A Journal of Outdoor Recreation in the Northwestern Panhandle
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Your Guide To Many Outdoor Activities: Hiking Biking Swimming Backpacking Snowmobiling Hiking Ice fishing Geocaching
ftarkeeonee!
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Enjoy the Outdoors in Northwest Nebraska From the editor Northwest Nebraska offers unique opportunities to enjoy the outdoor lifestyle. Our residents and visitors are blessed with the chance to view a multitude of wildlife, take to the trail by bike, by foot, on horseback or to find motorized trails to enjoy by ATV. Add in cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, hunting, fishing and there are no boundaries to outdoor recreation in northwest Nebraska. This guide provides a snapshot of the opportunities out there for you to enjoy, so ...
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Make your way to
FUR TRADE DAYS Chadron, Nebraska July 7-10, 2016 Come see what’s new at Chadron Fur Trade Days!
Fun for the Whole Family
Wherever you’re going, we’re on the way!
Parade • Traders’ M arket • Live Music Primitive Rendezvou s • Buffalo Chip Thro w • Art Show Native American Film F e s ti va l • Rotary Colter Ru Softball Tournament n • Canoe Races • Ic e Cream Socal
& More!
For more information: Find us on Facebook, visit furtradedays.com, or email info@furtradedays.com Fur Trade Days is funded in part by a grant from the Dawes County Travel Board
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Life on High: Explore the Pine Ridge Buttes ❖ By Julie Pfister
Record Ad Manager
The Northwestern Panhandle of Nebraska area has long been a place for fun and recreation! These rolling plains and pine lined buttes have hosted many an event and more often family adventures. For the outdoor enthusiast, the rocky buttes are great for hiking, climbing and even rappelling. Once you decide to go for it and take the climb, these famous buttes will rise to the occasion and fulfill your adventure. For the less adventurous, the buttes are still a sight to see and photograph. The most famous of these are Step Up Butte (pictured at right) in the Chadron State Park. It is an easy climb and once on top overlooks the best view of our beautiful Pine Ridge. It is a baby as buttes go but worth the climb.
That is only a start! Just follow Highway 20 to the west and check out the buttes on the south side of the highway. First up as you travel from Chadron to Crawford is Rattlesnake Butte (below) known for its frequent sightings of the ominous snake that warns you of its presence with a powerful rattle of his tail. Beautifully lined with pines, this butte is home to many species of wildlife. The mule deer hide in the thick underbrush of the butte and antelope graze the slopes. Owls, coyote and many rodent family members thrive in and around this butte. (NOTE: This is private property so no hiking here, but you can still enjoy the view).
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Buttes
Next you will see Flannigan Butte (pictured at left). This butte is 4,117 feet high and has a beautiful cliff facing the west. For your next adventure try a hike on Flannigan. It is between three to five mile hike, depending on where you start from. It is on government land so the road will take you close if you choose to go that route. This tall butte will fill your family’s day with full blown excitement.
BAUERKEMPER’S 1080 w. highway 20 • chadron, ne www.bauerkempers.net/308-432-3592
Page 6 - Go, Do! 2016 Clip-N-Save
May 1 6-7 7 8 8 14 16 21 28 TBD
Season Opening at High Plains Homestead Community-Wide Garage Sale in Chadron, sponsored by The Chadron Record Chadron State College Graduation Day Mother’s Day Buffet at Fort Robinson Restaurant, 10 am – 2 pm Mother’s Day Dinner at High Plains Home stead Chadron High School Graduation Free Park Entry and Fish Day at Chadron State Park and Fort Robinson State Park Free Park Day: BBQ & Kid’s Fishing Derby at Fort Robinson Opening Day of Summer Activities at Chadron State Park and Fort Robinson State Park Memorial Day Cookout at High Plains Home stead
June TBD Electronics Recycling, sponsored by Keep Chadron Beautiful 18 Ride The Ridge 19 Father’s Day Buffet at Fort Robinson July 1-4 2 3-4 4 8-10 11 15-16
Western & Wildlife Art Show at Fort Robinson Veterinary Hospital Old West Trail Rodeo Junior Fun Day, Crawford NE Old West Trail PRCA Rodeo, Crawford NE Happy Hustlers 4th of July Flag Raising Chadron Fur Trade Days CSC Fundraiser Tournament, Legend Buttes Health Services Classics in the Park Car Show
Buttes
Once you pass Flannigan Butte you are very close to the little burg of Whitney, and near the turn off to Whitney is a long, tall butte called Trunk Butte (above). It was given the name because it looks like an old fashioned trunk. The rough slopes are craggy and deep. You can see this butte for miles and use it as a navigation point. On a good day when all is fair and mild you might even see an antelope looking out over its prairie home or a deer perched on the lookout.
August 30-7 Dawes County Fair, Dawes County Fairgrounds 3-9 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally September 5 Labor Day Celebration/5K Run, High Plains Homestead
www.chadron.com 706 W 3rd St, Chadron, NE 69337 (308) 432-4401
Farther down the highway you will now see a majestic, tall, square topped butte call Crow Butte (above). This butte has a history as it was the site of a major battle between the Sioux and Crow tribes. It rises 900 feet above the White River five miles to the north and is ranked as the 14th highest summit in Nebraska. The sheer cliffs are among the top 10 steepest in Nebraska.
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130th Annual
DAWES COUNTY FAIR July 29–August 5, 2016
Sunday, July 31 • Antique Tractor Pull • Dawes County Hall of Fame Awards • Heartland Truck & Tractor Pull (paid event)
Monday, August 1
Buttes
As you enter into the small town of Crawford you can look to the west and see a wall of buttes that line the highway east to west as you roll on through Crawford to historic Fort Robinson State Park. These buttes are called Red Cloud Buttes (above). They are home to over 45 trailheads that cover the enormous area of butte rock, pines, and prairie. They border the park on east. You might even be lucky enough to see bighorn sheep, antelope, Longhorn cattle or maybe even a mountain lion. These buttes will hold your attention and deliver you many days of fun for your family.
• Open Class Check-In • Gymkhana Youth Rodeo
Tuesday, August 2 • Ranch Rodeo
Wednesday, August 3 • Tough Truck
Enjoy a round of Frisbee golf ❖ By Janelle Kesterson
Thursday, August 4
For the Record
If you’re looking for something fun to do in the Chadron area, look no further than the Frisbee golf courses at Chadron Memorial Park and Chadron State Park. All you need is a Frisbee and good arm. At the War Memorial Park Complex, located on Ninth and Shelton streets, there is a nine-hole disc golf course; and at Chadron State Park, located eight miles south of Chadron, there is another nine-hole course. Chadron State Park recently received a $4,000 grant from the Dawes County Travel Board’s improvement fund. The money was used to purchase 10 new baskets
Please see Frisbee Golf, Page 8
• Rubber Check Race
Friday, August 5 • Dance, Sponsored by 4-H. Begins 30 minutes after Livestock Sale 8:30–11:30 pm Proud to Support Dawes County 4-H
www.dawescountyfair.com
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Frisbee Golf
from page 7
for course expansion. There for each of the holes is will be nine new holes added three. to the course, along with “I know when my kids concrete tee pads and signs were in high school they went and played almost with the course map pictured. every afternoon,” said A donation from Vicki Scott Schremmer, City of Schmidt will be used to put a Chadron parks superintenputting practice basket at the dent. “I just think it is a Lagoon parking lot area, and great outdoor activity.” other donations were made While it is not required, toward tee signs and a course some players opt to use welcome sign. discs that are meant speThe park is in the process cifically for disc golf to of installing the new baskets, improve the distance and concrete tee pads, and signs accuracy of their shots. according to Chadron State “I like playing disc Park Superintendent Gregg golf because it is fun,” Galbraith. The expansion is Chadron State College planned to be finished by the student Kyle McClaren end of July. Record photo by Kerri Rempp said. “It is a good way to For now, a course map A group of students take advantage of the city’s Frisbee golf course at spend time outside with is available in the Visitor Memorial Park. my friends.” Center, and par for each hole is used regularly by college students McClaren is just one of many is three. The park maintains the and community members alike. Chadron State students who use the course regularly. A course map for the disc disc golf course in Chadron on a The City of Chadron maintains golf course at Memorial Park in regular basis. its disc golf course during the winChadron can be found at https:// Disc golf is a good outdoor activter, repairing the baskets and paintwww.google.com/maps/d/u/0/ ity for any day; just make sure to ing them because once the weather viewer?mid=zKvHolPyZvlg. pick a calm day because the wind starts to get warm, the course gets kD5VB7BSbyLw&hl=en, and par can carry Frisbees away. used almost every day. The course
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Nebraska’s public lands provide hunting opportunities ❖ By Nebraska Game & Parks
The Open Fields and Waters (OFW) provides financial incentives for allowing public walk-in access and the opportunity for private landowners to work with Game and Parks biologists to improve wildlife habitat. These programs have opened more than 260,000 acres of private land to hunting and fishing and more than 42 miles of river to the public in Nebraska. The Northwest Region covers the Panhandle of Nebraska and offers abundant resources for hunters. In the northwestern region of the Panhandle (Sioux, Sheridan and Dawes counties) public lands include: Bighorn WMA – Dawes County; 1E of Crawford on U.S. Hwy. 20, 8E, 1S and 1E on Bethel Road, 1S on Bethel Loop Road; deer, dove, rabbit, squirrel, turkey; 1,230 acres Bordeaux WMA – Dawes County; 3E of Chadron
Abbreviation Key Big Game Check Stations
SHP - State Historical Park WMA Wildlife Management Area SP - State Park FR - Federal Reservoir WPA - Waterfowl Production Area NRD Natural Resources District SRA - State Recreation Area NF - National Forest COE - Corps of Engineers NWR - National Wildlife Refuge
Chadron – Ace Hardware, 760 West 3rd Street, 308-432-4504, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Crawford – Crossroads Mini Mart, 1120 7th Street, 308-665-2000, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Harrison – Harrison Utilities Shop, 130 E Highway 20, 308-665-5199; 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. or call for appointment Rushville – Bosselman Pump and Pantry, 220 W Highway 20, 308-327-2461
on U.S. Hwy. 20; deer, dove, elk, rabbit, turkey; 1,915 acres Box Butte Reservoir SRA/WMA – Dawes County; 10N of Hemingford; deer, pheasant, rabbit, turkey, waterfowl; 2,212 acres Chadron Creek Ranch WMA – Dawes County; 11S of Chadron; deer, dove, rabbit, squirrel, turkey; 2,449 acres Fort Robinson SP – Sioux County; 3W of Crawford on U.S. Hwy. 20; deer, dove, grouse, rabbit, squirrel, turkey; special free permit required, contact park superintendent at 308-665-2900; 21,500 acres Fort Robinson WMA – Sioux County; 5NW of Crawford, deer, dove, grouse, rabbit, squirrel, turkey; 640 acres Gilbert-Baker WMA - Sioux County; 4½N of Harrison; deer, dove, elk, rabbit, squirrel, turkey; 2,537 Please see Public Lands, Page 10
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Public Lands
from page 9
acres Metcalf WMA – Sheridan County; 10N of Hay Springs; deer, dove, elk, rabbit, squirrel, turkey; 3,236 acres Oglala National Grasslands – Sioux County; north of U.S. 20 Hwy. between Harrison and Crawford; antelope, deer, dove, grouse, rabbit; 94,344 acres Peterson WMA – Sioux County; 9W of Crawford on U.S. Hwy. 20; deer, dove, grouse, rabbit, turkey; 2,400 acres Pine Ridge Division, Nebraska NF – Dawes County; S of U.S. Hwy. 20 between Chadron and Crawford; deer, dove, elk, rabbit, squirrel, turkey; 50,853 acres Ponderosa WMA – Dawes County; 2S of Crawford on Neb. Hwy. 2 to access sign 4E; deer, dove, rabbit, squirrel, turkey; 3,660 acres Smith Lake WMA – Sheridan County; 23S of
Rushville on Neb. Hwy. 250; deer, dove, grouse, pheasant, rabbit, turkey, waterfowl; 640 acres Walgren Lake SRA - Sheridan County; 2½E of Hay Springs, 3S of U.S. Hwy. 20; dove, pheasant, rabbit, waterfowl; 130 acres
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Spend a beautiful day hiking
The U.S. Forest Service provides hiking and picnic areas perfect for a day trip or for a longer camping excursion.
Cliffs Trailhead Numerous trails, both motorized and non-motorized lead from the cliffs providing access to this area of the Nebraska National Forests & Grasslands. At a Glance Operational Hours: Dawn to dusk. Fees: None. Water: No Restroom: Yes. Directions: From intersection of Highway 385 and Highway 20, 5 miles east on Highway 20 to Bordeaux Road. South 7 miles to FS Road # 723. West 1.4 miles to Cliffs Trailhead and Picnic Area. Activities: Day Hiking Access to the Pine Ridge National Recreation Area. Numerous trails leading from the cliffs. Fire Information: One picnic table, 2 fire rings, wood must be brought in. Pack in/pack out site.
West Ash Picnic Area The West Ash Picnic area has 2 picnic tables and 2 fire rings. Access for the Pine Ridge Trail and the West Ash Trailhead is approximately 1/4 mile to the south Parking pads are available, but no garbage service, so please pack it in and pack it out. At a Glance Operational Hours: Dawn to dusk. Area Amenities: Picnic tables Fees: None. Water: No Restroom: No. Directions: From intersection of Highway 385 and Highway 20, south on Highway 385, 13.5 miles to Antelope Road. Turn west and continue 13 miles on Table Road to West Ash Creek Road. Continue on West Ash Creek Road 2.5 miles to West Ash Creek Trailhead. Activities: Day Hiking Access to the Pine Ridge Trail in the Pine Ridge National
Recreation Area. Toadstool Geological Park and Campground Interesting land forms make this a unique experience. At a Glance Operational Hours: Year round. Area Amenities: Interpretive Site,Accessible,Tent camping,Camping trailer,Fee charged for some activities,Picnic tables,Toilets,Parking Fees This is a fee campground from mid May to mid November. $3/vehicle/day use; $5/vehicle/night. Fee envelopes and a collection box are provided near the entrance. Water: No. Restroom: Yes. Directions: From Hot Springs, SD Highway 71 south to intersection of Toadstool Road.. 37 miles Toadstool Road to FS #902... 11 miles Please see Hiking, Page 12
Fort Robinson State Park 3 miles west of Crawford, Neb. on Hwy 20
308-665-2900
2016 EVENTS April 2 - 16 Fire School Academy 8-May 21-May 27-May 28-May 9-Jun 3-Jun June 18 & 19 18-Jun 19-Jun 21-Jun July 1st - 4th July 4th 8/11/2014 12-Sep Sept. 29 7-Nov 14-Nov 20-Nov 3-Dec 12/3/2016
Mother’s Day Buffet 10:30-2:00 Free Park Day, BBQ & Kid’s Fishing Derby Restaurant opens @ 4 p.m. Official opening of Park Activities 4-H Horse Camp State Historical 60th celebration Intertribal Gathering Ride The Ridge Father’s Day Buffet Wildlife Sheep Foundation Mtg. Western and Wildlife Art Show Fort Robinson Fourth of July Celebration BBQ Trotters APHA Trail Ride Voecks/Meade trail Ride Tickets go on sale at 8:00 for the 22nd Annual Historical Christmas Dinner Opening day of deer firearm season Longhorn & Buffalo Sale Historical Christmas Dinner “Light Up The Fort”
www.stateparks.com
ACTIVITIES INCLUDE: Trail Rides Jeep Rides Horse-drawn tours Stagecoach Rides Mountain Bike Rentals Hayrack Breakfast Hayrack Steak Cookout Chuckwagon Cookout Rodeo Events Historic Building Tours Kayak Rides Tubing Hiking ACCOMMODATIONS: Restaurant Tent Camping RV Camping Picnic Areas Barns
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Hiking
from page 11
FS Rd. #902.. 1.4 miles to Toadstool Campground From Crawford, NE Crawford to intersection of Highway 20 and Highway 2 North on Highway 2 to Toadstool Road.. 4.2 miles Toadstool Road to FS Road #902.. 11.4 miles FS Road #902.. 1.4 miles to Toadstool Campground Campground Camping: 6 sites. Covered picnic table for each site. Fire rings and pedestal grills. No drinking water Fire Information: Campfires are allowed, fire rings, grates, and grills are provided. Please don’t bring in wood that may be infested by the Emerald Ash Borer. Day Hiking 3 mile trail to Hudson-Meng Education & Research Center, 1 mile interpretive loop trail. Interpretive Areas Maps of the area lead you to points of interest. Photo by Kodie Rempp
Old West Trail Rodeo
Toadstool Park north of Crawford is a great day hike for families and offers unique geographical features.
Day Hiking Areas
of Non-Stop t PRCA July 2, 3 and 4 at Old West Trail Rodeo Arena July 2nd Junior Rodeo Fun Day July 3rd & 4th PRCA Rodeo Fireworks following the July 4th Rodeo!
Cliffs Trailhead Coffee Mill Trailhead East Ash Trailhead Outrider Trailhead Roberts Tract Camping Area Soldier Creek Camping Area Soldier Creek Wilderness Spotted Tail Trailhead Strong Canyon Trailhead West Ash Picnic Area West Ash Trailhead Hudson-Meng Education & Research Center Toadstool Geological Park and Campground
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Pine Ridge Trails Above: Trails at Soldier Creek Management Area and Fort Robinson State Park; Far Right: Trails at Nebraska National Forest; Immediate Right: Trails at Chadron State Park.
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¬
Box Butte Reservoir 10 N of Hemingford 1,600 Acres**
y ! 24
30
33
15 21
27
On the Water ❖ By Kerri Rempp
39
Record Editor
Fish cleaning station
y Boat ramp ! Roads 3 ft contours
0
0.25
0.5
Miles 1
Box Butte Reservoir, above, and Smith Lake, at right, are two of the lakes in the northern Panhandle for fishing - summer or winter - and boating.
NEBRASKA GAME AND PARKS COMMISSION [ FISHERIES DIVISION **Note: Contours based on Conservation Pool Elevation of 4,007 ft.
Whether you’re a fair weather fisherman, an avid ice fisher or simply want to stay in the boat or hang out on the shore, there are several options in the northern Panhandle for aquatic fun. Box Butte Reservoir 10 miles north of Hemingford in Dawes County offers yearround fishing for northern pike, walleye, largemouth bass, yellow perch and channel catfish. The reservoir has 1,600 water surface acres and 14 miles of shoreline for camping, picknicking and birding more than 200 species of birds have been sighted here. Please see Water, Page 15
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Water
Elsewhere in Dawes County, the pond at Chadron State Park has recently been improved. Though no motor boats are allowed, pedal boats are available and it’s a great atmosphere for a relaxed day of fishing. In Sheridan County, Smith Lake and Walgren Lake offer boating and fishing opportunities, though both are designated as no-wake zones and the speed limit is 5 mph. Non-powered boats and electric motors are allowed on Carter P. Johnson Lake at Fort Robinson in Sioux County. The Whitney Irrigation District owns Whitney Lake, but the body of water is accessible to the public. The Nebraska Game and Parks leases land where the boat ramp and dock are located. For the first time this year, fishermen can land themselves a tiger trout in some of the area’s waterways. The Game and Parks released
from page 14
Record photo by Julie Pfister
Fishing and non-motorized boating are popular at Carter P. Lake at Fort Robinson.
thousands of the hybrid fish, including 750 in the White River that runs through the northern Panhandle,
and 600 in the Wood Reserve Ponds in Sioux County. And if you’re pursuits on the water demand you be a little more physical, head over to Fort Robinson, where they offer canoeing and kayaking along the White River. Record file photo by Julie Pfister
Snow and ice don’t deter residents and visitors from enjoying the great outdoors of the Pine Ridge yearround. When winter rolls in, outdoor lovers dig out the ice fishing equipment, cross country skis, snowshoes and snowmobiles.
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The local fishing scoop Some of the local favorites for fishing follow, but for a complete look at the area’s prospects check out the Game and Park’s interactive Map at http://outdoornebraska. ne.gov/gisapps/fishing.asp
COUNTY: Dawes SPECIES: Blue Catfish, Bluegill, Channel Catfish, Crappie, Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, Rock Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Walleye, Yellow Perch COMMENTS: Subject to severe summer drawdown; primitive campSioux County: ing and electrical hook-ups are availNiobrara River – brown and rainable, all boats allowed. Underwater bow trout, private access, permission required; public access at Agate spearfishing for gamefish starts June 1 Fossil Beds Gilbert Baker Pond – bluegill, largeREGULATIONS: Northern mouth bass, rainbow trout pike - protected slot limit of 28 to 34 inches, daily bag limit of 10, only one of which may be more than 34 Dawes County: inches, possession limit of 20 Box Butte Soldier Creek – brook, brown and ACRES: 1,600 rainbow trout Broke Down? Need a Tow? – public access at Fort Rob and Rental Cars 24-HOUR WILL TAKE YOU at Soldier Creek Available ANYWHERE YOU WANT Tow Service Daily, Weekly WMA Cherry Creek Pond – bluegill, brown and rainbow trout and largemouth bass Chadron Creek – brook and brown trout, CARS, PICKUPS, RVS, MOTORCYCLES, TRAILERS, LOCK OUTS, TIRE CHANGES, FUEL DELIVERY, public access at OFF ROAD RECOVERY, WINCH OUTS, JUMP STARTS Chadron State 308-430-0427. 308-430-2650 Park Chadron State Park Pond – rainThe Value Store bow trout – no 1109 E. 3rd • Chadron boats 432-5533 866-397-9532 Bordeaux Creek www.wahlstromford.com
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– brook and brown trout; public access on Big Bordeaux Creek WMA and USFS lands Sheridan County: Walgren Lake ACRES: 100 COUNTY: Sheridan SPECIES: Bluegill, Bullhead, Channel Catfish, Crappie, Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, Walleye, Yellow Perch COMMENTS: Primitive camping; boats restricted to 5 mph (no wake), wheelchair-accessible fishing pier Smith Lake ACRES: 290 COUNTY: Sheridan SPECIES: Bluegill, Bullhead, Crappie, Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, Walleye, Yellow Perch COMMENTS: Primitive camping, boats restricted to 5 mph (no wake). Handicap accessible concrete boat ramp
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Sshh: How to watch wildlife ❖ By Nebraska Game and Parks
Equipment Binoculars are one of the most helpful tools a wildlife watcher can have. The best all-purpose binoculars are those with power and dimensions of 7 x 35. This size binoculars gather a lot of light, allowing you to use them in the morning and evening. Finding what you are looking at can be made easier if you first locate the object with the naked eye. Then without moving your eyes bring the binoculars to your eyes and focus. Keep your distance If an animal seems nervous, back off. The goal of all wildlife watchers should be to observe nature without disturbing or altering it. The most common mistake people make is trying to get too close to wildlife. A spooked animal might become injured or killed trying to flee, or it may abandon a nest or quit feeding. Never chase a wild animal. Watch the animal’s behavior, it returns to normal activities you are at a safe distance. Never feed wildlife. Silence is Golden Move quietly and encourage your companions to do likewise. Not only will this lessen the wildlife disturbance, you will also see more wildlife. Choose a good vantage spot and sit for a while. Take in the sights, sounds and smells that this place has to offer. You’re not my mother It is fairly common to see young or “baby” animals by themselves during spring. Although they may appear to be orphaned or abandoned, this is rarely the case. The parents of the young are likely standing by, just out of sight. Do unto others...
Record photo by Julie Pfister
The buffalo at Fort Robinson State Park offer a unique wildlife viewing experience in the northern Panhandle.
If you arrive at a site that already has other people watching wildlife, be considerate as you approach. Slamming your car doors, talking too loudly, or moving too quickly may frighten the wildlife and ruin the expePlease see Wildlife, Page 18
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Page 18 - Go, Do! 2016
Wildlife
from page 17
rience for everyone. Get permission You must have permission from the landowner before you can enter private ground. When visiting public lands, be aware of and respect all property boundaries. Do Your Homework Prepare by glancing through field guides and reading up on the wildlife you hope to see. Knowing about the needs and behavior of animals will make spotting and identifying them easier, and will also help you avoid disturbing them.
Record photo by Julie Pfister
This large muley deer posed for the camera one fall day in the northern Panhandle.
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Time of day In general, animals are more active in early morning and late evenings. This is when even nocturnal animals are still active and may offer opportunities to see them. Season of the year Many species appear during certain seasons at particular sites. Some animals hibernate while others concentrate into small wintering areas that may offer close-up opportunities for the patient viewer. Consider weather What we consider “bad” weather may make perfect opportunities for watching some species. Some animals are more active while others may decide to stay put and wait for better weather before resuming their normal activities. Before a storm, some animals come out to feed. After a storm, when the rain stops, the skies clear and the wind dies down, many animals become very active and will offer good viewing opportunities.
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Discover these local treasures
There are dozens and dozens of places to discover in the northern Panhandle, and many of them give the entire family a chance to explore the great outdoors at little to no cost. There are too many to name here, but to get you started, go discover:
Agate Fossil Beds This national monument in Sioux County south of Harrison offers two hiking trails, a sea of native grasses and wildflowers and educational opportunities that range from fossils of the Miocene Epoch to Lakota and ranching history.
Nebraska National Forest and Grasslands The Pine Ridge Ranger District covers the west end of the Nebraska National Forest near Chadron and Crawford. Here you will find the Soldier Creek Wilderness and the Pine Ridge National Recreation Area as well as several developed recreation sites for camping, pic-
nicking, or trailheads for access to miles of trails into the wide open spaces of the Nebraska National Forest.
part of the “Fossil Freeway,” which connects several sites in Nebraska and South Dakota with rich fossil histories.
Hudson-Meng Bison Kill Interpretive exhibits and guided tours help visitors understand this archeological excavation north of Crawford as it’s happening. Part of the Nebraska National Forest and Grasslands, Hudson-Meng’s bison kill was discovered in 1954, and research continues on what caused the massive die-off today.
Chadron State Park Located just south of Chadron, Chadron State Park is Nebraska’s oldest state park, celebrating its 95th anniversary this year. The park has a pond, an archery course, hiking and biking trails, camping, horseback riding, Frisbee golf and more.
Toadstool Geologic Park Not far from Hudson-Meng is Toadstool Geologic Park, with its badlands landscape and unusual rock formations. A hiking trail connects Hudson-Meng and Toadstool (tip - go hiking before the heat of the day sets in). *Note: Agate Fossil Beds, the Trailside Museum at Fort Robinson, Hudson-Meng and Toadstool are all
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Fort Robinson State Park Once an Army fort, Fort Robinson now attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors a year. Whether you’re looking for a way to learn about the area’s history or simploy spend a day or two enjoying nature - by, for example, horseback riding, camping, fishing, kayaking, Jeep rides - Fort Robinson offers it all.
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Area campgrounds and trailheads
Red Cloud Campground Located on the west side of Highway 385 approximately one mile south of the main entrance to Chadron State Park, this campground has picnic tables, parking pads, pedestal grills, fire rings and vault toilets. Tent camping, $5 per night from mid-May to midNovember. No water.
Roberts Tract Campground and Trailhead Located near Roberts Loop Trail, this one-time homestead site, provides horse corrals, rider ramp and stock water from mid-May to mid-October. Picnic tables, a vault toilet and fire rings are provided. No drinking water. Camping is $8 per night from mid-May to midNovember. The Roberts Tract Trailhead ties into the Pine Ridge Trail in the Pine Ridge National Recreation Area. The trailhead provides non-motorized travel for mountain biking, hik-
ing and horseback riding to Spotted Tail Loop, Coffee Mill Trailhead and East Ash Trailhead. Directions: From the intersection of Highways 385 and 20, southwest on Highway 20 9.4 miles to Eleson Road; south three miles, road jogs .5 miles to the west, then continue south four miles to Bethel Road; east one mile to Forest Service Road 737; one mile to Roberts Tract Campground. Soldier Creek Camping Area Adjacent to the Nebraska National Forests and Grassland Soldier Creek Wilderness Area and Fort Robinson, this campground includes primitive campsites, picnic tables, a handpump well, vault toilets, garbage cans and a 15-paddock corral system. Livestock feed is not available and stock water must be hauled to the corral from nearby creeks or from the handpump during the fee period. Fire rings only.$8 per night mid-May to mid-Novem-
ber. Soldier Creek Wilderness Area is non-motorized and open only to horseback riding and hiking. The Wilderness Area can be accessed from three trailheads at the campground: Boots and Saddle Trail from the North Fork Trailhead that ties into the Trooper Trail; and the Trooper Trail Loop access from the Middle and South Fork Trailheads. Directions: From Crawford take Highway 20 for two and a half miles to Fort Robinson, then north on Soldier Creek Road for six miles. Toadstool Geological Park and Campground This interpretive site has tent camping, camping trailer, picnic tables, toilets and parking. $3 per vehicle per day use; $5 per vehicle per night from mid-May to midNovember. Seasonal access only. Fire rings and pedestal grills. No Please see Camping/Trailheads, Page 21
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Go, Do! 2016 - Page 21
Camping/Trailheads
drinking water. Three mile trail to Hudson-Meng Education and Research Center and a one-mile interpretive loop trail. Directions: From Crawford go north on Highway 2 to Toadstool Road 4.2 miles then Toadstool Road to Forest Service Road 902 11. 4 miles, Road 902 to Toadstool Campground, 1.4 miles.
Cliffs Trailhead Numerous trails, both motorized and non-motorized, lead from this area, providing access to the Nebraska National Forest and Grasslands. One picnic table, two fire rings. Pack in-pack out site. Directions: From the intersection of Highways 385 and 20, five miles east on Highway 20 to Bordeaux Road; south seven miles to Forest Service Road 723; west 1.4 miles to Cliffs Trailhead and Picnic Area.
Coffee Mill Trailhead Non-motorized, open to mountain biking, hiking and horseback riding. Entrance to the other areas including: Pine Ridge National Recreation Area, 4 miles; Roberts Trailhead and Campground, 7.5 miles; East Ash Trailhead, 14.5 miles; West Ash Trailhead, 20 miles. Directions: From the intersection of Highways 20 and 385, south on 385, 13.5 miles to Antelope Road. Turn west and continue five miles on Deadhorse Road. Going north, 3.2 miles to Forest Service Road 713 and Coffee Mill Trailhead.
from page 20
East Ash Trailhead Non-motorized access to the Pine Ridge Trail, the Pine Ridge National Recreation Area and West Ash Trailhead. From East Ash to Coffee Mill is 14.5 miles; East Ash to West Ash is 5.5 miles; East Ash to Robert’s Trailhead is 10 miles. Parking area and dispersed camping on the west side of the road. No other services; pack-in, pack-out. Directions: From the intersection of Highways 385 and 20, southwest on Highway 20 9.4 miles to Eleson Road; south three miles, road jogs .5 miles to the west; then continue south 5.4 miles past Bethel Road to Bethel Loop Road; turn west and south to Forest Service Road 706; south 2.4 miles. Outrider Trailhead Located .75 miles north of Chadron State Park’s main entrance from the west side of Highway 385, this provides non-motorized travel and access to several areas, including: Black Hills Overlook, 1.5 miles; Forest Service Road 701, 5 miles; Chadron Creek
Wildlife Area, 6 miles; Deadhorse Road and Trailhead, 9.5 miles. Services include dispersed camping, horse corrals and stock water. No other services available; pack-in, pack-out. Stock water usually available from May to October. Spotted Tail Trailhead Parking for the Pine Ridge Trailhead and Spotted Tail Trailhead is available off Forest Service Road 711. No garbage service, pack-in, pack-out. These are non-motorized trails open to mountain biking, hiking and horseback riding. Distance from Spotted Tail to Chadron State Park using Pine Ridge Trail is 8 Please see Camping/Trailheads, Page 22
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Page 22 - Go, Do! 2016
Camping/Trailheads
from page 21
miles; Spotted Tail Loop is 6 miles. This section of the Pine Ridge Trail offers access to several other trails, both motorized and non-motorized. Directions: From the intersection of Highways 385 and 20, five miles south on Highway 385 to Kings Canyon Road; east .5 miles to Forest Service Road 711. Strong Canyon Trailhead The parking area for this trailhead is located immediately off Highway 385 across from Chadron State Park’s main entrance and has a tight turning radius for trailers. Take Forest Service Road 719 .5 miles to the parking area. No services are provided. Strong Canyon Trailhead is non-motorized and provides access to Spotted Tail Trailhead 7.5 miles to the east. West Ash Picnic Area Two picnic tables and fire rings. Parking pads available, but no garbage service; pack-in, pack-out. Access
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for the Pine Ridge Trail and West Ash Trailhead is approximately one-quarter of a mile to the south. Directions: From the intersection of highways 385 and 20, south on Highway 385, 13.5 miles to Antelope Road; turn west and continue 13 miles on Table Road to West Ash Creek Road; continue for 2.5 miles. West Ash Trailhead Non-motorized trail, small parking area, no other services. East Ash Trailhead is 5.5 miles away, and Roberts Trailhead is 15 miles. Directions: From Crawford, travel east on West Ash Creek Road 11 miles to the trailhead, located on the east side of the road. Hudson-Meng Education and Research Center Visitor center and archeological site. Gift shop, guided tours. Bison Trail to Toadstool Park is three miles. Interpretive site, drinking water, parking. Fees: Adults, $5; Seniors over 60, $4.50; Kids 5-12, $3; Family annual pass, $25 Directions: From Crawford, north on Highway 2 4.2 miles to Forest Service Road 904. 904 to Sand Creek Road 7.4 miles; Sand Creek Road to Hudson-Meng, 6.3 miles
Go, Do! 2016 - Page 23
Area parks offer relaxing outdoor fun Chadron Boog and Mary Horse Park - North Morehead and Belle Fourche streets includes outdoor grills, picnic tables, playground equipment, and a baseball backstop Finnegan Park - Fourth and Cedar streets provides outdoor grills, public restrooms, picnic tables, and ADA approved playground equipment. War Memorial Park Complex - Ninth and Shelton streets provides the Chadron Municipal Pool, tennis courts, basketball court, toddler playground equipment, picnic tables, outdoor grills, and a disc golf course Wilson Park - Ninth and Moorehead streets provides a large picnic shelter, outdoor grills, gazebo, arboretum, public restrooms, horseshoe pit, new playground equipment, sledding hill, and handicap accessible picnic tables. Dog Park - located in the 700 block of West Sixth Street adjacent to the Community Gardens off leash park where you can run and play with your dogs, meet other dog owners and socialize young dogs Ball fields - Roger Eaton Soccer Field, Legion Baseball “Maurice Horse Field,” Little League Baseball “Fitzgibbon Field,” and Women’s Softball “Hampton Field,” are located in the 300-400 blocks of North Main Street. Shumway Softball Field Complex - 900 block of East Niobrara Street
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Municipal Swimming Pool - 540 East Tenth Street NOTE: The Chadron City Pool is closed for construction during 2016, use the Chadron State Park pool instead and come back in 2017 for the new and improved Chadorn Area Wellness and Aquatics Center which will feature slides and a splash pad, a zero-depth entry, sun deck and walking track Ridgeview Country Club - 16611 Highway 385 a nine-hole course located south of the city Chadron State Park - 15951 Hwy 385 offers a swimming pool, horseback trail rides, tennis and sand volleyball courts, craft center, snack bar, souvenirs, paddle boats on the picturesque lagoon, fishing, hiking, evening programs, picnic tables, shelters (which can be reserved), water, dump station, showers and modern restrooms. Please see Parks, Page 24
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Page 24 - Go, Do! 2016
Parks
from page 23
Crawford Crawford City Park and Rodeo Grounds - Main Street features playgrounds, tennis/basketball court, horseshoe pits, volleyball court, Frisbee golf course, airsoft field, Moto X Track & Camping Area, walking trail and a horseback riding trail, both leading to nearby Fort Robinson State Park Peabody Hale Park and Ball Fields Downtown Memorial Park Municipal Swimming Pool - 1005 First Street Legend Buttes Golf Course - 3440 Highway 20 a nine-hole course located on the west side of the city Gordon Wayland Park Winship Park Municipal Swimming Pool - 300 West Fourth Street Gordon Golf and Country Club - West Second Street nine-hole course on the west side of town The Mari Sandoz Sandhills Trail starts in Gordon
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Paddle Boats, Fishing, Archery Course, Frisbee Golf, Sled Run Camping • Cabin Lodging Trading Post Bike • Trails Hiking • Swimming Pool Park Pond • Horseback Riding Picnic Areas
Record file photo
The Chadron ball fields are a busy place during the summer and are a great place to enjoy an afternoon or evening.
Harrison City Park at Fourth and Frank streets features picnic shelters, restrooms, RV hookups and the city swimming pool Hay Springs Sunset Park, the largest of three city parks, is located at the intersection of Highways 87 and 20 features several wildlife sculptures carved with a chainsaw out of old tree stumps Centennial Park is located on First and Main streets in downtown Hay Springs features the Korean War Veteran Memorial constructed in 2002 Rushville City Park covers approximately 25 acres and has an indoor swimming pool, baseball field, football field, softball fields and picnic area. A lighted walking trail and playground afford safe family fun days and nights. Sand Ridge Golf Course - Third Street and Golf Course Lane nine-hole course on the west side of town Rushville Service & Sport Campground includes hook-ups for 7 camper/recreational vehicles with water, electricity and dump station.
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Metal detecting treasures tell priceless story ❖ By Julie Pfister
Record Ad Manager
Everyone loves a good treasure hunt! Even if the results are an old bottle cap or a square nail. Yes, it is all for the adventure of getting outside picking a spot and hunting! Metal detecting came about in the early 1920s and became a tool for explorers to find artifacts in the far reaches of the world like Antarctica or put to use in the war effort to find the underground mines. Back then it was cumbersome and heavy and required a lot of people to get the job done. In the 1950s, hobbyists turned it into a passion, using it for personal treasure hunts. Its design changed, making it more manageable and eliminating the need for earphones to hear the pings. A new age of treasure hunters emerged! Metal detectors range from $400 to $6,000 dollars but I have found that the median range detectors work great for the weekend hunt! Of course the metal detector will find metal of any kind but some of the more pricey units will tell you if it is gold, silver, tin, or iron. Some will even tell if your buried treasure is a coin! Yes, it decides from the composites of metal in the coin that it is a nickel, or dime. You might locate a button off of a garment that was worn in the 1800s or an axe head. I find that it is an education each time I go out to hunt. The items we find will tell a story and that, to me, is the most fascinating part of the hunt! For instance I was with my family on a warm spring day and we decided to go metal detecting on our farm. We all know the history of our farm through the ownership and title records but what happened before it was “our farm”? We have seen historical documents and pictures of an encampment on the banks of the Chadron Creek where our farm lives. I say lives because it is truly a place that has a life of its own. It lives and breathes history. We started near the creek. The detector went crazy Please see Metal Detecting, Page 26
Record photo by Julie Pfister
Rusty treasures found by metal detecting. Axe head, stove legs, tractor seat, wood oven door, top to milk can and an enamel kettle.
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Page 26 - Go, Do! 2016
Metal Detecting
from page 25
Record photo by Julie Pfister
More finds from a pocket knife to a token that Ford gave away with a purchase. Some of the buckshot caps date to the 1800s.
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in a spot that was so close to the creek it was hard to dig. But we worked from the side and finally got to the treasure. It was a leaf spring and a rotten piece of wood connected to it. Upon further investigation we found it was from a buggy back before we had cars. It was the suspension for the axles so they had a more comfortable ride. Now is this worth a million bucks? Well, no, but the historical value is priceless. Knowing that it has a story, and we can put that story together with the pieces that we find, is truly educational and fascinating. There are those who find real treasure with the metal detectors. I have heard stories of gold rings or even gold coins being found with these awkwardly fun detecting machines! We have found everything from an axe head to a buckshot cap (which dated back into the 1800s). You might think you are done when you find the item but really you are just beginning to tell the story of the item you found. There is a lot of research that you can do to date the item, and once you find the date you can research how it came to be where you found it. Sometimes it takes years to come to a conclusion but that is the fun of it. Places to metal detect in the northern panhandle of Nebraska can be hard to find, however, don’t feel bad about asking permission to hunt on private property. We rarely get a “no” and most of the time make a new friend. The rule of thumb is to make sure the property owner puts it in writing. He might have some rules for you to follow or he may not care what you dig up. But always remember to leave it as you found it. Fill in the divots. State lands are a little harder to hunt. If you want to hunt an historical site you must contact the state and get permission. It requires a permit but some new rules are in effect for our area beaches and campgrounds. Here are the state rules and regulations: 001.14C The possession and use of metal detectors is prohibited; Provided, possession of such a device is permitted subject to the following provisions: 001.14C1 Metal detectors may be used year around Please see Metal Detecting, Page 27
Go, Do! 2016 - Page 27
Metal Detecting at designated state recreation area swimming beaches posted as open to such activity. During the period May 22 through September 7, usage is restricted to the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m., daily. Metal detectors must remain below the vegetation line above the beach. 001.14C2 Metal detectors are limited to portable, hand-held devices only and digging equipment is limited to hand tools not exceeding twelve inches in length by four inches in width and sand scoops and sieves not over ten inches in diameter. 001.14C3 Operators of a metal detector shall wear or carry a litter apron or bag, and all litter found is to be deposited in an approved trash receptacle. 001.14C4 Operators may keep any nonidentifiable items with a nominal value of less than $25.00. Identifiable items, such as rings, watches, etc., and all other items of value exceeding $25.00 are to be deposited with the park superintendent. These provisions apply to all lost and found articles including those found without the aid of a metal detector. 001.14C5 All historical, archeological or paleontological items found are to be left undisturbed and their location reported to the park superintendent. 001.14C6 Use of metal detectors in State Parks and State Historical Parks is expressly prohibited except as herein provided. 001.14C7 Owners of lost items may use a metal detector in areas where their use is otherwise prohibited, only upon prior arrangement with the park superintendent. Here are some tips for your metal detecting adventure: Wear comfortable shoes as you will walk more than you ever thought you would. Wear gloves for digging. Take a tool to dig with, (I use an old kitchen knife) Take along a relic pouch to put your bootie in Dress for the weather. Bug spray is a must, too.
from page 26
Record photo by Julie Pfister
The prize! A 1920 Mercury dime discovered during a metal detecting outing.
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Page 28 - Go, Do! 2016
Markers offer glimpse at history ❖ By Kerri Rempp
Record Editor
The northwest corner of Nebraska is steeped in rich history, from the importance of the region to the Native Americans and the early settlers to the coming of the railroad, the region offers a vast array of knowledge waiting to be learned. Many of the biggest moments in the region’s history are commemorated with state historical markers. There are roughly four dozen in Dawes, Sioux and Sheridan counties, and a trip to a few of them can peak nearly anyone’s interest in learning more. A day trip along Highway 20, with stops at the historical markers along the way, provides residents and visitors with the opportunity to learn more about the area, and might be intriguing enough to encourage you to spend more time getting to know northwestern Nebraska. The entire City of Rushville is commemorated in a historical marker. The city’s roots date back to 1884 when it began as a settlement called Rush Valley two miles north of its current location. The railroad bypassed Rush Valley, however, and the city’s merchants were among the first to purchase lots from the railroad-controlled Pioneer Townsite Company, moving the town to Rushville’s present-day encamp-
Record photo by Kerri Rempp
This historical marker in Chadron tells the story of the construction of the first church in town.
ment. The historical marker for Camp Sheridan and the Spotted Tail Agency is located in Hay Springs, though the sites are a good 10 miles north of there. The Spotted Tail Agency was built in 1874 to supply Native Americans under the terms of the 1868 Fort Laramie Treat, and Camp Sheridan was built to protect the agency. Crazy Horse surrendered at Camp Sheridan, and his body was returned there for burial. The camp was abandoned in 1881. Continuing westward brings travelers to the Bordeaux Trading Post three miles east of Chadron. The post, now the site of the Museum of the Fur Trade, was established by James Bordeaux, who was active in
the fur trade. Chadron was the starting point for America’s longest horse race – the Chadron to Chicago Cowboy Race – in 1893. The marker dedicated to the race is located at Second and Bordeaux Streets in downtown Chadron. Also in Chadron and not far off of Highway 20 is the marker for the city’s first church at Chadron Avenue and Fourth Street. The church was dedicated in 1885. As you leave Chadron to the west, you’ll see a marker dedicated to the Fort Pierre-Fort Laramie Trail near the westernmost junction of Highways 20 and 385. The trail was instrumental in the early developPlease see Markers, Page 29
Markers ment of the region, with more than a quarter of a million buffalo robes and 27 tons of fur company trade goods hauled over the 300 mile stretch. Near Crawford is the marker denoting the region as “Butte Country.” The geographical formations served as landmarks for early inhabitants of the region, and Crow Butte was the site of a legendary battle between the Sioux and Crow Indians. Not far from the marker point is also the Treaty Tree, where in 1875, the Allison Commission first attempted to purchase the Black Hills from the Indians. The village of Crawford is another village that is commemorated in its entirety with an historical marker. The city sprang up as a tent settlement when the railroad entered the region. It eventually became a supply depot and entertainment center for Fort Robinson, and the fur trade and Black Hills gold rush also brought people to the region. Sioux Chief Red Cloud, desperado Doc Middleton and frontierswoman Calamity Jane all called Crawford home at some point. On the southwest corner of Coates and Fifth streets in Crawford is the 1891 school bell, a monument to the city’s commitment to education, according to the marker. Crawford’s first high school was constructed in 1890, and the bell installed the next year. When the building was demolished, citizens stole the bell in order to save it and
Go, Do! 2016 - Page 29
from page 28
is also the site where Crazy Horse was killed. Leaving Crawford takes drivers through Smiley Canyon and up in elevation to Harrison, at 4,876 feet above sea level. The village of Harrison was originally a railroad camp named Summit. The town was platted as Bowen, but changed to Harrison in 1888. The community hauled water five miles by wagon until it was able to dig a well. Not far west of Harrison is the Coffee Siding marker, dedicated to an important shipping point for Nebraska ranchers. The 1,023-foot siding abutted seven Record photo by Kerri Rempp cattle pens and The marker denotes the start to the famous Chadron to Chicago helped ranchers avoid Cowboy Race, America’s longest horse race. Wyoming’s higher freight costs. the monument was erected in 1979. There are many Sixteen of Dawes County’s hismore historical markers in the torical markers are in Fort Robinson region, all worth a trip for history State Park, and the park itself is well buffs. For a complete list, descripworth a visit of its own. But the tion and location visit http://www. markers attest to the fort’s impornebraskahistory.org/publish/marktance to the military, all the way ers/texts/ through World War II, and to U.S.Native American relations. The fort
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Northwest Nebraska hunting and fishing
Go, Do! 2016 - Page 31
Northwest Nebraska in all its seasons
Page 32 - Go, Do! 2016
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