Hwy 20. 12 trailers. www.visitnorthwestnebraska.com.
308-668-2441
YR
EWS
Sunset RV Park, 110 S. Post St. Park and swimming pool nearby. 9 tents, 9 trailers, $7-20.
308-638-7275
YR
EWS
Walgren Lake SRA, 4 mi. E. on US Hwy 20, 3 mi. S. An 80-acre area with a 50-acre lake. Primitive camping. 50 tents, 50 trailers, $6. www.outdoornebraska.ne.gov.
308-665-2900
YR
W
Box Butte Reservoir SRA, 9 1/2 mi. N. On the Niobrara River. Offers powerboating and primitive campsites. 60 tents, 64 trailers, $6-12. www.outdoornebraska.ne.gov.
308-665-2900
YR
EW
Shared Outdoors, 130 Old Dunlap Rd., Hemingford, $20-$40 sharedoutdoors.com RV hookups with water, electricity and shower/toilet facilities. Tents, cots, grill, refrigerator and fire pit available. (see ad pg. 52)
308-487-3426
EWS
• •
FS
F
P
PF
F
• •
F P
PF
•
P
PF
•
FPS
F
• •
•
Hidden Acres Campground, 16501 W. Murray Rd. Horse corral available. 5 tents, 18 trailers, $12.
308-368-7654
EWS
Krazy Kirbs RV Park, I-80 Exit 67, A family owned, quaint and quiet campground with easy access from I-80., unlimited tents, 10 trailers, $15-$25, weekly rates available.
308-530-7368
EWS
Ranchland Motel Campground, 305 E. Hwy 2.
308-458-2264
EWS
Simpson’s Trailer Court, 316 Morton St. Unlimited tents, 6 trailers. Call for rates.
308-458-2354
YR
EWS
Oliver SRA, 8 mi. W. on US Hwy 30. Enjoy 270 acres of water and 917 acres of land. Powerboating, camping and picnicking. 100 tents, 75 trailers, $6. www.outdoornebraska.ne.gov.
308-436-3777
YR
W
Admiral’s Cove Resort, 999 Lemoyne Rd. 5 trailers, 25 cabins, $15. www.admiralscoveresort.com.
308-355-2102
May-Sep 3
EW
North Shore Lodge, Lake McConaughy Gate 5, Seasonal resort on Lake McConaughy. Launching service available. 23 trailers, 18 cabins. Call for rates. www.northshorelodge.net.
308-355-2222
May-Oct
EWS
Highway 26 RV Park and Camping, 311 Home St. www.hwy26rvpark.com
308-778-9552
Oregon Trail Trading Post, E. of Lewellen on US Hwy 26. Restaurant, lounge, sporting goods, ATM, convenience store and diesel gas available. 12 tents, 12 trailers. Call for rates.
308-778-5879
YR
EWS
Pleasant View Lodge at Otter Creek, 1290 NE Hwy 92 W., Lake McConaughy. Affordable and clean. 8 tents, 8 trailers, 10 cabins, $5-20. www.homesatlakemac.com.
308-355-5000 888-568-7620
YR
EW
•
P
F
•
Fort McPherson Campground, 12568 S. Valley View Rd, 2 mi. S., 1/2 mi. W., 1/2 mi. S. of I-80 Exit 190. Quiet, shade trees and fishing access. Ranch house available. Sleeps 8. 35 tents, 30 trailers, 3 cabins, $10-20. www.fortmcphersoncampground.com.
308-582-4320
May 1Oct 1
EWS
•
FS
F
•
Cottonwood Lake SRA, 1/2 mi. E., 1/2 mi. S. Shaded by cottonwood trees. Near Arthur Bowring Ranch State Historical Park. Unlimited tents, $4. www.outdoornebraska.ne.gov.
308-684-3428
YR
W
•
P
PF
Shady Spot RV Camp, 402 N. Main St, 1 blk N. of Jct US Hwy 20 & NE Hwy 61. Small, quiet, friendly RV park in Sandhills cattle country. 6 trailers, $10.
308-684-3330
June 1Sep 1
EWS
Lake Minatare SRA, 7 mi. N. of Minatare on Stonegate Rd. Excellent sand beach east of the dam. Choice camping and boating facilities. 110 tents, 50 trailers, $7-18.
308-783-2911
Scenic Knolls Campground, 20548 NE Hwy 29. 6 trailers, $15, www.mitchellcity.net.
308-623-2468
Mar-Sep
EW
Scotts Bluff County Fairgrounds, 130625 Cty Rd E. Horse boarding, $10. 14+ tents, 80+ trailers, $10-15. www.scottsbluffcountyfair.net.
308-623-1828
YR
EW
Zeigler Park, 1280 Center Ave. 4 trailers, $5. www.mitchellcity.net.
308-623-1616
YR
Glidden Sandhills Motel/Campground, 507 S.W. 1st (W. NE Hwy 2). 10 trailers, $15, www.sandhillsmotel.com. (see ad pg. 52)
308-546-2206 888-278-6167
A-1 Sunset Mobile Park, 3120 Rodeo Rd. Wi-Fi access and cable service. 22 trailers, $30.
EW
W
• •
F F
F
F P
PF F
• •
FPS
F
FS
F F
F
•
FPS
PF F
•
FS
F
E
F
F
YR
EWS
FS
F
308-532-9182
YR
EWS
FS
F
Buffalo Bill Ranch SRA, US Hwy 83 N. to US Hwy 30, 2 mi. W., 1 mi. N. North Platte River frontage, camping, picnicking & fishing on 233 acres. 12 tents, 23 trailers, $7-13. (see ad pg. 16)
308-535-8035
YR
EW
P
PF
Cody Park Campground, 1601 N. Jeffers, N. US Hwy 83. 40 trailers, $5, www.ci.north-platte.ne.us/publicservices.
308-535-6706
May 1Oct 15
F
F
Frontier Resort, Marina and Café, 600 Frontier Dr #34, I-80 Exit 177, 5 1/2 mi. S. on US Hwy 83. Campground at Lake Maloney. 4 tents, 15 trailers, $15 tent, $20 RV, $120 weekly.
308-532-8776
YR
EWS
•
FS
F
Holiday RV Park & Campground, 601 Halligan Dr, I-80 Exit 177, N.E. quadrant. Heated pool, large pull-through sites with 50-amp hookups, cable and free Wi-Fi access. 8 tents, 92 trailers. Call for rates. www.holidayparkne.com.
308-534-2265 800-424-4531
YR
EWS
•
FS
F
•
• •
City
Ogallala
Oshkosh Paxton Potter
Rushville Scottsbluff
Sidney
Sutherland
Thedford
Valentine
Name and Address
Phone
Lake Maloney SRA, 5 mi. S. First-come, first-served campground with 132 acres on 1,000acre lake. 50 tents, 120 trailers, $7-14. www.outdoornebraska.ne.gov.
308-535-8025
Lake House Campground, 206 N. Lake Rd. A nice family recreation area with on-site convenience store. 15 tents, 30 trailers, $6-15/night, $80/week.
308-534-5315
Lake Side Camping, 3800 Hadley Dr, I-80 Exit 179, N.E. quadrant, Large pull-through sites with full hookups. 50-amp sites available. Swimming and fishing. 16 tents, 54 trailers.
Open
RV
TC RF AD CR
EW
•
FPS
PF
Apr-Oct
EWS
•
FS
F
308-534-5077 877-648-2267
May 15Sep 15
EWS
FS
F
Cottonwood Grove, 1045 Keystone Roscoe Rd. 6 tents, 10-15 trailers, $20-30.
308-284-2282
YR
EWS
FS
F
Country View Campground, 120 Rd E. 80, I-80 Exit 126, S. 1/2 mi., left at John Deere. Cable TV, Wi-Fi access and pull-through sites., 12 tents, 50 trailers, $27-30. www.cvcampground.com.
308-284-2415
YR
EWS
FS
F
Eagle Canyon Hideaway, 1086 Lakeview W. Rd, Brule. Swimming pool, gameroom, store and café. 16 tents, 21 trailers, 17 cabins. Call for rates. www.eagle-canyon.com.
308-287-2673 866-866-5253
Mar 1Dec 30
EWS
•
FS
F
Lake McConaughy SRA, 1475 NE Hwy 61 N., 9 mi. N.E. Nebraska’s largest reservoir. Unlimited tents, 242 trailers. Call for rates. www.outdoornebraska.ne.gov.
308-284-8800
YR
EWS
•
FPS
PF
Lake Ogallala SRA, 1475 NE Hwy 61 N., 10 mi. N., E. side of dam. Quiet lake below Lake McConaughy dam. Unlimited tents, 82 trailers. Call for rates. www.outdoornebraska.ne.gov.
308-284-8800
YR
EW
•
FPS
PF
Sleepy Sunflower RV Park, 221 Rd E. 85, I-80 Exit 126 S. Newly remodeled. Dog park, rec room, WiFi and fun activities. 10 tents, 48 trailers, $23-26. www.sleepysunflower.com
308-284-1300
YR
EWS
•
FS
F
Van’s Lake View Fishing Camp, Brule, 13 mi. N.W. of I-80 on US Hwy 26, #1 Lake View. Lake McConaughy campground. 15 tents, 100 trailers, 2 cabins, $12-28. www.vanslakeview.com.
308-284-4965
May 1Oct 1
EWS
•
FPS
F
Oregon Trail Campsite, 402 W. Ave A. Beautiful Sandhills scenery with nearby attractions. 7 tents, 15 trailers. Call for rates. www.oregontrailcampsite.com.
308-778-7395
Apr 1Nov 1
EWS
FS
F
The Lodge, 851 Paxton Elise Rd, I-80 Exit 145. 12 tents, 12 trailers, $20.
308-239-4510
YR
EWS
M&S Campground & Trailer Park, 1325 Front St, I-80 Exit 38. 6 trailers. Call for rates.
308-879-4224
YR
EWS
Point of Rocks RV Park, 8175 US Hwy 30. Full-service RV park and campground in beautiful country setting. 10 tents, 24 trailers. Call for rates.
308-879-4400
May-Nov
EWS
Rushville Service Center, W. US Hwy 20. 5 tents, 6 trailers, $10.
308-327-2375
YR
EWS
Chimney Rock Pioneer Crossing, 3 mi. S. of Bayard at Jct Cty Rd 75 & NE Hwy 92. Along Oregon Trail in shadow of Chimney Rock. 30 tents, 16 trailers, $8-20. www.chimneyrockpioneerxing.com.
308-631-4478
YR
EWS
Flying Bee Ranch LLC, Bayard, 4 1/2 mi. S. of NE Hwy 92 at McGrew. Working cattle ranch. Hike the scenic Wildcat Hills. 10 trailers, 1 cabins, $15-20. www.flyingbee-ranch.com.
308-783-2885
YR
EW
Riverside Campground, 1514 S. Beltline Hwy W. Shade trees, fishing ponds and heated showers. Near Riverside Zoo. 50+ tents, 43 trailers, $7-20. www.scottsbluff.org.
308-632-6342
May 1Sep 30
EWS
Route 26 Campground, 180454 US Hwy 26. 6 tents, 38 trailers, $16-26.
308-635-3760
Apr-Oct 1
EWS
Sportsman Inn Campground, 4 mi. W. on US Hwy 26, 6 trailers. www.sportsmaninn.webs.com.
308-632-6012
YR
EW
Bear Family RV Park, I-80 Exit 59, E. US Hwy 30. Unlimited tents, 25 trailers, $25.
308-254-6074
June-Oct
EWS
Cabela’s Campground, I-80 Exit 59, next to Cabela’s. 6 tents, 31 trailers. Call for rates.
308-254-7177
YR
EWS
Oregon Trail Park, 31200 W. Tower Rd, 1 mi. S. of I-80 Exit 158. Golf course, water activities and dirt track nearby. 10 tents, 31 trailers, $7-20. www.oregontrailgolfcoursene.org.
308-386-4653
MarNov
EW
Sutherland SRA, 3 mi. S. Primitive camping, powerboating, fishing and a swimming beach on 3,017-acre lake. 35 tents, 50 trailers, $7.
308-535-8025
YR
W
•
Arrowhead Lodge & Café, 39293 NE Hwy 2, Jct NE Hwy 2 & US Hwy 83. Shaded sites with 30- and 50-amp hookups. Seasonal café. 2 tents, 8 trailers, $13-14. www.freewebs.com/arrowheadlodge
308-645-2246
YR
EWS
•
Roadside Inn Campground, 39357 E. NE Hwy 2, 1 mi. E. on NE Hwy 2, Full hookups including cable TV. Phone access available. 4 tents, 10 trailers, $18.50. www.roadsideinn.net.
308-645-2284 800-373-1648
YR
EWS
•
A&C Outfitters, 18 mi. E. on NE Hwy 12, 5 mi. S., 1 mi. E. Call for rates.
• • •
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•
F F
• • • • • • • • •
FS
F F
FS
F
P
F
FS
F
FS
F
•
F FS
F
FS
F
FP
F
P
PF F
F
F
PS
F
402-376-2839
Apr-Sep
EW
Berry Bridge Resort, 13 mi. E. on NE Hwy 12, 3 mi. S. Concessions on-site. 18 tents, 8 trailers, 4 cabins, $7/person per night. www.niobraracamping.com.
402-376-3474
May 15Oct 15
E
•
FPS
F
Fishberry Campground, HC 14 Box 1, 4 1/2 mi. N. on US Hwy 83. Full hookups and free WiFi access. 10 tents, 22 trailers, $28. www.fishberrycampground.com. (see ad pg. 57)
402-376-1662 866-376-1662
May 1Nov 1
EWS
•
FS
F
Fritz’s Island Campground, 7 1/2 mi. S.E. of Sparks. Modern campground on Niobrara with riverside campsites and tube rental. 60 tents, 20 trailers, $6-27. www.campniobrara.com.
402-376-3791 877-700-3791
May-Oct
EW
•
FPS
F
Graham’s Camp, 5 mi. S. of Sparks. Can accommodate small to large groups. 50 tents, $6/ person per night, free under age 10. www.grahamoutfitters.com.
402-376-3708 800-322-3708
Apr 1Nov 1
•
PS
F
Merritt Reservoir, 28 mi. SW on NE Hwy 97. Primitive and modern camping on 3,000-acre reservoir in heart of Sandhills. 215 trailers, $7-14. www.outdoornebraska.ne.gov.
402-376-3320
YR
EW
FPS
PF
•
Merritt Trading Post, 26 mi. SW on NE Hwy 97. 7 trailers, 15 cabins, $14-22. www.merritttradingpost.com.
402-376-3437
YR
EWS
FS
F
•
Riverside RV Park & Campground, 100 River Dr, 2 1/2 mi. S. Go-karts. 20 tents, 23 trailers, $10-20. 3 cabins. Prices vary. www.valentinecamp.com.
402-376-2958
Apr 1Oct 1
EWS
FPS
F
•
•
•
Official Travel Guide • 85
City
Wellfleet Wood Lake
Open
RV
TC RF AD CR
Rock Barn Outfitters, Sparks, E. on NE Hwy 12 to Mile Marker 28, 5 mi S., 1 1/2 mi E. River outfitting services available. 40 tents, 6 trailers, $5/person. www.rockbarnoutfitters.com.
Name and Address
402-376-1764 800-335-6252
May 15Sep 15
W
•
PS
F
Rocky Ford Camp & Outfitters LLC, 13 mi. S. of Sparks. Riverfront camping with fire rings and grills. 35 tents, 8 trailers, 5 cabins, $3/person. www.rockyfordoutfitters.com.
402-376-1124 800-497-3479
Apr 15Sep 15
EW
•
FPS
F
Smith Falls State Park, 3 mi. W., 4 mi. S. of Sparks. Primitive camping, reservable 1 yr in advance. Straddles the Niobrara National Scenic River. 25 tents, 5 trailers, $4. www.outdoornebraska.ne.gov.
402-376-1306
YR
W
•
FPS
PF
Sparks Store & RV Camp, 101 Main St, Sparks, 18 mi. E. of Valentine on NE Hwy 12. 30 tents, 6 trailers, 2 cabins. Call for rates. www.drylandaquatics.com.
402-376-3119 800-337-3119
Apr-Nov
EW
•
FPS
F
Steer Creek Campground, Samuel R. McKelvie Nat’l Forest, 20 mi. S. of Nenzel. A quiet, secluded place near Merritt Reservoir. 23 tents, 23 trailers, $5.
308-533-2257
YR
•
P
F
Sunny Brook Camp LLC, Sparks, 11 mi. S.E. of Sparks. Quiet, alcohol-free campground. 20 tents, 3 trailers, 2 cabins. Call for rates. www.sunnybrookcamp.com.
402-376-1887 877-376-1887
YR
FPS
F
Valentine City Park, N. Main St. Primitive camping along Minnechaduza Creek. 5 tents, $5.
402-376-2323
May-Sep
FS
F
Wacky West Travel Park, 702 E. C St. Walking distance to stores, restaurants and theater. Next to Cowboy Trail. Cable TV service. 10 tents, 31 trailers. Call for rates.
402-376-1771 866-376-1771
YR
EWS
FS
F
Dancing Leaf Earth Lodge, 6100 E. Opal Springs Rd. American Indian earth lodge replica. 20 tents, 9 trailers, 3 cabins, $12 tent, $15 RV, $50-75 cabin. www.dancingleaf.com.
308-963-4233
YR
EW
FPS
F
Village Park, 3rd & Main Sts. 2 trailers, donation.
402-967-3054
May-Sep
EWS
F
F
Golf Courses City
Alliance Bayard
Phone
EW
• • • •
Please call ahead to golf courses for more information, including: hours, tee time reservations, cart availability and rental fees.
Phone
Holes
Type
Green Fees
Sky View, 2613 Cty Rd 57
Name and Address
308-762-1446
18
Public
$15-30
Chimney Rock Golf Course, N. US Hwy 26
308-586-1606
9
Public
Under $15
Benkelman
Benkelman Golf Course, US Hwy 34
308-423-4653
9
Public
Under $15
Bridgeport
Courthouse & Jail Rock Golf Course, 5 mi. S. on NE Hwy 88
308-262-9925
9
Public
Under $15
Bayside Golf Club, 865 Lakeview W. Rd
308-287-4653
18
Public
$15-30
Chadron
Ridgeview Country Club, 16611 US Hwy 385
308-432-4468
9
Semi-Private
Under $15
Chappell
Chappell Golf Course, US Hwy 385
308-874-2729
9
Public
Under $15
Crawford
Legend Buttes Golf Course, 3440 US Hwy 20 – 1/2 mi. W. on US Hwy 20
308-665-2431
9
Public
Under $15
Monument Shadows Golf Course, 2550 Clubhouse Dr
308-635-2277
18
Public
Under $15
Gordon Golf and Country Club, 6535 210th Ln - 2nd & Willow Sts
308-282-1146
9
Semi-Private
Under $15
Hemingford Golf Course, Fremont St
308-487-3639
9
Public
Under $15
Hyannis
Pelican Beach Golf Club, 2 1/4 mi. E. on NE Hwy 2
308-458-2579
9
Public
Under $15
Imperial
Imperial Country Club, W. 5th St
308-882-4697
9
Public
$15-30
Kimball
Four Winds, E. US Hwy 30
308-235-4241
18
Public
$15-30
Mitchell
Scenic Knolls, 20458 NE Hwy 29
308-623-2468
9
Public
Under $15
Rolling Green Golf Course, 520 Rail Rd (see ad pg. 39)
308-247-2817
9
Public
Under $15
Brule
Gering Gordon Hemingford
Morrill Mullen
Dismal River Golf Course, 83040 Dismal River Trl
308-546-2900
18
Semi-Private
Over $30
Mullen Golf Course, 102 N. Veteran – W. NE Hwy 2
308-546-2445
9
Public
$15-30
Indian Meadows Public Golf Course, 2746 W. Walker Rd.
308-532-6955
9
Public
Under $15
Iron Eagle Golf Course, 2401 Halligan Dr – N. of I-80 Exit 179 (see ad pg. 17)
308-535-6730
18
Public
$15-30
Lake Maloney Golf Club, 608 Birdie Ln – 5 mi. S. of I-80 on US Hwy 83, 2 mi. W.
308-532-9998
18
Semi-Private
$15-30
West Wind Golf Club, 359 Rd E. 85 –1 1/2 mi. E. of I-80 Exit 126 (see ad pg. 21)
308-284-4358
18
Public
Over $30
Prairie Pines Golf Course, 402 Prairie Pine Dr
308-879-4469
9
Public
Under $15
Sand Ridge, 3rd St & Golf Course Ln
308-327-2966
9
Public
$15-30
Riverview Country Club, 100928 Cty Rd 19
308-635-1555
18
Public
Under $15
Hillside Golf Course, 2616 Hillside Dr (see ad pg. 90)
308-254-2311
18
Public
$15-30
Augusta Wind, 1 mi. S. on US Hwy 83
308-636-2428
9
Public
Under $15
Oregon Trail Golf Course, 1 mi. S., 1/4 mi. E. of I-80 Exit 158, NE Hwy 25 Tower Rd
308-586-4653
9
Semi-Private
Under $15
Thedford
Thedford Golf Course, 1 mi. S. on US Hwy 83
308-645-2634
9
Public
Under $15
Valentine
The Prairie Club, 109 S. Main St
888-402-1101
18
Semi-Private
Over $30
Valentine Golf Club, 3 mi. E. on NE Hwy 12
402-376-1271
9
Public
Under $15
North Platte
Ogallala Potter Rushville Scottsbluff Sidney Stapleton Sutherland
86 • Journey to Western Nebraska 2014
• • •
•
Friends of Western Nebraska Tourism
Official Travel Guide • 87
Tourism Contact Information TRAVELING NEBRASKA’S WESTERN FRONTIER can be the adventure of a lifetime. All year-long, quality merchants, entertaining attractions and exciting events await those seeking to explore the West. If you need a little help planning your trail, the helpful folks below would be delighted to throw you a rope, or proudly tell you all about what makes their communities and the region such a special place to live, work and play in. Heck, we already know it’s a great place to visit, too.
Alliance Alliance Visitors Bureau or Alliance Chamber of Commerce 305 Box Butte • Alliance, NE 69301 800-738-0648 • 877-269-8776 www.alliancechamber.com • www.visitalliance.com
Gering Gering Convention and Visitors Bureau 1050 M St • Gering, NE 69341 308-436-6886 • 800-245-0717 karlan@geringciviccenter.com www.visitgering.com
Arthur Arthur Chamber of Commerce PO Box 68 • Arthur, NE 69121 308-764-2238
Terrytown Village Office 116 Terry Blvd • Gering, NE 69341 308-632-7212 cityofterrytown@cityoftt.com
Bayard Bayard City Office PO Box 160 • Bayard, NE 69334 308-586-1121 • bayardc@charterinternet.com www.cityofbayard.net
Gordon Gordon Chamber of Commerce PO Box 160 • Gordon, NE 69343 308-282-0730 • info@gordonchamber.com www.gordonchamber.com
Big Springs Big Springs Chamber of Commerce 101 E Second St • Big Springs, NE 69122 308-889-3681 • springs@megavision.com www.ci.big-springs.ne.us
Halsey Halsey Frontier Inn 305 Hwy 2 • PO Box 96 • Halsey, NE 69142 308-533-2240 • rockingrc@neb-sandhills.net www.halseyfrontierinn.com
Bridgeport Bridgeport Chamber of Commerce PO Box 640 • Bridgeport, NE 69336 308-262-1825 • Pwcc98@hamilton.net www.bridgeportneb.com
Harrison Harrison Community Club Inc. PO Box 452 • Harrison, NE 69346 308-668-2736 • rexcr@msn.com
Chadron Chadron Chamber of Commerce 706 W 3rd St • PO Box 646 • Chadron, NE 69337 308-432-4401 • 800-603-2937 chamber@chadron.com • www.chadron.com Chappell Chappell Chamber of Commerce PO Box 121 • Chappell, NE 69129 308-874-2658 • www.chappellne.org Crawford Crawford Chamber of Commerce PO Box 145 • Crawford, NE 69339 308-665-1817 • crawfordchamber@yahoo.com www.crawfordnebraska.us
Byways Contacts Hwy 2 – Sandhills Journey Scenic Byway PO Box 225 • Thedford, NE 69166 308-645-2715 or 402-450-2268 www.sandhillsjourney.com Hwy 20 – Bridges to Buttes Byway PO Box 201 • Valentine, NE 69201 800-658-4024 • valentinecc@qwestoffice.net www.bridgestobuttes.com Hwy NE 26/US 92 – Western Trails Historic & Scenic Byway Ogallala/Keith County Chamber 418 N Spruce • Ogallala, NE 69153 308-284-4066 • 800-658-4390 orla@visitogallala.com Gering Convention and Visitors Bureau 1050 M St • Gering, NE 69341 308-436-6886 • karlan@geringciviccenter.com Hwy 385 – Gold Rush Byway 658 Glover Rd • Sidney, NE 69162 308-254-4030 • 866-545-4030 www.sidneycheyennecountytourism.com cheycotour@aol.com
88 • Journey to Western Nebraska 2014
Hay Springs Hay Springs Chamber of Commerce PO Box 158 • Hay Springs, NE 69347 308-638-7273 Hemingford Village of Hemingford PO Box 395 • Hemingford, NE 69348 308-487-3465 • peggyr@bbc.net www.ci.hemingford.ne.us Kimball Kimball County Tourism PO Box 299 • Kimball, NE 69145 308-241-0573 • visit@kimballne.org kimballne.org Lewellen Volunteers of America 305 Main Street • PO Box 128 • Lewellen, NE 69147 308-778-5548 • voa@lakemac.net Lisco Lisco State Bank/Lisco Oldtimers PO Box 105 • Lisco, NE 69148 308-772-3226 • MShearer@fnbancs.com Lodgepole Lodgepole Village Office PO Box 266 • Lodgepole, NE 69149 308-483-5353
Alan J. Bartels
Mullen Sandhills Motel and Glidden Canoe Rental 507 SW 1st • PO Box 368 • Mullen, NE 69152 308-546-2206 • 888-278-6167 pglidde@neb-sandhills.net www.gliddencanoerental.com North Platte North Platte/Lincoln County Convention & Visitors Bureau 315 W. Eugene Ave. • North Platte, NE 69101 800-955-4528 • www.VisitNorthPlatte.com Ogallala Keith County Visitors Center 119 East 2nd, Ogallala, NE 69153 800-658-4390 • info@visitogallala.com www.ilovelakemac.com www.visitogallala.com Oshkosh Oshkosh/Garden Co. Chamber of Commerce PO Box 256 • Oshkosh, NE 69154 308-772-3333 • www.ci.oshkosh.ne.us Potter Potter Community Improvement Group 3042 Road 77 • PO Box 106 • Potter, NE 69156 308-879-4277 • www.potterne.com Scottsbluff Scottsbluff/Gering United Chamber of Commerce Scotts Bluff County Tourism 1517 Broadway, Suite 104 • Scottsbluff, NE 69361 800-788-9475 • tourism@visitscottsbluff.com www.VisitScottsBluff.com Sidney Cheyenne County Tourism 658 Glover Road • Sidney, NE 69162 308-254-4030 • 866-545-4030 • cheycotour@aol.com www.sidneycheyennecountytourism.com Sutherland Sutherland Chamber of Commerce PO Box 81 • Sutherland, NE 69165 308-386-4617 • villageorsutherland.com
Minatare Village of Minatare PO Box 483 • Minatare, NE 69356 308-783-1414
Thedford Thomas County Tourism PO Box 225 • Thedford, NE 69166 308-645-2715 • 402-450-2268 • Twitt02@nebnet.net www.tourthomascountynebraska.com
Mitchell Mitchell Chamber of Commerce PO Box 72 • Mitchell, NE 69357 308-623-1523 • fact@prairieweb.com www.mitchellcity.net
Valentine Valentine Chamber of Commerce 239 S Main St • PO Box 201 • Valentine, NE 69201 402-376-2969 • 800-658-4024 valentinecc@qwestoffice.net • www.visitvalentine.com
Morrill Morrill Community Development Group PO Box 363 • Morrill, NE 69358 308-247-3132 • Ron_kuncl@webtv.net www.villageofmorrill.com
301 Centennial Mall South, 4th Floor • PO Box 98907 Lincoln, NE 68509-8907 • 800-426-6505 • 877-NEBRASKA tourism@VisitNebraska.org • www.VisitNebraska.org
Nebraska Division of Travel & Tourism
Official Travel Guide • 89