Chadron Record - Go Do 2015

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A Journal of Outdoor Recreation in the Northwestern Panhandle

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Your Guide To Many Outdoor Activities: Fishing Hiking Biking Gardening Golfing Swimming Backpacking Mountain Biking

Page 2 - Spring 2015 - Go, Do!

Chadron State Park

Nine miles south of Chadron on U.S. 385 the 972-acre park sits at an elevation of nearly 5,000 feet with a landscape dominated by Ponderosa pines.

There are 22 two bedroom, housekeeping cabins available from mid-April to mid-November, plus a group camp/conference facility. Chadron boasts a campground with 70 pads all with 30-amp electrical hookups.

Excellent hike-bike trails lace the park and adjoining Forest Service lands. The park offers a swimming pool, horseback trail rides, tennis and sand volleyball courts, craft center, snack bar, souvenirs, paddle boats, fishing, hiking, evening programs, picnic tables, shelters (which can be reserved), water, dump station, showers and modern restrooms.

Attractions abound at Chadron State Park ❖ By Kerri Rempp

Record Editor Chadron State Park was established 94 years ago, and this year is new and improved after being hit by fire in 2012 and forced to close the much-loved pond.

The pond returns this summer after

extensive renovations and with it several water activities. Park Superintendent Gregg Galbraith noted that it took two full weeks to fill the pond to its new 13-foot depth. Prior to the renovations, the pond was lagging at four to six feet for an average depth, which wasn’t ideal for the fish or for any other activities on the water. Water in the pond was

leeching out faster than the structure could be filled, and the drain pipe structures were in disrepair as well.

“Those problems were all addressed,” Galbraith said. “It looks great.”

The new pond will allow for trout fishing – it was stocked in mid-April – Please see CSP, Page 4

Go, Do! - Spring 2015 - Page 3

We Have It Supplies for Camping, Fishing, RV Equipment and Supplies, Hardware of all Kinds

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Page 4 - Spring 2015 - Go, Do!

Chadron State Park offers plenty of beautiful scenery to take in.

CSP

and paddle boating will return after a two-year absence. The Fur Trade Days regatta races will be back at the state park again this July, and Galbraith hopes to implement canoe and kayak days on the pond in the future.

Of course, water activities are only part of the attraction of Chadron State Park. The cabins were given new windows and flooring last fall, and some of the duplexes were painted to make staying at the park more inviting. Wildlife is beginning to return to the area after the 2012 fires, and trees have been thinned and hiking/biking trails have been cleaned up.

Last year, the park hosted an obstacle course during Fur Trade Days, which takes place the second weekend in July, to replace the regatta; this year, Galbraith anticipates hosting both

from page 2

events.

Chadron State Park has traditionally shared its naturalist program with Fort Robinson but will have a staff member dedicated to CSP to enhance the program at the facility. Galbraith said visitors can check with the park for an exact itinerary, but the program will feature such things as nature hikes, fishing clinics, bird identification and jeep rides.

There is also a Frisbee golf course to enjoy, and Galbraith hopes to add an archery course. The park received a grant to purchase new 3D targets and Genesis bows. Chadron State Park also received a grant for a pollination garden, which will be planted this summer featuring plants, flowers and shrubs native to Nebraska.

Chadron State Park is also part of

the Great Park Pursuit this year, encouraging participants to visit up to 20 Game and Parks sites across the state before Sept. 18. Players follow clues that lead them to a Park Pursuit post. Once there, they have to take a pencil impression of the post to prove they were at the site. Prizes and entry into the drawings are based on the number of impressions collected, with the grand prize of an outdoor recreation package worth $1,500.

And if you’re looking to enjoy camping at a quieter spot away from the crowds, Chadron State Park oversees Walgren Lake near Hay Springs.

Galbraith has spent the last year making sure that site is mowed, painted and cleaned up; AmeriCorps volunteers pitched in and did work on the shelter and cleaned up trees.

Go, Do! - Spring 2015 - Page 5

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Fort Robinson State Park SUMMER FUN! 3 miles west of Crawford, Neb. on Hwy 20

308-665-2900

2015 EVENTS May 10 May 16 May 22 May 23 June 11 June 12-14 June 20 June 21 July 1-4 July 4

Oct. 9-Oct 18 Nov. 2

Nov. 22 Dec. 5

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 Intertribal Gathering Ride The Ridge Father’s Day Buffet Western and Wildlife Art Show Fort Robinson Fourth of July Celebration BBQ German Short Hair Dog Trails Tickets go on sale at 8:00 for the 21st Annual Historical Christmas Dinner Opening day of deer firearm season Longhorn & Buffalo Sale 21st 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

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ACCOMMODATIONS: Restaurant Tent Camping RV Camping Picnic Areas Barns 126 East Third Street, Chadron 308-432-2588 • Toll Free 1-877-220-3257 www.chadronfcu.org contact.us@chadronfcu.com

Page 6 - Spring 2015 - Go, Do!

HIKE TOADSTOOL The trail from Hudson-Meng to Toadstool Geologic Park is a majestic three-mile hike, showing off some of the best (if oddest) western Nebraska landscape. It was recently named one of the top-ten in the country in USA Today.

Hudson-Meng doesn’t open till Memorial Day, so we hiked it backwards in early April!

Record photo by Kevin Oleksy

The three-mile hike to Hudson-Meng from Toadstool Geologic Park starts with a gentle path (as seen below) before quickly changing into modestly challenging climbs and winding river bed trails. Here the intrepid author is seen with his backpacked baby, looking for adventure.

❖ By Kevin Oleksy

Record Sports Editor Ever wanted to hike on an alien landscape, examine fossils left by exotic creatures, and bask in the glow of the warm spring sun? Live in or traveling to western Nebraska? Your destination isn’t far off then. Head for the three-mile trail that connects the Hudson-Meng bison kill site and Toadstool Geologic Park.

In March of this year, USA Today released a list of its ten best American trails for a memorable spring hike.

You might be surprised to know that western Nebraska made that list.

The unordered list names the Hudson-Meng Bison Kill, located in the Oglala National Grassland by Crawford among the storied hikes found big-name destinations such as Grand Canyon National Park, San Isabel National Forest, and Zion National Park.

The newspaper based its list off of the work of Karen Berger, author of best-selling book, America’s Great Hiking Trails.

Its article states, “This surprising three-mile hike offers a nice mix of natural and human history, connecting the Hudson-Meng Museum & Archaeology Research Center, a pre-his-

toric bison hunting ground, with Toadstool Park, a haunting badland.”

Berger said, “You end up descending from the grasslands into this geologic maze. You’re hiking through sandstone cliffs and there are fossils all around you.”

My family set out earlier this month to take on the challenge of hiking three miles in rugged western Nebraska territory with a one-year-old baby strapped to our backs. Hudson-Meng doesn’t open until Memorial Day weekend, but there’s a way to hack this hike: do it backwards.

Starting at the Toadstool Park campsite, the park’s

short fossil loop hike branches off into the threemile beauty that Berger describes. This hike starts you off with the haunting badlands and an otherworldPlease see HIKE, Page 8

Go, Do! - Spring 2015 - Page 7

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Chadron State Park Events 2015

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Engine Diagnostics Engine Tune-Ups Exhaust Mufflers Lube, Oil, Filter Change Shocks, Struts Suspension

Saturday June 13 Chadron State Park 94th Anniversary Park Activities From 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Fun for the whole family!

Sunday July 12 Kiwanis Club Sponsored Event TBA

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Page 8 - Spring 2015 - Go, Do!

HIKE

ly feel—except for that windmill you can see off in the distance—and takes you ever upward to the rolling hillocky pasture that surrounds Hudson-Meng.

Signs clearly denote “Leaving Toadstool Park” and “Trail to Hudson Meng, 2.9 mi.” These are planted at the base of some sandstone cliffs which take some working to get to. So it’s a good point to decide if you’re up for going the distance or better off turning back.

This backwards approach may not have the same effect as Berger describes, but it sure was fun. The trail is kind of tough—especially if your toddler keeps removing her hat and you can’t exactly reach your arms around your back and plop it back on her head. This is why it’s important to bring a willing spouse, or a buddy, or if you don’t have a baby, you’ve probably got it made in the shade.

By the way, there isn’t much shade along this trek, bring plenty of water.

from Page 6

Getting there...

Toadstool Geologic Park From Crawford, Nebraska: 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 Toadstool is open year round, and offers tent or trailer camping,picnic tables,toilets, and parking.

A fee is charged for some activities.

Hudson-Meng Bison Kill Site & Visitor Center From Crawford, Nebraska: intersection of Highway 20 and Highway 2. Go north on Highway 2 and FS Rd #904 (4.2 miles). Turn left on FS Rd #904 to Sand Creek Rd (7.4 miles). Turn left on Sand Creek Rd.(FS Rd. #905) and continue 6.3 miles to Hudson-Meng.

Hudson-Meng is open 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Memorial Day weekend through October 1st. Entry Fee: Adults $5, Seniors $4.50, Kids (5-12) $3 (4 and under free)

Further information about Toadstool Park and the HudsonMeng site is available from the U.S. Forest Service online, its website is www.fs.usda.gov

Record photo by Kevin Oleksy

The forces of wind and water over the millennia created interesting striations in the clay and sandstone of the cliffs surround-

Record photo by Kevin Oleksy

Toadstool is home to many unique formations that appear alien such as these, which recall the Jawa sandcrawlers seen in Star Wars.

Go, Do! - Spring 2015 - Page 9

Motel 6 of Chadron

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Pool • Suites • Fridge Microwave • Wi-Fi Fax & Copy Service

Small Animals Small Ruemenants Equine and Pet Boarding

Crawford Companion Animal Clinic 424 2nd St Crawford, NE 69339 308-665-3949 Regina Rankin, DVM Mon-Fri 8:30am-5:00 pm

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Page 10 - Spring 2015 - Go, Do!

Catch that big one .....

The northern Panhandle offers plenty of places to cast a line and reel in your dinner. There region has a variety of public and private access lakes, rivers and creeks. Be sure to get landowner permission first before visiting a private access waterway.

For more information, the Nebraska Game and Parks features an interactive waterway map at http://outdoornebraska.ne.gov/gisapps/fishing.asp SIOUX COUNTY Niobrara River – brown and rainbow trout, private access, permission required; public access at Agate Fossil Beds Sowbelly Creek – brook and brown trout, private access only, permission required Gilbert Baker Pond – bluegill, largemouth bass, rainbow trout Hat Creek – brook and brown trout, private access only, permission required

DAWES COUNTY Box Butte Reservoir - 1,600 acres with Blue Catfish, Bluegill, Channel Catfish, Crappie, Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, Rock Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Walleye, Yellow Perch G&P COMMENTS: Subject to severe summer drawdown; primitive camping and electrical hook-ups are available, all boats allowed. Underwater spearfishing for gamefish starts June 1 G&P REGULATIONS: Northern pike - protected slot limit of 28 to 34 inches, daily bag limit of 10, only one of which may be more than 34 inches, possession limit of 20 Soldier Creek – brook, brown and rainbow trout – public access at Fort Rob and at Soldier Creek WMA Cherry Creek Pond – bluegill,

photo by Flickr:Billy Bob Bain // CC 2.0

Catch a brown trout, just like dad

brown and rainbow trout and largemouth bass Chadron Creek – brook and brown trout, public access at Chadron State Park Chadron State Park Pond – rainbow trout – no boats Bordeaux Creek – brook and brown trout; public access on Big Bordeaux Creek WMA and USFS lands SHERIDAN COUNTY Walgren Lake - 100 acres with Bluegill, Bullhead, Channel Catfish, Crappie, Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, Walleye, Yellow Perch G&P COMMENTS: Primitive

camping; boats restricted to 5 mph (no wake), wheelchair-accessible fishing pier Smith Lake - 290 acres with Bluegill, Bullhead, Crappie, Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, Walleye, Yellow Perch G&P COMMENTS: Primitive camping, boats restricted to 5 mph (no wake). Handicap accessible concrete boat ramp Isham Dam – bluegill, bullhead, channel catfish, largemouth bass, yellow perch, private access only White Clay Creek – brown trout, private access only Larabee Creek – brown and rainbow trout – private access only

Go, Do! - Spring 2015 - Page 11

Geocaching Put a new spin on a day in the Pine Ridge with a geo-caching adventure.

Use GPS to find a treasure while you enjoy a hike and the beautiful outdoors.

Connect to the Past at DAWES COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM!

Opening Day: May 23rd Come see “History In Action” Sept. 27th Open Mon-Sat 10am – 4pm, Sundays & Holidays 1pm – 4pm Will Open by Appointment Call 308-430-2700 308-432-2309 308-432-4925

341 Country Club Rd Chadron, NE 69337 308-432-4999

Page 12 - Spring 2015 - Go, Do!

Spend a day or two on horseback T he U.S. Forest Service in the northern Panhandle offers several horse camping areas for those who want to enjoy the outdoors with their horse on the trail. This information is also available on the U.S.F.S. website at http://www.fs.usda.gov/nebraska.

Roberts Tract Camping Area Roberts Tract Trailhead and campground provides horse corrals, rider ramp and stock water. (available midMay to mid-October). It is located near Roberts Loop Trail which ties into the Pine Ridge Trail in the Pine Ridge National Recreation Area. At one time this area was a homestead site.

Picnic tables, a vault toilet and fire rings are provided, but no grates or grills. Garbage service is provided from mid-May through mid-November.

No drinking water is available.

Camping fee is $8 per vehicle from mid-May through mid-November.

Roberts Tract Trailhead provides non-motorized travel by mountain biking, hiking or horseback riding to the following: * Spotted Tail Loop is approximately 3 miles * Coffee Mill Trailhead is approxi-

Courtesy photo

mately 7.5 miles * East Ash Trailhead is approximately 9.5 miles Soldier Creek Camping Area

The Soldier Creek Campground is adjacent to the Nebraska National Forests & Grasslands Soldier Creek Wilderness and Ft. Robinson State Park. The 7,794 acre Soldier Creek Wilderness was used in conjunction with Fort Robinson Military

Reservation as a wood reserve, horse and mule pasture. In 1989, a large fire burned in this area. A few snags remain so be aware of falling hazards.

Trailhead facilities are located in the campground, which is adjacent to the wilderness boundary and include primitive campsites, several picnic tables, a handpump well with pottable water, vault toilets, garbage cans and a large 15-paddock corral system. Livestock feed is not available and stock water must be hauled to the corral from nearby creeks or handpump during the fee period.

Fire rings only, no grates or grills.

Mid-November through mid-May, no pottable water or garbage services are available, so please pack it in and pack it out. Feel free to call ahead for exact dates at (308) 432-0300.

Soldier Creek Wilderness is nonmotorized and only open to horseback riding and hiking. The Wilderness can be accessed from 3 Trailheads in the campground including: * Boots & Saddle Trail is approximately 7 miles, accessed from the North Fork Trailhead, and ties into the Trooper Trail. * Trooper Trail Loop is approximately 10.5 miles access from Middle and South Fork Trailheads

Warbonnet gives glimpse of history

The Warbonnet Battlefield Monument is an interpretive area established by the U.S. Forest Service.

The battlefield is a location of historical importance in the conflict of the late 1800s.

Parking is available with a

short walk to both the Warbonnet Battlefield Monument and the Cody Yellowhair Monument. The site is open year-round and is free to visit. There are no amenities available.

Directions From Hot Springs, SD

Highway 71 south to intersection of Toadstool Road..

37 miles South to Hat Creek Road... 1 mile Hat Creek Road south and west to Montrose.. 9 miles then to the hill north to Warbonnet Battlefield Monument From Crawford, NE Crawford to

intersection of Highway 20 and Highway 2, north to Highway 2 and Toadstool Road.. 4.2 miles Toadstool Road to Orella Road ..12.4 miles Orella Road to Montrose..11 miles then to the hill north to Warbonnet Battlefield Monument.

Go, Do! - Spring 2015 - Page 13 Clip-N-Save

Chadron Area Calendar of Events 2015 May 1 9 9 10 10 16 16 22-24 23 25 30-6

2015 Season Opening at High Plains Homestead Chadron State College Graduation Day Chadron High School Graduation Mother’s Day Dinner at High Plains Homestead Mother’s Day Buffet at Fort Robinson Restaurant Free Park Entry and Fish Day at Chadron State Park and Fort Robinson State Park Community-Wide Garage Sale in Chadron sponsored by The Chadron Record Chadron State College Don Beebe Golf Classic Tournament Opening Day of Summer Activities at Chadron State Park and Fort Robinson State Park Memorial Day Cookout at High Plains Homestead 2015 Tractor Rally Across Nebraska, beginning in Harrison and ending in Crofton

June 6 Electronics Recycling sponsored by Keep Chadron Beautiful 6 Crawford Mud Racing, Crawford City Park, Crawford NE 6-7 Crawford Community Wide Garage Sale 11-13 4-H Horse Camp and Fort Robinson State Park 12-14 Intertribal Gathering & Powow, Fort Robinson State Park 20 Ride The Ridge 20 Anniversary of Chadron State Park.

Saturdays Farmers Market, Dawes County Courthouse Lawn, 8-noon, sponsored by the Chadron Chamber of Commerce

July

Spring turkey hunting is a popular activity in the Pine Ridge.

1-4 Western & Wildlife Art Show - Fort Robinson Veterinary Hospital 2 Old West Trail Rodeo Junior Fun Day, Crawford NE 3-4 Old West Trail PRCA Rodeo, Crawford NE 4 Happy Hustlers 4th of July Flag Raising 4 Crawford Mud Racing, Crawford City Park, Crawford NE 10-12 Chadron Fur Trade Days 17-18 Classics in the Park Car Show 23-29 Cal Ripken Baseball Tournament 25-26 Cowgirl Swank Classic Women’s Ranch Rodeo 25 Peabody Hale Fiddle Contest & Family Festival, Crawford NE Saturdays Farmer’s Market, Dawes County Courthouse Lawn, 8-noon, sponsored by the Chadron Chamber of Commerce

August 31-7 Dawes County Fair 1 Crawford Mud Racing, Crawford City Park, Crawford NE 3-9 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally 7-0 Closing performances for Post Playhouse, Fort Robinson 22 Cookout for a Cause sponsored by Helen’s Restaurant Saturdays Farmer’s Market, Dawes County Courthouse Lawn, 8-noon, sponsored by the Chadron Chamber of Commerce

September 4-7 5 7 7

Northwest Nebraska Rock Swap, Crawford City Park, Crawford NE Crawford Mud Racing, Crawford City Park, Crawford NE Annual Chicken and Sweet Corn Feed at High Plains Homestead Labor Day Celebration / Moon of the Changing Leaves 5K Run/walk at HudsonMeng, 18-20 Chadron State College Rodeo 27 History in Action Day at the Dawes County Historical Museum Saturdays Farmers Market, Dawes County Courthouse Lawn, 8-noon. Contact: 308-432-4401

www.chadron.com

Record photo by Julie Pfister

706 W 3rd St, Chadron, NE 69337 (308) 432-4401

Page 14 - Spring 2015 - Go, Do!

Fort Robinson draws hundreds of thousands of visitors ❖ By Game and Parks

Western Nebraska’s premier state park, Fort Robinson, west of Crawford, has it all — with more than 22,000 acres of exquisite Pine Ridge scenery, compelling old west history, exceptional lodging, loads of fun-time activities, scenic camping and the park’s own buffalo and longhorn herds.

This historic outpost served from the days of the Indian Wars until after World War II. This was the site of the 1879 Cheyenne Outbreak and the death of famed Sioux Chief Crazy Horse.

Over the years, the fort served the Red Cloud Indian Agency, as a cavalry remount station, K-9 dog training center, POW camp and beef research station.

The State Historical Society operates a museum and many restored or

reconstructed exhibit buildings to interpret the Fort’s history.

Visit the new exhibit The Clash of the Mammoths at the Trailside Museum of Natural History. A fossil find unlike any other in the world! The University of Nebraska operates the Trailside Museum which interprets the geology and natural history of the region.

Attractions There are many ways to spend a day at the fort. First on the agenda should be a ride on the horse drawn tour to get acquainted with this unique park.

Enjoy a refreshing Pine Ridge morning on horseback, an open-air Jeep ride among the buttes, or one of the popular nature tours aboard the Fort Robinson Express. When the day warms up, head for the indoor Lindeken Pool, complete with outdoor wading pool and sun deck.

Fort Robinson Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner daily during the summer season. The park can also cater for group functions from midApril to mid-November. Snacks are available at the Sutler’s Store in the Activities Center.

The Post Playhouse at Fort Robinson recently celebrated its 40th Anniversary Season. To view a performance schedule and purchase tickets, please click here.

Overnight Accomodations Camping Facilities: 100 camping pads with electrical hookups* 25 non-pad sites without electricity *20/30/50-amp. 1-year advance reservable campsites Lodging Facilities: 35 cabins that may be reserved. 22 lodge rooms Fort Robinson State Park’s shady campground offers electrical hookup Please see Fort Rob, Page 15

Great Steaks, Hamburgers, Fries & Chicken Fries!

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Mon. 4 p.m.-1 a.m. • Tue.-Fri. 11 a.m.-1 a.m.

HOURS Sat. 8 a.m.-1 a.m. • Sun. 8 a.m.-8 p.m.

Go, Do! - Spring 2015 - Page 15

Fort Rob

from Page 14

sites plus primitive sites. Conveniently located are modern restrooms, showers, water, dump station, picnic tables and shelters. Fort Robinson offers a nice campground for the horse lovers. Put your horse up for the night in one of the newly remodeled horse barns. With many miles of trails to ride through the beautiful Pine Ridge, this makes a great place to camp and enjoy the outdoors.

Fort Robinson campground offers group camping with equestrian facilities. The campground is open year round with electricity. Showers and water will be shut down during the winter months.

All campers must register.

Reservations are accepted for cabins, lodgerooms, horse stalls and campsites.

Reservations are taken for 50% of the modern camping at Red Cloud and Soldier Creek campgrounds.

Reservations are taken up to 1 year in advance of arrival day. Year to date

The 1905 post headquarters at Fort Robinson State Park

reservations begin at 9 a.m. CT, and 8 a.m. MT by phone, in person or over the Internet.

Fort Robinson State Park visitors can choose lodging from rooms in the 1909 enlisted men’s quarters or “cabins” ranging from sleep 2 to 20 in the former officers quarters that date from 1874 to 1909. All cabins have kitchens, baths and bedrooms. Larger cabins also feature living rooms. Cabins are furnished with blankets, towels, stoves, refrigerators, silverware and cooking

West Hills Inn

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utensils. Lodging is available from midApril through mid-November.

Lodge rooms have double or twin bed rooms; Cabins & Adobes sleep 6 to 12 people; Brick officers Quarters sleep 14 to 20 people; Comanche Hall can handle family reunions as it sleeps up to 60 people and has a complete kitchen. Housekeeping cabins are supplied with linens, basic cooking utensils, dishes and silverware. You may also reserve a picnic shelter for your group or family reunion. Group and meeting facilities include Dodd Hall, Buffalo Soldier Barracks, the Mare Barn Annex and Buffalo Barracks Squad. Dodd Hall and the Buffalo Soldier Barracks can seat up to 200 people and the mare Barn Annex seats up to 125 people.

Buffalo Barracks Squad Meeting Room seats 120 people and includes a small kitchen. Don’t forget to ask about having the Fort Robinson Restaurant cater your next group or meeting event.

• Quality rooms • Pool • Conference Center • Continental Breakfast • FREE Wi-Fi

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Page 16 - Spring 2015 - Go, Do!

Picnicking areas in the Pine Ridge

The U.S. Forest Service provides picnic areas perfect for a day trip or for a longer camping excursion.

Day Hiking Areas 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

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.

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.

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

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 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.

Record photo by Kevin Oleksy

Toadstool Geologic Park and Campground.

Go, Do! - Spring 2015 - Page 17

Fossil Freeway denotes area’s importance Several area sites offer fossil history ❖ By Fossil Freeway

Toadstool Park Toadstool Geologic Park gets its name from the bulky sandstone blocks balanced on seemingly impossibly narrow pedestals of sediment seen throughout the area.

The sandstone blocks, many of which still bear tracks of extinct animals, are remnants from a river that flowed through the area over 30 million years ago, and subsequent weathering has broken the sandstone down into blocks. The rocks giving Toadstool its moonscape appearance were deposited by wind and streams between 45-26 million years ago. Volcanic ash from the west coast being driven by the prevailing winds also came to rest in northwest Nebraska. The alternating reddish and greenish bands of color apparent in the area are due to soil development during the wet or dry seasons when the ash was deposited. Red-tinged layers formed during wet seasons when iron in the ash oxidized or “rusted,” while the greenish layers indicate soil formation during dry seasons.

This volcanic ash accumulating also explains why the flora and fauna are so

precisely fossilized. Silica minerals dissolved from the ash filled the pore spaces in the skeletons to strengthen the bone, allowing it withstand weathering.

Extinct animals preserved at Toadstool Geologic Park include: tortoises, rhinos, birds (ducks, shorebirds, herons) , saber toothed cats, early dogs, large pig-like animals, oreodonts (sheep like), small tusked deer, early 3 toed horses, early camels, brontotheres (8 ft tall rhino-like), bats, snakes, rodents, and lizards–just to name a few. During this time, grasses were not much established in the area, so the herbivores were browsers. The climate nearly 45 million years ago appears to have been humid subtropical, but by 26 million years ago the climate was very dry.

If you enjoy natural wonders and have a taste for living history preserved in rock, hike Toadstool Geologic Park.

The site includes a camping and picnic area.

Hudson Meng The Pine Ridge of Nebraska holds one of the most important Paleoindian (the first documented Americans) archaeological sites yet discovered anywhere on the Great Plains, the HudsonMeng site, located in a small sheltered

valley that served as an occasional home to several of the earliest cultures to live in this part of North America between about 10,200 and 11,200 years ago. The natural resources of the valley—a flowing spring, wooded groves, and vast surrounding grasslands— attracted both herds of bison and groups of hunter-gatherers to the place for thousands of years. And the ways that people and bison interacted at the site has created an archaeological mystery about how people lived after the Ice Age. Discovered in 1954 during the construction of a stockpond, the site was originally excavated in the 1970’s and interpreted as the largest Paleoindianage bison kill site ever discovered, with as many as 600 animals having been taken in one hunt. Subsequent research during the 1990’s led to differing interpretations as archaeologists then suggested that the bison died from multiple events. Some theorized that the main portion of the bonebed may not represent a hunting site at all but that the animals may have died during a natural event such as a raging prairie grass fire. Current researchers at the site, through the use of modern scientific techniques, are still attempting to solve the mystery!

Please see Fossil, Page 18

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Page 18 - Spring 2015 - Go, Do!

Fossil A visit to the Hudson-Meng Education and Research Center will allow you to view a contemporary archaeological excavation in progress. In 1997, a climate controlled enclosure was completed over the central portion of the bonebed, and the site is open to the public each summer from Memorial Day to Labor Day. When you visit, you’ll find interpretive displays, guided tours, and interactive science activities to help you understand why this is such an important discovery, and you are even encouraged to develop your own theories about what might have happened to the bison.

The site is located in Nebraska’s Oglala National Grassland administered by the Nebraska National Forest, on the shoulder of the picturesque Pine Ridge, overlooking the Black Hills of South Dakota.

As an added bonus, it’s only a few miles (or a short hike) to the moonscape of Toadstool Geologic Park.

Fort Robinson - Trailside Museum Wonder as you view the skeletal remains of two huge mammoths lying as they have since the Ice Age - tragically locked together in combat! More than 10,000 years ago, a pair of “testosteronecrazed” bull mammoths crossed paths on the high plains in what would one day be

from page 17

western Nebraska. The two Columbian mammoths battled for mating rights.

However, fate thwarted desire when their tusks permanently intertwined. After an epic struggle the mammoths fell and tragically perished. Preserved under layers of sediment cascading off the Little Badland formations, the dueling titans were discovered in the summer of 1962 and can now be seen as they were found during that remarkable excavation. Also witness the dramatic fight depicted in a huge, aweinspiring mural, and explore a wide variety of other rare Nebraska fossils such as an ancient rhino, giant tortoise, mosasaur skull, full-standing mammoth, and more!

Shop for treasures for the entire family in our museum store and gallery. Find books, posters, toys, jewelry, souvenirs, Native American arts & crafts, and more!

Come visit us for an experience you will never forget. This is one-of-a-kind fossil discovery not found anywhere else in the world!

Agate Fossil Beds Under a sky, hazy with volcanic ash, strange animals once roamed the prairie now called Western Nebraska. Details of their intriguing story can be found in a dramatic Visitor Center at Agate Fossil Beds National Monument. Here, you can

Fossil Freeway From south to north: Take Highway 71 from Kimball to Scottsbluff At Scottsbluff take Highway 26 to Highway 29 and go north to Harrison At Harrison, take Highway 20 over to Crawford and then north on Highway 71 to the South Dakota border Continues on Highway 71/79 to Hot Springs and then to Rapid City Sites of interest: Wildcat Hills SRA Scottsbluff National Monument Agate Fossil Beds Trailside Museum at Fort Rob Hudson-Meng

meet the small rhinoceros of its day, the Menoceras, which died in abundance, creating a huge fossil bonebed famous since its discovery in the early 1900’s. Other animals attracted to the death scene were even more bizarre, such as the huge hoglike Dinohyus, larger than a buffalo, which dominated all life forms with its fearsome teeth and angular skull. The long-necked Moropus, on the other hand, combined features of many different contemporary animals from horse to bear to sloth.

Another intriguing animal, the land dwelling beaver, Palaeocastor, dug perfect spiral burrows which have likewise become fossilized over time, provoking the name “Devil’s Corkscrews.”

The animals found at Agate Fossil Beds National Monument came from some 19-21 million years ago during a longer time period described by scientists as the early Miocene Epoch (5-23 million years ago) when the land mass was drying out and abundant animals responded to a new food source as grasslands replaced forest and jungle. Some of these creatures, though slightly different anatomically, resemble those of today. Others came in peculiar shapes and sizes, now long extinct, and truly reflect the monsters of yesteryear, whether real or imagined.

These are the animals that replaced the dinosaurs.

The Visitor Center features an informative film and various displays, along with a life-size diorama that depicts the ancient animals and the theories concerning their existence. Outside, trails lead to the fossil areas, with a few of the corkscrew burrows exposed, while most fossils still remain hidden in the ground. The Visitor Center also features the story of the fossil discoverer, rancher James Cook, an interesting man whose friendship with High Plains tribes of Native Americans unfolds through a unique collection of American Indian artifacts in the Cook Gallery.

Go, Do! - Spring 2015 - Page 19

Nebraska National Forest a popular attraction â?– By U.S. Forest Service

The Pine Ridge of the northern Nebraska Panhandle provides thousands of acres of outdoor playground for residents and visitors alike. This information, also found at their website, serves as a guide to the various activities available.

NEBRASKA NATIONAL FOREST

Camping Overnight camping in developed sites is on a first-come, first-served basis. Campfires are allowed unless restrictions are posted.

Red Cloud Campground site features 13 sites with picnic tables and fire grates, and a vault toilet. Overnight camping — $5 fee charged from mid-May to mid-November, no charge for day use, open year-round. How to Get There Travel eight miles south of Chadron on U.S. Highway 385.

Backcountry or primitive camping (no facilities) is allowed anywhere on the National Forest. Practicing Leave No Trace principles ensures that the next person to visit will have the same sense of discovery as those who came before. The seven principles are: Plan ahead and prepare, Camp and travel on durable surfaces, Dispose of waste properly, Leave what you find, Minimize campfire impacts, Respect wildlife, Be considerate of other visitors.

Hiking and Biking Approximately 80 miles of marked trails make up the Pine Ridge Trail system. The easy-to-follow trails accommodate hikers, horseback riders, and mountain bikers. This trail system consists of several trailheads: East Ash, West Ash, Coffee Mill, Soldier Creek, Spotted Tail, Strong Canyon, Roberts, and Outrider Trailheads. Trail and facility locations are available on the (2002) recreation map featuring the Pine Ridge Ranger District and Oglala National Grassland.

Horse Riding and Camping Outrider Trailhead and Roberts Tract Trailhead & Campground are popular access points to the Nebraska National Forest. Outrider Trailhead has corrals and a fully accessible rider ramp. Roberts Tract Trailhead consists of Please see Forest, Page 20

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Forest

horse corrals, a fully accessible rider ramp, modern vault toilet, hand water pump, camp sites, and picnic tables.

The Nebraska National Forest requires all feed and forage transported or used on the national forest or national grasslands to be certified free of noxious weeds and weed seeds. For more information, call 308-432-0300.

Picnic Areas There are some unique picnicing sites in the Pine Ridge Ranger District.

There is no fee for day use.

Off Highway Vehicle Travel The Pine Ridge Ranger District of the Nebraska National Forest is in the process of developing a travel management plan where motorized travel will be limited to designated routes. Until then, the Pine Ridge Ranger District of the Nebraska National Forest is open unless designated closed. To reduce soil erosion, use existing roads as much as possible. Be sure your OHV is equipped with spark arrestors and other safety features. Contact the ranger district office at 308-432-0300 for area closures or closure due to fire danger.

Special Places Pine Ridge National Recreation Area - This 6,600-acre area is designed to provide a primitive/semi-primitive recreational opportunity in a natural environment and is managed for nonmotorized recreation.

The primary access point is from Roberts Trailhead. It consists of horse corrals, a fully accessible rider ramp, modern vault toilet, hand water pump, and picnic tables. A $8 fee is charged for camping at Roberts Trailhead from mid-May to mid-November; no charge for day use, open year round. Hiking, horses, and mountain bikes are allowed.

The 3 mile Loop Trail south from the trailhead connects to the Pine Ridge

from page 19

Season Dates and Application Periods for 2015 nonmigratory game hunting seasons Hunting Season Dates *

Application/Purchase Periods

Turkey, spring archery Turkey, spring youth archery Turkey, spring youth shotgun Turkey, spring shotgun

Spring Turkey: Jan. 12-Close of Season – Hunters may purchase as many as three spring permits.

Fall Turkey: Aug. 10-Close of Season – Hunters may purchase as many as two fall permits.

Deer June 8-26 – Residents and nonresidents may apply for one permit in any draw unit.

July 13-Close of Season – Residents, nonresidents and eligible landowners may purchase remaining permits.

Antelope June 8-26 – Residents and eligible landowners may apply for one buck or either-sex permit in available units.

July 13-Close of Season – Residents, nonresidents and eligible landowners may purchase remaining permits.

Elk May 18-June 5 – Eligible landowners may apply for one permit.

June 8-26 – Residents may apply for one permit.

July 13-Close of Season – Residents and eligible landowners may purchase remaining permits.

Bighorn Sheep April 20-Aug. 7 – Residents may apply for one lottery permit.

Multispecies Lottery Permits April 20-July 3 – apply for Super Tag and Combo permits

March 25-May 31 March 25-May 31 April 11-May 31 April 18-May 31

Turkey, fall youth, archery, shotgun Sept. 15-Jan. 31,2016

Deer, archery Sept. 1-Dec. 31 Deer, November firearm Nov. 14-22 Deer, muzzleloader Dec. 1-31 Elk, bull archery Sept. 15-Oct. 25 Elk, bull firearm Sept. 26-Oct. 25 Elk, cow, private land Aug. 15-Oct. 25, Dec. 1-31 Elk, cow, public land Sept. 26-Oct. 25, Dec. 1-31 Antelope, archery Aug. 20-Dec. 31 Antelope, muzzleloader Sept. 19-Oct. 4 Antelope, firearm Oct. 10-25 Bighorn Sheep Dec. 1-22 Squirrel Aug. 1-Jan. 31, 2016 Cottontail and jackrabbit Sept. 1-Feb. 29, 2016 Grouse Sept. 1-Jan. 31, 2016 Pheasant, quail and partridge Oct. 31-Jan. 31, 2016 * Big game season dates finalized in March Waterfowl seasons set in August

National Recreation Area, which traverses east-west through the Pine Ridge.

How to Get There - Roberts Trailhead campground is located eight miles west of Chadron on U.S. Highway 20 and seven miles south on Eleson Road, then 1 1/2 miles east on Bethel Road.

OGLALA NATIONAL GRASSLAND Camping Backcountry or primitive camping is allowed anywhere on the National Forest and National Grasslands in Nebraska. Campfires are allowed unless restricted due to high fire danger.

Toadstool Park is noted for unusual geologic formations and scientifically valuable fossil deposits; an interpretive kiosk at the campground explains and illustrates the area geology. The campground consists of 6 sites with picnic tables and fire grates, and fully accessible modern vault toilets. A $3 per vehicle day use fee or $5 per night camping

Applications accepted on first day at 1 p.m. Central Time

fee is charged from mid-May through mid-November.

How to Get There: Travel four miles north of Crawford on State Highway 2 and 71, then 15 miles northwest on Toadstool Road.

Hiking Toadstool Park is noted for unusual geologic formations and scientifically valuable fossil deposits; an interpretive kiosk at the campground explains and illustrates the area geology. A one-mile loop trail from the picnic area highlights many examples of eroded clay/sandstone formations. The 1-mile Self-guided Interpretive Loop Trail (first .3 miles accessible) accesses the 3 mile Bison Trail to Hudson Meng Bison Bonebed. Pick up an interpretive brochure at the trailhead to learn about the area’s fascinating geology. A reconstructed sod house provides a look into the past when homesteaders on the

Please see Forest, Page 21

Go, Do! - Spring 2015 - Page 21

Forest

from page 20

prairies used the only abundant building material available. A $3 per vehicle day use fee is charged from mid-May through mid-November.

Horse Riding While there are no developed horse facilities on the National Grassland, the wide-open spaces are especially well suited for horseback travel. Please leave the numerous gates as you find them to assure that livestock grazing systems work as they are designed. Certified weed-free feed for recreational stock is required on the National Grassland.

Call the Pine Ridge Ranger District at 308-432-0300 for local providers. Be sure to bring plenty of water for both you and your horse.

Hunting: Big Game, Upland Game, Varmint Hunting All areas are open for public hunting and fishing under state rules and regula-

tions. Shooting a firearm within 150 yards of a developed recreation site or across a forest road is prohibited (36 CFR 261.10.d.1). Big Game archery and firearm opportunities include white-tailed and mule deer, and antelope. See Nebraska Game and Parks for license information.

Rockhounding The Oglala National Grassland and surrounding area is a virtual paradise for those interested in rocks, minerals, gemstones and fossils. Those who collect these treasures are often called rockhounds. Rockhounding is allowed anywhere on the National Grasslands, with some restrictions. Collecting on private land requires permission from the owner. A permit is required for the collection of vertebrate paleontological specimens, including their trace fossils (tracks) on any federal lands. These permits are issued only for scientific

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Restrictions associated with rockhounding are as follows: collection of any objects for commercial purposes is prohibited; trading and bartering are considered commercial activities.

USDA, Forest Service policy and guidance in 36 CFR 261.9 states “The following are prohibited: digging in, excavating, disturbing, injuring, destroying, or in any way damaging any prehistoric, historic or archeological objects.”

Special Places Soldier Creek Wilderness Area is 7,794 acres. Facilities at the trailhead and campground include a graveled parking area, hand water pump, modern accessible vault toilets, fire grates, and picnic tables. A well-developed trail sys-

Please see Forest, Page 22 68th Annual

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Page 22 - Spring 2015 - Go, Do!

NIGHT SKY: A hidden feature of any Panhandle outing

area has to offer year-round without requirement for a Record Sports Editor park entry, or a campsite fee, the night sky is accessible to all. hen you’re out Often enough I’ve pull off hiking, biking, or riding the to the side of a pitch black myriad trails that Nebraska’s country road when driving at northern Panhandle has to night, just to gaze up and offer, chances are you’re take in all that majesty for a liable to spend the night few minutes. where you are, or that you The area offers some of might just be lucky enough the better stargazing I’ve to live in this vast expanse of seen in my life, and it’s easy beautiful country. enough to get yourself atop If you’re an in-towner like a hill, a ways away from a myself, or your yard has a city or town, and just watch. bright enough light, you Meteor showers are great Record photo by Kevin Oleksy might just be missing one of too.

A portion of the Milky Way behind the trees, photographed from Chadron the unnoticed features this Please see STARS, Page 23 State Park earlier this year. ❖ By Kevin Oleksy

W

Forest

tem of 17 miles in and adjacent to the Soldier Creek Wilderness allows hikers and horseback riders a variety of loop trail choices. The Wilderness is closed to mountain bikes and motorized vehicles. A $8 fee is charged for camping at the Trailhead from midMay to mid-November, no charge for day use.

How to Get There The campground and trailhead are 2 1/2 miles west of Crawford on U.S. Highway 20 to Fort Robinson, then north on Soldier Creek Road for six miles

from page 21

Courtesy photo

Rockhounding is an easy pastime for all ages. The Oglala National Grassland and surrounding area is a virtual paradise for those interested in rocks, minerals, gemstones and fossils.

Go, Do! - Spring 2015 - Page 23

STARS

from Page 22

Record photo by Kevin Oleksy

A wild UFO appears? No it’s just a pickup truck driving past our star photo party site at Chadron State Park earlier this year.

The Lyrids, which were active from April 16-25 this year, just passed us by. The American Meteor Society (www.amsmeteors.org) says, “The Lyrids are a medium strength shower that usually produces good rates for three nights centered on the maximum. These meteors also usually lack persistent trains but can produce fireballs.”

Coming up this summer are the Perseids; active from July 13 to August 26. The shower is the most popular one since it peaks during pleasantly warm August nights.

According to AMS, “They reach a strong maximum on August 12 or 13, depending

on the year. Normal rates seen from rural locations range from 50-75 shower members per hour at maximum. The Persesids are particles released from comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle during its numerous returns to the inner solar system. They are called Perseids since the radiant (the area of the sky where the meteors seem to originate) is located near the prominent constellation of Perseus the hero when at maximum activity.”

Whether you take my favored route of heading out to Chadron State Park, or just get out of town somewhere in the Panhandle, the stars await you most nights of the year.

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Page 24 - Spring 2015 - Go, Do!

STARS! The boundless sky is a free night-time feature of any Panhandle outdoor activity. Whether you’re staying the night or just passing through, the area’s general lack of bright lights and big cities makes stargazing a no brainer when camping, hiking, biking, or riding into the evening hours.

Bring a snack, a camera, or just a blanket to lay on and gaze into the infinite.

Please see story on Page 22

Record photo by Kevin Oleksy

The Milky Way as seen from Chadron State Park earlier this year.

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