Discover Us 2013

RECREATION || ATTRACTIONS || FESTIVALS A

STAR-HERALD PUBLICATION

DISCOVER US 3 BANNER COUNTY

Box Butte Reser voir, launching from an upgraded ramp. The lake’s vast expanse allows room for a variety of water sports. A children’s swimming area is marked and protected by buoys for safety.

Also, primitive camping areas and picnic spots dot the shores of the lake. Campers must register at a box located near the reservoir’s entrance.

Created by the Works Projects Administration of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal in 1940 and 1941, the Niobrara River dam plays to thousands of boaters, fishermen and swimmers each year.

Box Butte Reservoir is a Nebraska State Recreation Area managed by the Game and Parks Commission and park permits are required for entr y. The permits may be obtained at one of several Hemingford businesses. Reservations are not required.

BANNER COUNTY MUSEUM HARRISBURG — A 12-building complex, located at 200 N. Pennsylvania, stores hundreds of articles of times gone by. The Banner County Museum complex includes a machine shed that houses hundreds of old tools, an immense 65 horse power Case steam engine and a vast collection of farm machinery and implements.

A sod house replica constructed in 1985 out of Banner County sod, a genuine 1888 log house from William C. Spahr’s homestead, an original 1880 pioneer church, a log schoolhouse from 1880 that was used as a chicken coop before being donated to the museum, a 1930s service station, a 1910 barn, a replica of an early drug store and a late 1800s bank in its original location, are all structures located on the museum grounds. Artifacts from the early CARHENGE 1900s are on display at the museum’s general ALLIANCE — The Stone Age meets the store, which is located in a rock building. All of the structures on the museum grounds are Industrial Revolution just a few miles north of Alliance, where automobiles from the 1950s originally from Banner County.

Copies of all the original Banner County and 1960s have been arranged into a design newspapers are also housed in the museum on microfilm, allowing for extensive genealogy research.

The annual Historical Day/Museum Open House is the second Saturday in June each year. The museum is open every Sunday from 2 to 5 p.m. Memorial Day through Labor Day, or year-round by appointment. Admission is free. Information: 308-436-7228, bannercountyhistoricalsociety@yahoo.com or visit its website at www.bannercountyhistoricalsociety.com.

BOX BUTTE BOX BUTTE RESERVOIR STATE RECREATION AREA HEMINGFORD — Camping and water recreation adventures await visitors to this 1,600-acre reservoir on the Niobrara River.

Located 91/2 miles north of Hemingford, just south of the majestic Pine Ridge, the 7-mile long Box Butte Reservoir offers a scene of aquatic recreation in the summertime and serves as one of the area’s more popular ice fisheries in the winter.

Anglers can find walleye, yellow perch, bluegill, channel catfish, northern pike, largemouth and smallmouth bass and crappie in the waters of the reservoir. A fish cleaning station is also on-site for the successful fisherman.

In the summertime, sailboats, powerboats and personal watercraft cruise the waters of

4 DISCOVER US replicating the ring of stones erected in southern England thousands of years before the birth of Christ.

Buried trunk-first, the bodies of the cars used in the structure rise between 15 and 18 feet above ground, some straight into the air, others at an angle, faithful to the appearance of Stonehenge. For the sake of uniformity, all the cars used have been painted a primer gray.

Former Alliance resident Jim Reinders envisioned Carhenge and ultimately created it on the farm where he once lived. The site was dedicated on the summer solstice in 1987. The major stones of the Stonehenge creation are recreated with cars of approximately the same dimensions, following the solar orientation of the British stone circle.

The 10-acre Carhenge site has grown to include other forms of car art, including sculptures of animals both modern and prehistoric, all crafted from automobile parts. For those inclined to prolong their visit, picnic tables and plenty of parking are available. Carhenge is open all year with no admission fee. It is handicap accessible and group tours are available.

The Pitstop visitor center is also open during

the summer months beginning in May. A variety of Carhenge souvenirs and refreshments are available to help support the site.

Information: 308-760-1837 or visit website at www.carhenge.com.

DOBBY’S FRONTIER TOWN ALLIANCE — Dobby’s Frontier Town, located at 320 E. 25th St. in Alliance, is a re-creation

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DISCOVER US 5 of Kenneth “Dobby” Lee’s boyhood town. His love of antiques and collecting encouraged him to give others a chance to see and feel what life in rural Nebraska was like at the turn of the 20th century.

He started the town by “fitting out” an authentic general store, like the one his family owned when he was a boy in the 1930s. Soon, Dobby was rescuing historic buildings and recreating and furnishing authentic turn-of thecentury homes and businesses.

Since Dobby’s death in 2009, a new nonprofit organization named Dobby’s Frontier Towners has taken on the task of refurbishing and preserving Dobby’s dream. His town is now home to the log cabin built by Nebraska’s first black homesteader and one of the area’s first filling stations.

Collections include a turn-of-the-centur y mortuary, a saloon and an example of a classic Nebraska-style straw bale building, and much more. Antiques and tools are now set for visitors to pick up and examine, giving Dobby’s Frontier Town a hands-on feel and making the unusual attraction a fun and recreational experience.

The town features a general store and meat market, 1880s post office, bootlegger’s shack with lookout cupola, blacksmith forge, dress shop, cobbler’s shop, saloon, bordello, Rex’s Hamburger Stand, First National Bank, doctor’s and dentist’s offices, jail and print shop.

A Fall Festival, Sept. 21 and 22, offers live music, entertainment, demonstrations, food and lots of fun. The event is open to the public from 10 a.m. to dusk.

Summer hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday. Information: 308-762-4321, 308-762-7157 or 308-760-3574.

KNIGHT MUSEUM AND SANDHILLS CENTER ALLIANCE — Pioneer memorabilia, Native American artifacts and railroad history highlight the collection of the newly renovated Knight Museum and Sandhills Center, located at 908 Yellowstone in Alliance. Museum visitors can get a glimpse of the life lived by the people who settled in the Box Butte County area and the Nebraska Sandhills. Smithsonian style displays are designed to accent the extensive collection of pioneer history.

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6 DISCOVER US The Knight Museum and Sandhills Center has compiled many of the city and county records into a digital database that is available to the public. They offer a large research room providing records from Box Butte and the Panhandle, all microfilmed local newspapers and area authors. Photo and genealogical files are available for research and volunteer researchers are available to consult and help.

Admission is free, group tours are available and the building is handicap accessible. The Newberry Gift Shop, carrying local authors and unique gifts, is now open.

The facility’s winter hours (Oct. 1 through April 30) are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday. Summer hours (May 1 through Sept. 30) are 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. Information: 308-762-2384 or 308-762-5400, email museum@cityofalliance.net or visit the website at www.knightmuseum.com.

the Sallows Military Museum.

Sitting adjacent to the Sallows Arboretum at 1101 Niobrara, the museum opened in September 2004 and focuses much of its attention on the Alliance Air Base.

Available for viewing are two display rooms and a librar y with materials honoring the nation’s veterans. Displays feature artifacts that tell their stories of braver y and courage.

The museum is open daily May through Oct. 1 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday and 1:30 to 4:30 p.m.

Sunday. Winter hours are weekday mornings and Wednesday and Thursday until 4 p.m.

The building is handicap accessible and tours are available. Information: 308-762-2385 , or email museum@cityofalliance.net or visit the website at www.sallowsmilitarymuseum.com.

CENTRAL PARK FOUNTAIN ALLIANCE — This historic fountain can be found at 10th St. and Niobrara, just south of the Sallows Military Museum, It is listed in the SALLOWS MILITARY MUSEUM ALLIANCE — Exhibits from the Civil War, National Register of Historic Places and was the Iraqi War and every war in between adorn built during Franklin D. Roosevelt’s term

Nebraska’s 1st Christmas Box Angel was welcomed to her Garden of Hope October 25, 2008, surrounded by 4 foot walls of Rushmore mahogany granite memory tiles, capstones and reflection benches.

The Angel of Hope is located in the Living Memorial Gardens, developed and cared for by volunteers since 1983. The Angel of Hope and Living Memorial Gardens are frequented each year by locals and visitors from around the world, offering a peaceful, beautiful garden setting, dedicated to all loved ones lost too soon.

If you look closely, you will find the word “HOPE” hidden in the Angel’s right wing.

For more information, including a map to the Living Memorial Gardens in Sidney, Nebraska, visit: nebraskaangelofhope.info or call the Cheyenne County Visitor’s Center at 866-545-4030 or 308-254-4030.

DISCOVER US 7

Dobby’s Frontier Town in Alliance

DISCOVER US 9

Chimney Rock near Bayard

10 DISCOVER US by the Works Projects Administration.

Having been refurbished and modernized, the fountain offers a magnificent computerized light show during evening hours. Operates Memorial Day through Oct. 1, open all hours.

Handicap accessible and tour groups available.

Free admission. Information: 308-762-3876 or email parks@cityofalliance.net

sunken graves. The site can accommodate more than 8,000 casketed and cremated internments. Spreading of ashes is also allowed in the Memorial Garden.

Concrete sidewalks and roads make access easy for those using wheelchairs and motorized vehicles. Business hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., however, gates are left open in the evenings as well as weekends and holidays.

CARNEGIE ARTS CENTER For more information, contact Allen Pannell, ALLIANCE — The Carnegie Arts Center is a bastion of the fine arts in the Nebraska cemetery administrator, at 308-763-8426.

Panhandle. Located at 204 W. 4th St., the center features a Sculpture Garden and fine art displays from local and regional artists.

The main-floor gallery averages 19 different LODGEPOLE shows a year and showcases the works of artists Founded in 1867, Lodgepole was platted in from Nebraska, South Dakota, Colorado, 1884 and incorporated as an official village in Kansas and Wyoming. Carnegie has also hosted 1901. It is the second oldest community in such renowned exhibits as the Albrecht Durer Cheyenne County. and Rembrandt print collections.

The village takes its name from the creek Group tours are available and Carnegie visi- bearing the same name, harkening back to a tors can purchase fine art gifts such as blown time when Native Americans cut poles for glass, pottery, prints and original works and tepees (lodges) along its banks. jewelry. Admission is free and the facility is Several ranchers settled in the area, a dry handicap accessible. goods and grocer y store opened and the Originally built in 1911, it opened as the restored Carnegie Arts Center in 1993. Now, the center is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Memorial Day through Labor Day Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m.

Information: Call 308-762-4571, email carnegieartscenter@bbc.net, or visit the website at www.carnegieartscenter.com

CHEYENNE COUNTY

NEBRASKA VETERANS CEMETERY AT ALLIANCE ALLIANCE — Three miles east of town and 200 yards from the Alliance airport sits Nebraska’s first state veteran’s cemeter y.

Spreading over 20 acres, the facility is an inspirational stop for traveling families as well as regional residents.

Cemetery staff encourages supporting veterans and history through school field trips and the integration of other educational programs.

Shadow boxes in the administration building’s lobby hold photos and medals of recently interred veterans. A committal shelter, resembling a church sanctuary, is available for graveside services.

Native grasses, bushes and trees dot the cemetery’s landscape, reflecting the prairie of western Nebraska. To keep everything green, underground irrigation and drip lines run to all of the trees and ornamental landscaping.

Pre-placed crypts allow for more graves per acre and reduce maintenance costs related with

DISCOVER US 11 Union Pacific Railroad named the town of 368 residents Lodge Pole in 1867. The first school district appeared a few years later and in 1895, the postal department changed the town’s name to one word, Lodgepole.

The Lodgepole Depot Museum offers visitors a peek into the past. Information: 308-4835353.

CABELA’S SIDNEY — Cabela’s offers visitors the opportunity to browse through a wide array of quality outdoor merchandise, including hunting, fishing, camping and outdoor gear.

Located just off I-80 Sidney Exit 59 (115 Cabela Dr. Sidney), the impressive 100,000square-foot showroom and boat shop is also an educational and entertainment attraction, featuring a décor of museum-quality animal displays, huge aquariums and mounted trophy animals interacting in realistic re-creations of their natural habitats. A deli-style restaurant offers fare ranging from wild-game entrees to traditional sandwiches.

Adjacent to Cabela’s retail showroom is a camping area with 27 pull-through sites, four back-in sites, as well as six tent sites.

Additional amenities include semi parking, RV parking and use of dog kennels and a horse corral for animals while shopping. Information: 308-254-7889 or visit www.cabelas.com.

loss of a child, but a place where everyone can sit and reflect about a person who had an impact on their life.

“Those who have endured the loss of a spouse through death or divorce, those who have experienced the pain of losing one or both parents or maybe those who are coping with an illness or terminal disease. We want the Angel of Hope to be a healing place for everyone.”

She said the angels are heavily visited, especially during the annual Day of Remembrance on Dec. 6.

For more information, visit nebraska.angelofhope.info or call the Cheyenne County Visitor’s Center at 866-5454030 or 308-254-4030.

FORT SIDNEY MUSEUM AND POST COMMANDER’S HOME SIDNEY — Markers highlight the history of an old railroad town and the north-south trails to the gold fields in the Black Hills. The garrison, located at Sixth and Jackson streets, was built to protect railroad workers in the late 1800s.

The Fort Sidney museum serves as a vessel for preserving this story and is open May 1 through Labor Day from 9 to 11 a.m. and 1 to 3 p.m. daily. Hours are the same for the Post Commander’s Home, located at 1153 Sixth Ave., with the addition of 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays or by appointment.

Admission is free and the facilities are handi ANGEL OF HOPE A beautiful, peaceful setting is tucked away in capped accessible. Information: 308-254-2150. the Living Memorial Gardens in Sidney’s Legion Park.

LIVING MEMORIAL GARDENS Nebraska’s first Christmas Box Angel was SIDNEY — A memorial stands in Legion unveiled in October 2008 and was officially ded- Park as an established monument, honoring icated on Sept. 26, 2009. The bronze sculpture, the role Sidney plays in American history.

The Angel of Hope, lifts its arms to the heav- Created for departed loved ones, the memorial ens, surrounded by four-foot granite memory consists of trees, shrubs or other living plants. walls and reflection benches. When one looks Legion Park is also home to a war memorial, closely at the angel, the word “HOPE” can be commemorating veterans from all American found in the angel’s right wing. wars. Group tours are available for the memoriThe Angel of Hope and Living Memorial al, which is marked by a 141-foot flagpole and Gardens offers a serene environment for visi- one of the country’s largest American flags. tors and is dedicated to people who have lost a Information: 308-254-5851 or 800-421-4769. loved one.

Rita Schinzel-Anest, one of the organizers of DALTON the project, said the Angel of Hope was done as The agricultural town of Dalton is a commua way to provide a quiet spot where people nity of 315 residents situated along U.S. could go and further the healing process.

Highway 385, 20 miles north of Interstate 80 at “It is a quiet spot to go, and more of a healing Sidney’s east interchange. place,” she said. “To me it is a happier place and Construction on the Burlington-Northern a memorial for people in the area and hopefully Railroad began in 1898 and was completed in will continue to draw many visitors.”

1900. The first depot was built in 1908 and She said the vision of the project is not only Dalton was incorporated the following year. It to provide a place for people to mourn for the was then that the first school was built.

12 DISCOVER US

Boot Hill Cemetery in Sidney, where many soldiers from Fort Sidney are buried.

The history of this small community is on display at the Prairie Schooner Museum. Step into the past with model railroad engines and a visit to the log cabin, adjacent to the museum at 109 US Hwy 385. The museum is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day, on Saturday and Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m. or by appointment.

For information, call 308-377-2413.

DAWES COUNTY FORT ROBINSON — A former military post now serves as the largest Nebraska state park.

Situated near Crawford, Fort Robinson was once the home of cavalry soldiers and, later, German prisoners of war. It has since transformed into a popular stop for in- and out-ofstate outdoor enthusiasts.

The park occupies some 22,000 acres, which are textured with buttes, forested hills and grassy pastures. Longhorn cattle, antelope and buffalo graze and bighorn sheep may be spotted along the park’s Legend Buttes. Deer and elk also wander through on occasion.

Anglers may try their luck in the fort’s ponds and streams and excursions for horseback riders are offered daily during the summer season, as well as stagecoach and jeep tours.

Facilities are on-site for tent and recreational vehicle camping. Rooms fashioned out of reconditioned barracks are available for overnight stays. Most of them have kitchen facilities.

Fort Robinson boasts a rich military history and history buffs can explore the Nebraska Historical Society’s Fort Robinson Museum.

Located in the park, the museum documents the years of the fort’s activity.

Also, those interested in the area’s paleontology and geological history will find a wealth of information at the University of Nebraska’s Trailside Museum.

On summer evenings, the sounds of live theater entertainment pour from the Post Playhouse, a building that once served as the fort’s old quartermaster warehouse. The playhouse’s roots stem from a summer theater production at Chadron State College in 1964. Plays continued to be staged for the most part in Chadron until 1967, when a federal grant was received “to foster cultural programs in northwest Nebraska.”

In 1992, the theater under went a $240,000 renovation project, including an exterior makeover, installation of 180 new seats and air-conditioning. The building of fers full handicapped accessibility. Information: http://www.ngpc.state.ne.us/parks.

FORT ROBINSON STATE PARK — Visitors can stay where blue-coated cavalrymen once bunked.

Fort Robinson State Park, located three miles west on Highway 20, offers activities ranging from jeep, stagecoach and trail rides and tours to trout fishing, swimming, hiking crafts and cookouts.

DISCOVER US 13 Grounds are open year-round for day use for hiking and camping, mountain biking and hunting seasons. The cabins, lodge, modern facilities, big-game firearm and wild turkey season cabins are open April 1 through mid-November.

During winter hours, park office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays. Hours switch to 24 hours a day between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Visitor activities run Memorial Day through Labor Day with a limited schedule in the fall. Park entry permit required. Camping fee charged. Handicapped accessible.

Information: 308-665-2900.

Information: 308-432-6167.

FOR T ROBINSON MUSEUM — Offering interpretive activities and exhibits, this Nebraska State Historical Society Branch Museum is located 3 miles west from Fort Robinson on Highway 20.

The museum features fascinating items from the Fort’s 70-year history and visitors can watch bison, bighorn sheep, elk and antelope wander the park’s 22,000 acres. Open Memorial Day through Labor Day, adult admission is $2 and children accompanied by an adult are free. Admission for unaccompanied children is 50 cents. Handicapped accessible.

Information: 308-665-2919.

MUSEUM OF THE FUR TRADE A cornerstone of the North American Fur Trade heritage lies 3 miles east of Chadron on Highway 20.

Explore the history of North America’s first business, the fur trade. On display is an entire range of goods traded to the Indians, such as textiles, costumes, beads, paints, kettles, knives and silver. The museum also boasts the largest and most complete collection of Northwest guns made for the Indian trade from 1670 to 1900.

The Bordeaux Trading Post, located on the museum grounds, was built in 1837 by the American Fur Company and operated until 1876. The Indian heirloom garden features varieties of corn, squash and beans used by the Northern Plains Indians.

The museum is open May 1 through Oct. 31, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily and by appointment from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. during off-season.

Admission is $5 for adults, and children under the age of 18 are free when accompanied by an adult. Handicapped accessible.

Information: 308-432-3843 or visit www.furtrade.org.

CHADRON STATE PARK Chadron State Park sits 9 miles south of Chadron, nestled in the heart of Nebraska’s Pine Ridge. Founded in 1921, its grounds feature rugged, ponderosa pine-clad hills and open meadows, with Chadron Creek weaving its way through the park.

A lagoon created by the creek’s waters was once a well-utilized swimming hole and now holds trout fishing and paddle boating opportunities. A modern, heated pool continues to be a source of recreation for visitors seeking to escape northwest Nebraska’s summer heat.

Spring turkey hunting and the fall deer season open and close the park’s busy season, although visitors are welcome throughout the year. The park maintains several rustic cabins and duplex housing is available for those preferring to “rough it” in a more comfortable setting. Campers will also find well-groomed primitive and electrical sites for an evening’s rest.

The park’s trail system accommodates a variety of hiking and biking options and the open picnic grounds are equally conducive to recreational activities and restful idling.

Horseback riding, trading post and a snack bar are available. Daily permits are $4 and annual park stickers are $20. Permits allow entrance into all Nebraska Parks.

MARI SANDOZ HIGH PLAINS HERITAGE CENTER CHADRON — The Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center at Chadron State College celebrates the works of the noted prairie author.

Nebraska’s Storyteller of the Plains, Mari Sandoz, not only wrote about the challenges of life on the prairie, she lived it.

Sandoz was born on Mirage Flats, south of Hay Springs on May 11, 1896, to Swiss immigrant parents. After years of struggle and rejection that left her destitute to the point of malnutrition, Sandoz finally published her first book, “Old Jules”, a biography of her father. In addition to “Old Jules”, Sandoz is best known for her books “Cheyenne Autumn” and “Crazy Horse”. In all, she authored 23 books.

The center also preserves the history of the cattle ranching industry of the High Plains through the C.F. Coffee Gallery. Named for the longtime ranching family, the Coffee Gallery explores the development and evolution of the ranching industry in northwest Nebraska.

The college’s former library building, built in 1929, serves as a museum and research center.

Information: 308-432-6401 or visit the website at www.csc.edu/sandoz.

14 DISCOVER US CRAWFORD NEBRASKA HIGH COUNTRY RANCH RIDE — Head out 8 miles east of Crawford for a horseback ride at the Nebraska High Country Ranch Ride. Deer and turkey hunting trips can also be scheduled. Call anytime for reservations. Group rates are available. Information: 308-665-1580, 308-665-2343 or 308-667-2764, or email highcountryranchride@bbcwbnet. Call for information or visit nebraskahighcountryranchride.com HUDSON-MENG BISON KILL ENCLOSURE — More than 600 10,000-yearold bison skeletons lie in heaps at the HudsonMeng Bison Kill Enclosure.

Turn off Nebraska Highways 2 and 71 approximately 4 miles north of Crawford and head west on Toadstool Road, following signs along 15 miles of gravel road to the enclosure.

The sheltered, active archaeological site opens Memorial Day weekend.

Guided interpretive tours are available. The enclosure is open daily from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Admission: adults for $5, children for $3, ages four and under are free. Senior and group rates available. Information: Call the Center at 308-6653900 or Forest Supervisor’s office at 308-432-0300.

a.m. to 5 p.m. Fees are $3 for adults, $1 for youth ages 5 to 18 and free for children under 4 years of age. Families of two adults and children are $6. Program fees and park permits are $4 one-time or $20 annually. Information: 308-665-2929 WARBONNET BATTLEFIELD — Five miles north on Nebraska Highways 2 and 71, 2 miles west on gravel, turn right, proceed 1 mile past the Toadstool Park turnof f, turn left on Orella Road, cross tracks and follow main gravel west to Church of Montrose. North of the church is a high conical hill, where an encounter took place between the 5th U.S. Cavalr y and a group of Native Americans in 1876.

Southeast of the hill, a monument memorializes the slaying of Cheyenne warrior, Yellow Hand, who was killed there by Buffalo Bill Cody.

TOADSTOOL PARK — The moon-like landscape of the Badlands makes for a scenic and unusual setting for a picnic. Four miles north of Crawford on Nebraska Highways 2 and 71, turn west onto Toadstool Road (gravel road), following the signs to Toadstool Park.

A self-guided trail brochure helps visitors explore the area’s fascinating geology. Open year-round, admission is $3 per day.

Handicapped accessible camping facilities are on-site. Camping fees are $5 per night, which includes a one-day admission fee. Information: 308-432-0300.

SOLDIER CREEK WILDERNESS — Near Fort Robinson, this federal wilderness encompasses 7,794 acres and offers 16 miles of trails for non-mechanized use only. See a variety of wildlife as well as buttes and pinnacles. Open year-round, deer and turkey hunting is also available. Camping fee at Soldier Creek Trailhead is $8. Additional camping BIG SPRINGS areas, Roberts Trailhead and Red Cloud, Located along the Oregon-California Trail, offer camping for $8 and $5, respectively. the town is named after the pure spring Camping fees are in effect from mid-May water that poured out of a hillside. The origthrough mid-November. Restroom facilities inal spring still flows down above a park with are handicap accessible. Information: 308432-0300.

TRAILSIDE MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY — This museum tucked away in the historic Fort Robinson State Park, 3 miles west of Crawford, on Highway 20 and about two hours from Interstate 80. The main floor of the museum where the exhibits, rock shop and restrooms are located is wheelchair accessible. However, the gift shop, located on a lower level, is not. Open Memorial Day through Labor Day from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The museum is also open April and May, Thursday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and September through October from 10

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1407 E. 2nd St. • Alliance, NE 69301

DISCOVER US 15 a swimming pool, playground, historical museum and a veterans memorial across the street from the park.

Built in 1885, the Phelps Hotel is viewed as the most important 19th centur y landmark in Deuel County. The Historic Phelps Hotel has been restored. The building is a large two-stor y frame structure with a hip roof. Phelps Hotel is also enrolled on the National Register of Historic Places. To reser ve the hotel contact Randy Shaw at 308-889-3580. For more information on Big Springs, contact the village clerk at 308-2895534.

CHAPPELL The town has a Pony Express marker, Chappell Lake, municipal golf course, city swimming pool, a Legion Baseball park and a librar y that includes an art display. The city’s museum, located at the corner of Third Street and Babcock, includes paintings by well-known ar tists and a rock collection donated by a local collector.

The Sudman-Neumann Heritage House, located at Fifth and Vincent, is an example of 1911 architecture, built and inhabited by members of one family. Information: 308-8742401.

GARDEN COUNTY

ated from the wind-blown sands of an ancient sea. The 21 lakes and numerous ponds are supported by an aquifer lying below the hills.

GARDEN COUNTY MUSEUM OSHKOSH — An early 1900s schoolhouse and an old 1906 opera house/theatre are filled with historic artifacts. Summer hours: Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Sunday, 2 to 6 p.m. or by appointment. Free. 308-7723848.

GOSHEN COUNTY Wyoming FORT LARAMIE NATIONAL HISTORICAL SITE Located three miles southwest of the town of Fort Laramie, Wyo., off U.S. Route 26. The fort grounds are open from dawn to dusk every day of the year. The joint Junior Ranger program with Guernsey State Park, about 13 miles west on U.S. Highway 26, is a new addition to the park.

A completed scavenger hunt, directed by the special Junior Ranger booklet at either site, earns a badge. If completed at both sites, a special coin, depicting Old Bedlam at Fort Laramie, and the museum at Guernsey State Park, is the prize. A valid park sticker is needed for entr y or a $3 fee will be charged. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, the fort museum and visitor center are open at 8 a.m. with extended hours during the summer season. For t Laramie’s summer season is May 1 through Sept. 30. Handicap accessible. Information: 307-837-2221.

ASH HOLLOW STATE HISTORICAL PARK Sweet spring water made this park near Lewellen a major stopover on the Overland Trail. Southeast on U.S. 26, the ruts etched by westbound wagons are visible on the bluffs at Windlass Hill. A visitor center helps interpret the area’s history, archaeology and paleontolHOMESTEADERS MUSEUM ogy. A hiking trail takes travelers from the visTORRINGTON, Wyo. — Located at 495 itor center to the spring at the bottom of the Main St., spring hours are Monday canyon. Grounds are open April 1 to Oct. 31 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. including the interpretive Escape to the serenity of a facilities, visitor center and cave. Open Memorial Day through Labor Day, Friday beautiful country setting, a few through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.. Park miles from town, but a world entr y permits are required. Facilities are apart. Experience sunrise as handicap accessible. Information: 308-778you savor a morning cup of 5651. coffee on the second floor balcony. Watch the clouds CRESCENT LAKE NATIONAL float above the pines as WILDLIFE REFUGE you relax in the hammock OSHKOSH — This little-known refuge, in the courtyard. located 28 miles north between U.S. 26 and Nebraska 2 in the Nebraska Panhandle, consists of 45,818 acres of rolling sandhills, the largest continuous sand dune area in America. The grass-covered dunes were cre-

NIOBRARA CO. SIOUX CO.

SHERIDAN CO.

DAWES CO.

GOSHEN CO.

BOX BUTTE CO.

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GARDEN CO.

MORRILL CO. SCOTTSBLUFF

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KIMBALL CO.

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DISCOVER US 17

Native American tribes commemorate the Fort Laramie Treaty of 1851 at Fort Laramie National Historical Site near Fort Laramie, Wyo. rated in 1908, and Goshen County was established in 1913. The museum, located at the old Union Pacific Depot, displays homesteading in Goshen County, including the Trout Homestead Shack, the Yoder House, Midway School, and the Memorial Transpor tation Building housing the first car in Goshen County, and a stage coach.

The museum was founded as a bicentennial project. Admission is free and donations are accepted. Information: 307-532-5612.

through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; summer hours are from Memorial Day to Labor Day Monday, T uesday and Wednesday from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Thursday and Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday from noon to 5 p.m., and closed on Sunday. Torrington was incorpo-

HAWK SPRING RECREATION — Located off Highway 85 in Goshen County, Hawk Springs offers boating, waterskiing, picnicking and camping. The reservoir has a blue heron rooker y and visitors might see a Canadian goose, mallard, blue–winged and green-winged teal, gadwall, pintail, wood duck, avocet and the great horned owl.

Fishing is offered at the site, and game fish include walleye, large mouth bass, yellow perch and channel catfish. Ice fishing is a winter activity. The site is unmanned, but a ranger patrols.

The reservoir has 24 camping units for trailers or tents, comfort stations and a boat ramp.

The Division of State Parks and Historic Sites administers and maintains the Hawk Springs,

18 DISCOVER US while the Wyoming Game and Fish agency regulates the recreational use of the water and stocks the reservoir with fish.

The reservoir is open daily and entrance for residents is $4 and camping is $6.

Non-residents pay $6 and camping is $11.

Annual permits are $33 for residents and $53 for non-residents.

THE WESTERN HISTORY CENTER LINGLE, Wyo. — In this log building, visitors will find archaeological items ranging from mammoth tusks and prehistoric tools to rotating displays of geological and historic collections. In addition, there is a hands-on “dig” for children of all ages and a bookstore. Located 5 miles west of Lingle, Wyo., and 5 miles east of Fort Laramie, Wyo., a Mammoth cutout points visitors to the museum grounds from the road.

Summer hours between June 1 and Aug. 31, are Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

For special tours and extended hours, call 307837-3052. Handicap accessible.

nercountychamber.com.

GOTTE PARK — Kimball. Located on East Highway 30. The park offers a horseshoe ring, tennis court and swimming pool.

Information: 308-235-3782.

OLIVER STATE RECREATION AREA — Eight miles west of Kimball on U.S. 30. Open year-round, 24 hours a day for camping and fishing. Excellent facilities for boating, water-skiing, fishing, swimming, ice fishing, camping, and ice-skating. Sandy beaches. State park entr y permit required, $17/annual or $3/daily. A camping fee of $3 per night for primitive camping applies.

Information: 308-235-4040.

PANORAMA POINT AND THREESTATE MARKER — Twenty miles southwest of Kimball. Visit Nebraska’s highest point at 5,424 ft. See the Three-State Marker (Nebraska, Wyoming and Colorado). Maps and certificates available for both sites at KimballKIMBALL Visit Kimball’s website at www.kimballban- Banner County Chamber of Commerce,

KIMBALL COUNTY

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DISCOVER US 19 located at 122 South Chestnut in Kimball. trails and features original maps made from Information: 308-235-3782.

Captain John C. Fremont’s 1842-43 exploration of the Oregon Trail. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 WIND FARM — To view from Highway p.m. Admission is $3 for adults. Closed all win71, go 3 miles northwest of Kimball or for a ter holidays. Handicapped accessible. closer view, go 2 miles west of town on Information: 308-586-2581.

Highway 30 and onto dirt road. The seven wind turbines each stand 350 feet tall, with the tur OREGON TRAIL WAGON TRAIN — bine and blades weighing more than 40 tons. Bayard, 2 miles south of Bayard, 1½ mile west The wind farm is expected to generate about 2 on Oregon Trail Road. Experience the real to 3 percent of electric energy for nearly 4,000 West in the shadow of Chimney Rock aboard a homes. Tours can be arranged by contacting prairie schooner on the Oregon Trail. Exciting the city of Kimball at 308-235-3782. journeys, complete with Pony Express riders and Native Americans, are available on a oneday basis. Evening chuckwagon nightly rib-eye steak cookout; guided, prearranged group tours and wagon train treks. Write for tour BAYARD CHIMNEY ROCK NATIONAL HIS- schedules. RV park available. Charge for activiTORIC SITE AND VISITORS CENTER — ties. By reservation only. Handicapped accessiNear Bayard, about 1 mile south of Highway 92 ble and groups available. Information: 308-586and County Road 75, “towering to the heavens” 1850 or check out the website at www.oreis how one pioneer described Chimney Rock, gontrailwagontrain.com. the most recognized landmark along the BRIDGEPORT Oregon Trail. Today, an interpretive center BRIDGEPORT STATE RECREATION operated by the Nebraska State Historical Society pays tribute to those who traveled the AREA — Bridgeport, U.S. 26 or U.S. 385.

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DISCOVER US 23 Sandpit lakes provide recreation within a few minutes of Chimney, Courthouse and Jail rocks. Bridgeport State Recreation Area is open year-round. Summer hours are 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Trailer dump stations are open April 30 - Oct. 1. Park entry permit required. Fee for primitive camping is $7 per night. Information: 308-436-3777.

PIONEER TRAILS MUSEUM — Bridgeport. North end of Main Street. Open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday 1 to 6 p.m. Free admission.

Information: 308-262-0123.

COUR THOUSE AND JAILHOUSE ROCKS — Near Bridgeport, about 5 miles south on Nebraska 88, these unusual rock formations were two of the first “road signs” met by westward travelers. Open year-round during daylight hours. Admission is free and tours are available.

SCOTTS BLUFF COUNTY FARM AND RANCH MUSEUM Volunteers dedicated to preser ving the region’s farm agricultural heritage created The Farm and Ranch Museum. The museum, located one-half mile west of Gering, 2930 Old Oregon Trail, is still under volunteer leadership and operates mainly by donations.

The Harvest Festival at the Farm And Ranch Museum offers many activities and demonstrations for people of all ages. Events include demonstrations of early farming methods and exhibits of vintage machinery.

The museum is open all year, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m. and summer hours, Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m. Appointments may be made for tours and visits during the winter. Information: 308436-1989.

LAKE MINATARE MINATARE — An ideal camping, picnicking, fishing, wildlife watching, hiking and water sports area awaits only 12 miles from Scottsbluff/Gering.

The Lake Minatare State Recreation Area is open Jan. 14 through Oct. 15 and annual permits are $20. Day passes are $4 per car. Both

can be purchased at the park headquarters.

The park has campsites with electrical outlets. There are also about 150 to 180 primitive campsites throughout the 2,180-acre park.

Lake Minatare also features one of only seven inland lighthouses in the United States.

The lighthouse was built during the Depression to be “a point of light and hope” for Panhandle residents.

The lake is par t of the Nor th Platte Wildlife Refuge, which also opens for public use Jan. 15 through Oct. 1 and provides opportunities to view waterfowl and wildlife, as well as hiking, fishing, boating and photography.

The refuge closes from public use ever y Oct. 15 to provide undisturbed habitat for waterfowl during the migration period. As mild temperatures persist and ice gives way to open water, the four refuge units — Lake Minatare, Winters Creek Lake, Lake Alice and Stateline Island — are ideal resting spots for waterfowl. The refuge is also important as a nesting location for bald eagles.

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24 DISCOVER US LAKE MINATARE STATE RECREATION AREA — Seven miles north of Minatare. Over 2,000 acres of water with facilities for boaters, campers, fishermen and outdoor enthusiasts. The stone lighthouse and swimming beach are open 8 a.m.-9:30 p.m., 7 days/week. Information: 308-7832911.

FIVE ROCKS AMPHITHEATER Five Rocks Amphitheater is an outdoor entertainment venue located a quarter-mile south of the junction of Five Rocks Road and M Street in Gering. Each year the amphitheater is host to a variety of entertainers. It has a capacity of 3,200 people.

Five Rocks outdoor cinema has become a popular place to spend the summer evenings watching movies under the stars. “Movies at the Rocks” are shown Thursdays at 9 p.m.

Admission is $2. Many events are scheduled at Five Rocks Amphitheater. Check out the schedule at www.gering.org. Schedules are also available at the City of Gering office located at 1025 P St. Tickets and information: 308-436-5096.

■ MIDWEST THEATER SCOTTBLUFF — The Historic Midwest Theater is the last of three “grand theaters,” which were built in the Scottsbluff/Gering area. Seating 700 people, the theater opened on May 3, 1946, and was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1997. A nonprofit group, Friends of the Midwest Theater, was established in 1998 to renovate and keep the theater active for the community.

The group regularly coordinates mainstream and specialty films, visual and performing arts and school and community educational programming. The theater can also be reserved for special events.

The theater is designed in the Art Modern style of architecture and exhibits an exceptionally high degree of architectural and artistic integrity, both on its interior and exterior. The theater’s most striking feature, as described in a 1946 newspaper article, “is the marquee with a stainless steel and aluminum tower extending 60’ above the entrance.” The lighted tower was designed to be seen at night for a radius of 20 miles. The “modern” interior decor and the dominant marquee and tower add to the

DISCOVER US 25 architectural excitement of the streetscape of Scottsbluff’s downtown business district.

SCOTTS BLUFF NATIONAL MONUMENT From 1841 to 1869, 250,000 pioneers traveled one of four trails that included Oregon, Mormon and California through the Mitchell Pass as a final gateway to the Rocky Mountains. The Pony Express Trail also traipsed through the area.

Today, Scotts Bluff National Monument looms above the historic Mitchell Pass and North Platte River Valley 3 miles west of Gering. The Saddle Rock walking trail and the Summit Road with its three tunnels lead to the monument’s summit.

The monument museum contains exhibits about the area’s human and natural history and also holds a unique collection of watercolor paintings by famed frontier photographer and artist William Henry Jackson.

There are permanent exhibits on the Westward Movement, and periodic temporary displays and traveling exhibits. There is also a 12-minute orientation program.

Monument hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

It is open on all holidays except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Day and Presidents Day. The Summit Road closes at 4:30 p.m.

Admission is $5 per car, $3 for motorcycles and $3 for walkers. People ages 62 and over are free with an Interagency Senior Pass. A Bi-park Pass is $15 and is good for Scotts Bluff National Monument and Fort Laramie in Wyoming. Handicapped accessible.

Information 308-436-4340.

THEATRE WEST Theatre West Summer Repertory is a semiprofessional theatre company operating in Scottsbluff, Nebraska. The company was formed in 1990 as a not-for-profit organization and consists of a live summer theatre program and Theatre Opportunity For Youth (TOFY), a children’s camp. TWSR is housed at Western Nebraska Community College (1601 E. 27th St.) and is directed by an executive director and board, as well as a Community Advisory Board. It is generously supported by Western Nebraska Community College.

Each summer, Theatre West operates during a 10-week season. The company presents three separate productions with eight performances of each production, providing opportunity for experience, training, and performance, as well as live theater productions

for audience members.

A high school intern program is offered each season, giving experience and training to students interested in theater. The TOFY Camp invites youth, ages 6-13, to participate each season. For information concerning Theatre West, the internship program or the TOFY Camp, call 308-635-6794.

Theatre West offers: Professional directors, designers, and actors from across the United States, collegiate theater majors, as well as talented musicians, actors, and singers from our own community. Choice reser ved seating is available to productions with season tickets and/or advanced individual tickets. The theater is handicapped accessible. Call 308-635-6193 for tickets.

More information can be obtained at Judy@nebraskarts.com or by calling at 308635-6794.

RIVERSIDE DISCOVERY CENTER SCOTTSBLUFF — Great family fun and entertainment await at the Riverside Discovery Center. Located at 1600 S. Beltline Highway West in Scottsbluff, RDC exhibits approximately

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308-630-6236 1600 South Beltline Hwy. West PO Box 2321 • Scottsbluff, NE info@riversidediscoverycenter.org

26 DISCOVER US

North Platte Valley Museum in Gering

DISCOVER US 27 180 animals, including reptiles, birds, invertebrates and mammals.

Animal residents include chimpanzees, Amur tigers, spider monkeys, lions, zebras, Eurasian lynx, African hoof stock and various reptiles and birds. Guests can enjoy feeding waterfowl on the zoo’s lake and children can check out a playground, petting zoo and an all-new splash pad.

Summer hours: March through November, gates open 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily, Winter hours: December through February, 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Admission is $6 for adults, Five dollars for seniors, $4 for children ages five to 12 and children under age 4 are free. Half-off admission is available for groups of 15 or more.

Handicapped accessible. Information: 308-6306236.

WEST NEBRASKA ARTS CENTER SCOTTSBLUFF — Established in 1967, the West Nebraska Arts Center provides artists a lively public venue to share their talents with the community. The arts center’s eclectic programming leads adults and youth to a better understanding and appreciation of the arts.

The gallery at 106 E. 18th St. features local, national and international artists and represents a wide variety of visual art forms with a new exhibit each month. Gallery exhibits and receptions are free and open to the public.

The arts center is also a presenter of live performances of theater, music and dance.

WNAC’s Monument Children’s Theater gives the youth community professional training in theater arts.

Arts professionals offer a variety of studio art classes and workshops to adults and youth throughout the year. WNAC’s summer Art Camp offers workshops in visual and performing arts and creative writing to youth ages 1014.

Gallery hours are Tuesday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., weekends 1 to 5 p.m., and closed Mondays. Also open by appointment, call the office at 308-632-2226. Visit www.thewnac.com to learn more.

WILDCAT HILLS NATURE CENTER GERING — Overlooking the North Platte Valley, the Wildcat Hills Nature Center offers tourists the chance to learn about the ecology and history of the area, while providing a scenic view of the surrounding hills.

Upon entering the building, visitors find a 27foot artificial Ponderosa pine in the middle of the room, disappearing through a hole in the floor and leading to the level below. A variety of

mounted birds stare down from their high perches, each positioned in various poses.

Across the way are doors leading out to an observation deck.

Downstairs, a display stands in one corner, featuring various critters in their natural habitats. A live beehive sits off along another wall, allowing the bees to come and go to the outdoors through a little tunnel and a hole in the wall.

On the opposite wall, a huge mural depicting the land, decorates every inch from floor to ceiling. A display case also sits off to one side, exhibiting fossils that were discovered a short distance away.

Along with the chance to learn about nature and history in an intriguing environment, the nature center also provides its visitors with a wide variety of programs, including visits from speakers and area organizations. The facilities can be reserved for special occasions such as weddings, reunions and banquets. The nature center also houses a gift shop.

Outside there are 3½ miles worth of hiking trails, a picnic area with shelters and a campground located near the nature center.

The Wildcat Hills Nature Center offers

FINAL REGISTRATION DEADLINE IS MAY 10TH. DON’T MISS YOUR CHANCE!

28 DISCOVER US educational activities for students from kindergarten through sixth grades, including children’s day camps and nature series art classes, which take place five weeks out of the summer. Pre-registration and pre-payment are required and some events have enrollment limits. Registrations may be picked up at the Wildcat Hills Nature Center, located south of Gering.

Hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., seven days per week from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend. Winter hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. A park permit is required for the campground and any other facilities. Daily park permits cost $5 and annual permit are $25. They can be purchased at the nature center. Information: 308-436-3777.

NOR TH PLATTE VALLEY MUSEUM — Explore the valley’s unique histor y from nomadic Plains Indians villages to Oregon Trail travel and early pioneer settlement as depicted in well presented, informative exhibits of Gering’s North Platte Valley Museum. Located three blocks south of the Gering Civic Center on the corner of 11th and J streets, the museum is open Tuesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Memorial Day through Labor Day, the museum is open Saturdays and Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m. Admission $3 for adults, $1 for children ages six to 12 and children ages 5 and under are free. Handicapped accessible. Information: 308-436-5411.

contracted cholera and died. A friend chiseled her name and the year on an iron wagon tire to mark her grave on the prairies.

In 1899, sur veyors for the Burlington Railroad found the cr ude marker and changed the right-of-way for the railroad.

The site was one of the more famous historical locations along the Mormon Trail. With heavy coal train traffic along the railroad, it became necessar y to relocate the grave of Rebecca Winters on Sept. 5, 1995, to the area of the current historical marker. The site is handicap accessible.

SHERIDAN COUNTY GORDON SCAMAHORN MUSEUM — West Fifth Street in Wayland Park. The histor y of the Gordon area is in this 1884 church. Open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 1 to 4 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday from 7 to 9 p.m., or by appointment. Admission is free.

BOWRING RANCH — Located 30 miles east of Gordon, just nor th of Merriman, this historical museum is a working ranch that tells the stor y of Arthur and Eva Bowring, who both ser ved in the U.S. House of Representatives. The ranch features a visitor’s center of artifacts and memorabilia of early day ranching and the Bowrings’ political careers and a replica of a sod house from the 1800s. The ranch also offers tours of the original Bowring home, which is filled with antique china and glass ROBIDOUX PASS — At the junctions of ware. Tours begin in May and close Sept. 1.

Five Rocks Road and M Street, go 1 mile south Information: 308-684-3428. on Five Rocks Road, then turn west and go 8 miles. Western traffic flowed through this pass TRI-STATE OLD TIME COWBOYS from 1843 to 1851. Left of the road is a monu- MEMORIAL MUSEUM — Located in the city ment for the blacksmith shop; to the right are park 1 block west of Main Street between Third pioneer graves. Reconstructed trading post in and Fourth streets, this log building contains Carter Canyon, south of Gering; turn right at cowboy artifacts such as saddles, hats and Cedar Canyon Road. Grounds open year-round. boots, plus a chuckwagon with more than 200 Groups by appointment. Free. Information: 308- cattle brands. Open Memorial Day through mid-Sept, 1-5 p.m.; or by appointment. Free 436-6886. admission. Handicapped accessible. Group REBECCA WINTERS’ GRAVE — tours available. Information: 308-282-0749.

About 2 miles east of Scottsbluff at the junction of U.S. Highway 26 and S. Beltline HAY SPRINGS Highway, travelers will find the grave of HERITAGE CENTER I AND II — The Rebecca Winters. Born in New York State in first center is at Second and Main streets in an 1802, Winters was a pioneer in the Church of old hardware store, the second center is on N. Baker Street in an 1884 church. The centers the Latter Day Saints.

In June 1852, Rebecca, with her husband offer the history of the Hay Springs area. The Hiram, joined others of their faith, in the centers are open by appointment. Free admisgreat journey to Utah. Along the way, she sion. Information: 308-638-7643.

DISCOVER US 29 RUSHVILLE SHERIDAN COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM — Just of f Highway 20 in Rushville. The complete stor y of Camp Sheridan and the Spotted Tail Agency can be found here, along with numerous exhibits showing life on the frontier. Open Memorial Day through Labor Day, Monday through Friday from 1 to 4 p.m. and by appointment.

Admission free. Handicapped accessible.

Information: 308-638-7643.

WALGREN LAKE STATE RECREATION AREA — Located 2 miles east, 3 miles south of Highway 20, legend has it that a Loch Ness-style creature inhabits this unusually tranquil Sandhills lake, with its enticing camping, fishing, hiking and picnic facilities. Open year-round, reser vations are not required. Handicapped accessible, park entr y permit required. Information: 308-7632940.

SIOUX COUNTY AGATE FOSSIL BEDS NATIONAL MONUMENT HARRISON — Set in a high plains ecosystem along the Niobrara River and the upper Niobrara River wetlands, Agate Fossil Beds is a 3,055-acre national park located near Harrison. The fossil beds were once part of “Captain” James H. Cook’s Agate Springs Ranch, where mammal fossils dating back some 20 million years to the Miocene epoch were found in a bone bed. The ranch was also known as a gathering place for Oglala Lakota Sioux and Chief Red Cloud.

The visitor center features a collection of American Indian artifacts reflective of the time period between the 1880s and the early 1900s, paleontology exhibits and a 12minute movie, “The Fossil Hills”, available with closed captions. Two hiking trails, the Fossil Hills Trail and the Daemonelix Trail visit the historic dig sites and Daemonelix burrows.

The visitor center and museum winter hours are daily, Labor Day through Memorial Day, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and summer hours are daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The center is closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. The trails are open year-round from dawn until dusk. Admission is free.

OGLALA NATIONAL GRASSLAND — Fifteen miles north of Harrison. The Oglala National Grassland begins 5 miles northwest of Crawford and ends up in the corner of Nebraska, where Nebraska meets Wyoming and South Dakota. The grasslands cover almost 95,000 acres of prairie grasses providing hunting in season, hiking and nature study in the high country of western Nebraska.

Tourists are encouraged to be aware that some of the land is privately owned among the grassland and may not be appropriate for recreation. Information: 308-432-0300.

SIOUX COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM HARRISON — Located on the east side of South Main St. A schoolhouse, post office and countr y store, telephone of fice and home, as well as the main museum tell the stor y of the settling of Sioux County and on into the 20th centur y. Open May 31 through Sept. 15, Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Sunday, 1 to 4 p.m. Admission is free and group tours are available. Information: 308668-2166.

Main Street Market 401 South Beltline Hwy, Scottsbluff, NE 308-632-5303

Mr. Tire Car & Auto Center 401 South Beltline Hwy 308-632-5307

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30 DISCOVER US MAY May 4 — Polar Bear Run at Sidney Regional Medical Center. Registration at 4 p.m. race starts at 4:30 p.m., Sidney May 3 — National Day of Prayer “62nd annual Observance” Gering Civic Center, Gering May 4 — Cinco De Mayo Parade 10 a.m., Scottsbluff May 4 — Keep Scottsbluff/Gering Beautiful Annual “Pharmaceutical Take Back” 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Main Street Market East parking lot. Avenue B & South Beltline Highway, Scottsbluff May 4 — Catfish Classic Tournament – Kingsley Dam at Lake McConaughy west to the Oshkosh Bridge over the North Platte River, Ogallala May 4 — Sidney’s Great Trash Race 8:30 – 11:00 a.m., Sidney May 4-5 — Monument Mall “Arts & Crafts Show”, Scottsbluff May 10 — The North Platte Valley Museum “Puzzles of the Past”, Gering May 11 — Terry McCormick Memorial Walleye Tournament, Lewellen May 11 — Summit Christian College “Summit to Summit,” a community walk/run or ride the shuttle.

Gering to the top of the Monument. Start: Runners 8 a.m.. Walkers-Open start from 8:15 – 11 a.m. and health screenings, $15/ adults over 16. $10/615 and $5/5 and under, Gering.

May 18 — Camp Clarke Raiders Spring Rendezvous, Bridgeport May 18 — Shut up and Fish Walleye Tournament, Lewellen May 18 — Free Park Day, BBQ and Kids Fishing Derby 8 a.m. Fort Robinson, Crawford May 18 — Wildcat Hills Wildlands Day Fun Run, 8K, 8 a.m. at Nature Center south of Gering.

Activities continue all day.

May 24-26 — Golf Classic, golfers compete to win at Chadron’s Ridgeview Country Club, Chadron.

May 31 — Camp Clarke Days, Bridgeport

JUNE May 31 — Ft. Robinson’s Post Playhouse presents “Annie Get Your Gun”. First playhouse of the season. Fort Robinson Playhouse, Crawford May 31-June 2 — 25th annual Sugar Valley Rally, a precision driving contest for antique cars (pre-1958) start and finish in Scottsbluff and Gering May 31-June 2 — Thunder on the Prairie Rod Run, poker run, BBQ and dance, Alliance June 1 — West Nebraska All-Star Football, 7p.m., Bearcat Stadium, Scottsbluff June 1 — West Nebraska All-Star Volleyball 2p.m., WNCC Cougar Palace, Scottsbluff June 1 — Annual Beef Cook-off, Oshkosh June 1 — Kids fishing clinic and Water Expo.

Ogallala June 1 — Treasures Flea Market, Sheridan County Fairgrounds, Gordon June 1-2 — 9th annual Spring Classic Golf Tournament, Ogallala June 1-9 — The Farm and Ranch Museum in Gering hosts the “Tractor Ride Relay Across

CALENDAR OF EVENTS Nebraska”, Gering June 2 – Couples Classic golf tournament, Ogallala June 2 — 7th annual Ride the Ridge Bike Challenge, south of Chadron State Park, Chadron June 7 — Fort Robinson’s Post Playhouse presents “Always…Patsy Cline” Fort Robinson Playhouse, Crawford June 7-9 — Gold Rush Day quick draw competitions, chuck wagon cookout and fun for all, Sidney June 7-9 — Cowboy Capital Classic Open Baseball Tournament, Ogallala June 7-9 — 14th Annual Intertribal Gathering at 8:30 a.m. Native American arts, crafts and traditional powwow, Crawford June 8 — Gering Arts Festival, Gering June 8 — Colorado Walleye Association Walleye Tournament, Ogallala June 8 – Brule Community-Wide Garage Sale, Brule June 8 — Gering “Arts Festival” 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Legion Park, 12th and O Streets, Gering June 9 — Tri-State Motocross NMA Qualifier race, Mitchell June 11 — Ft. Robinson’s Post Playhouse presents “Hollywood: A Cabaret” Fort Robinson Playhouse, Crawford June 12 — Box Butte County Art Society State Convention, Alliance June 14 — The North Platte Valley Museum “Puzzles of the Past”, Gering June 14-15 — 20th annual Ash Hollow Pageant.

10a.m. to 4 p.m. Quilt and Art show. 5-6:30pm, Chuck Wagon Supper, 5K walk/run, quilt show and musical. Ash Hollow State Historical Park, 3 miles SE of Lewellen on Hwy. 26. Bring own folding chairs. Handicap accessible. Call 308-778-5548 or volunteersofamerica@embarqmail.com.

June 15 — Festival of Hope 11th anniversary celebration and concert, Scottsbluff County Fairgrounds, Mitchell June 15 — Chadron State Park’s 92nd Anniversary Celebration, Chadron June 15 — High Plains Auto Club presents “The Father’s Day Rock & Roll Car Show”, Gering Civic Center and Five Rocks Amphitheater, 1050 M. St., Gering

We take pleasure in your comfort at • 57 great rooms • Spa and Swimming Pool • Kids Stay Free • Toast and Coffee Bar • Flat Screen Cable TV • Truck Parking with Power Outlets • Clean Rooms, Friendly Service • Meeting Room • High Speed Wireless Internet

Americas Best Value Inn

SM

by Vantage

1548 S. Main • Torrington

Reservations can be made by: Calling our local number (307) 532-7118 Toll Free Direct 866-506-8181 Website: www.bestvaluetorrington.com

DISCOVER US 31

Toadstool Park near Crawford

Messiah Lutheran Church

266 North Wehn, Broadwater 308-489-5677

Sunday Worship ~ 9:00AM Minister Ann Barin PMA

Faith Lutheran Church Missouri Synod

2055 U Street, Gering 308-436-4307

Sunday Worship ~ 9:00AM Sunday School ~ 10:15AM Christian Education classes during school year Wednesdays ~ 7:00-8:30PM Richard H. Neugebauer, Pastor

Gering Zion Church 11th & O Street, Gering 308-436-2788 Senior Pastor Paul Hebbert Lead Pastor Tim Hebbert

Sunday Worship Service ~ 9:30AM

Federated Church

1451 Center Avenue, Mitchell 308-623-1933

Holy Apostles Episcopal Church 1730 18th Street, Mitchell 308-623-1969 Rectory: 308-623-2743

Worship Service ~ 10:30AM Pastor Dr. Charles H. Richardson

Regular Worship ~ 10:30AM Sunday School, children & adult ~ 9:30AM Wednesday Healing Service ~ 7:00PM For information call Pastor Carol Ann Bullard

Sovereign Grace Reformed Church

“Reformation Confessions & Catechisms�

Hamilton St. & Jirdon Ave., Morrill 308-247-2741

Sunday School ~ 9:30AM Worship Service ~ 10:30AM Wednesday Bible Study ~ 7:00PM Pastor Tom Hunter

First Prebysterian Church 101 East 20th Street, Scottsbluff 308-632-2131

First United Methodist Church

2002 4th Avenue, Scottsbluff

Sunday Worship 10:15AM

Saturday Night Worship ~ 5:00PM Sunday Morning Worship Services 8:30AM & 11:00AM Sunday School Between Services

Pastor Matt Fowler www.firstumcsb.com (308) 635-2069

Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish La Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe

1102 12th Avenue, Scottsbluff 308-632-2845 MASS SCHEDULE/HORARIO DE MISAS Saturday/Sábado 5PM English Sunday/Domingo 8AM English 11AM Español at Guadalupe Center WEEKDAY MASSES: Tue./Thurs./Fri ~ 8:00AM Wed. ~ 5:30PM

Salem Congregational Church 2001 7th Avenue, Scottsbluff 308-632-4748

St. Agnes Catholic Church

2314 3rd Avenue, Scottsbluff 308-632-2541 Saturday Mass 6:00PM Sunday Mass 8:00AM & 10:30AM (Sept. through May)

8:00AM & 10:00AM (June through August) Call for daily Mass times

9:00AM Sunday School Wednesday: 10:00AM Sunday Worship Service 6:15PM Awana Pastor Dale Brown www.scottsbluffsalem.com

Pastor ~ Fr. Vincent L. Parsons Pastoral Minister ~ Sr. Vera Meis

St. Francis Episcopal Church

St. James Lutheran Church, LCMS

A Holy Place For All God’s Creatures

14 East 20th Street • Scottsbluff 308-632-4626

Proclaiming God’s Word

Corner of 12th Ave. & 14th St. Scottsbluff • 308-632-8001 Celebrating 103 Years

Pastor Ralph Morris Sunday Worship Service ~ 8 & 10AM Nursery & Children’s Sunday School ~ 9:45AM

Sunday Worship Service ~ 10:30AM

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

DISCOVER US 35

Jailhouse Rock near Bridgeport June 22-23 – Gurley Centennial Celebration, Gurley June 26 — Ft. Robinson’s Post Playhouse presents “Seussical, The Musical” Fort Robinson Playhouse, Crawford June 27 — Midwest Theater presents “Love Free or Die”, Scottsbluff June 28 — Post Playhouse at the Performing Arts Center Cabaret, Alliance June 29 — Theatre West 2013 Garden Walk 8 a.m. – 1p.m., Scottsbluff June 29 — Lincoln Highway Pit stop, sidewalk sales, farmers market, craft show, car show, Sidney June 30 — Sod House Sunday church service, team penning, estate tours and children’s games, Bowring Ranch, Merriman June 30 — Independence Day Celebrations and annual car and bike show, Oshkosh

JULY July 1-4 — Western & Wildlife Art Show, Crawford July 3-4 — Old West Trail PRCA 67th Rodeo, Crawford July 3-4 — Independence Day Celebrations and street dance, Oshkosh July 4 — Fourth of July Rodeo, Bridgeport July 4 — Fireworks display, Torrington, Wyo. July 4 — Fireworks display, Scottsbluff July 4 — 4th of July Fireworks, Lodgepole July 4 — 4th of July Celebration, Ogallala July 4 — Fourth of July events, Kimball July 6 — Demolition Derby, Ogallala July 6 — Oregon Trail Days Committee presents The Josh Abbott Band with Stonegate Road, Gering

July 10 — Ft. Robinson’s Post Playhouse presents “The Drowsy Chaperone” Fort Robinson Playhouse, Crawford July 11-14 — 92nd annual Oregon Trail Days. art show, live concerts, chili cook-off, 5-mile run,car show and much more, Gering July 12-14 — Fur Trade Days, Chadron July 12-14 — Buckskinners Primitive Rendezvous, Chadron July 13 — Brule Evening in the Park ice cream social, Brule July 13 — Cabela’s Regional Walleye Championship, Ogallala July 13 — Solid Rock Music Fest, Gering July 16-21 — Heritage Days and carnival, Alliance July 20 — Horse Creek Rendezvous, Morrill July 20 — Tri-State Motocross NMA Non Points Race, Mitchell

Western Nebraska: Scottsbluff, Alliance, Sidney, Chadron, McCook. Eastern Wyoming: Torrington, Cheyenne, Wheatland, Douglas, Casper, Riverton, Worland & Cody

679

$ 8 Piece Chicken

6

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Great Tasting Fried Chicken

Cooked to perfection with a unique taste & style

401 South Beltline Hwy Scottsbluff • 308-635-2522

The Corner of West 27th & Ave I, Scottsbluff

38 DISCOVER US

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

July 27 — 24th Annual Kites and Castles, Ogallala July 27 — 5th Annual Dam Run, Ogallala

Festival, Ogallala Sept. 7 — Brule Gun Show, Brule Sept 8 — Annual Lisco Days Celebration, Lisco Sept. 12 — Indian Summer Rendezvous, Ogallala Sept. 13 — Fall Festival, Oshkosh Sept. 14 — Annual Big Mac Fall Classic Walleye Tournament, Ogallala Sept. 14 — Farm and Ranch museum Harvest Festival, Gering Sept. 14-15 — Willow Tree Festival, Gordon Sept. 20 — Garden County Homecoming, Oshkosh Sept. 20-22 — 19th annual Quilts along the Platte, Goshen County Fairgrounds, Torrington, Wyo. Sept. 20-22 — Indian Summer Rendezvous, craft show, parade, vendors, live entertainment and much more, Ogallala Sept. 21 — Farmers Day, Kimball Sept. 21-23 — Dalton Fall Festival, Dalton Sept. 28 — VOCAIR Flyers Club’s Fly-In Breakfast, Sidney Sept. 28 — Platte Valley Companies 2nd Annual Monument Marathon and HalfMarathon, Gering Sept. 28-29 —Tri-State Motocross NMA race, Mitchell

AUGUST July 27- Aug 4 — Morrill County Fair, Bridgeport July 29-Aug 3 — Cheyenne County Fair and Rodeo, Sidney July 29-Aug 3 — Goshen County Fair, Torrington, Wyo. Aug. 1 — Garden County Fair and Rodeo, Lewellen Aug. 1-5 — Sioux County Fair, dances, rodeo, 4-H exhibits and much more at Harrison County Fairgrounds. Harrison Aug. 1-11 — Box Butte County Fair, mud bogging, cake auction, cat dog and horse shows, parades and much more, Hemingford Aug. 2 — Farmers Day Off golf tournament, Kimball Aug. 2 — Brule Day, Brule Aug. 2-9 — Dawes County Fair, Chadron Aug. 2-10 — Scottsbluff County Fair, Mitchell Aug. 6 — Keith County Fair and Rodeo, Ogallala Aug. 7-11 — Keith County Fair, Ogallala Aug. 7-12 — Kimball-Banner County Fair, Kimball Aug. 9 — Lost Creek Music Festival, Oshkosh Aug. 10 — Antique Tracktor pull and Show, Ogallala Aug. 10 — Prairie Winds Community Center hosts 87th annual Greek Festival, Greek music and dancing, food and other events, Bridgeport Aug. 10 — Scottsbluff County Ag. Society and Scottsbluff Co. Fair presents “The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band with Five to Life concert, Mitchell. Call 308-623-1828.

Aug. 14 — Annual Polish Luau, Oshkosh Aug. 17 — Bushnell Days, parade, craft fair, food, raffles, and much more, Bushnell Aug. 22-24 — Oregon Trail Pro-Am Tournament, Scottsbluff Country Club, Scottsbluff Aug. 25 — Tri-State Motocross NMA race, Mitchell Aug. 29 — Legacy of the Plains museum presents “Marty Stuart concert” at Five Rocks Amphitheater, Gering. Call 308-436-1989 Aug. 30 — Hobie 61 Mac Attack Sailboat Regatta, Ogallala Aug. 31— Blue Water Blues Festival, Oshkosh

Welcome to the

West Make Hampton Inn & Suites in Scottsbluff your base camp while exploring western Nebraska. We offer value-minded travelers comfortable and well-equipped rooms. Featuring 81 rooms, conference center, extended complimentary breakfast bar, wireless Internet, pool, spa and airport shuttle.

Close to shopping areas and restaurants.

301 West Highway 26 • Scottsbluff, NE

SEPTEMBER Aug. 31-Sept. 2 — Potter Days, Potter Aug. 30- Sept. 2 — Old Settlers Days, Lodgepole Sept. 1 — Bayside Western Trail Festival, Brule Sept. 1 — History in Action Day, Chadron Sept. 2 — 15th annual Chicken & Corn Cookout and the Moon of the Changing Leaves 5K Run/Walk Labor Day Celebration, at High Plains Homestead/Drifter Cook shack, Crawford Sept. 6 — Toucan Open Wind Surfing

1-800-HAMPTON • 308-635-5200

CAMPGROUNDS TORRINGTON GOSHEN COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS - (307) 532-2525 PIONEER MUNICIPAL PARK - (307) 532-5666 CITY SLICKERS RV PARK - (307) 850-6923

FORT LARAMIE

20 miles west of Torrington on Hwy 26 CHUCKWAGON RV PARK - (307) 837-2828 PONY SOLDIER RV PARK - (307) 837-3078 SOUTH CITY PARK CAMPGROUND - (307) 837-2711

LINGLE

10 miles west of Torrington on Hwy 26 BROTT’S RV PARK - (307) 837-2299 or (307) 575-0859

HAWK SPRINGS

32 miles south of Torrington on Hwy 85 STATE RECREATION AREA - (307) 777-7011 or (307) 836-2334

LODGING TORRINGTON AMERICA'S BEST VALUE INN - (307) 532-7118 or (866) 506-8181 BLUE LANTERN MOTEL - (307) 532-8999 DAYS INN - (307) 532-4011 HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS - (307) 532-7600 or 1-800-HOLIDAY GRANDMA'S INN - (307) 532-4064

FORT LARAMIE REAL MCCOY MOTEL - (307) 837-2100 or (307) 575-2669

BED & BREAKFASTS LAGRANGE

THE BEAR CREEK INN - (307) 834-2398

TORRINGTON

TEA KETTLE RANCH BED & BREAKFAST - (307) 532-5375 COUNTRY VILLA GUEST HOUSE - (307) 532-7414 or (307) 575-1188