Destination Western Nebraska Official 2020 Travel Guide

Find your next

ADVENTURE.

WestNebraska.com 1.866.684.4066

2 • Destination western nebraska 2020

No, it’s not Chimney Rock, it’s just a stop sign. But when you take a right at that stop sign the highway takes you to Lake Minatare where later this summer Bobby Johnson will catch his first fish, stay up late, make s’mores, and sleep in a tent.

To get back there next summer he’s gonna need to make sure his dad takes a right at this very stop sign so he can do it all again. Landmarks are more than just Chimney Rock and Scotts Bluff.

Landmarks are how we find our way to new memories.

Visit Nebraska’s Landmark Country.

Visit Nebraska’s Landmark Country.

800-788-9475 | NebraskaLandmarkCountry.com

westNebraska.com • 3

Sponsored Content

ole’s big game steakhouse Rosser “Ole” Herstedt was a Paxton native who started a bar the very night that Prohibition ended in 1933. The bar’s name, of course, was Ole’s. Ole worked long hours to feed, and provide drink for, the town’s guests.

But he always left time for hunting. In 1938, he bagged a big white tail buck and hung the mount in the bar. Nobody could have suspected where that would lead.

Over the next few years, Ole embarked on a hobby of big game hunting that took him to every continent. For 35 years, he brought his trophy mounts home and hung them above the bar tables and booths. A moose from Canada came to Paxton; a black bear from Alaska; a red fox from England; even a python from Honduras. Eventually, over 200 trophies were on display, and Ole’s Bar became one of the most unusual farm town taverns in America.

In 1969, Ole shot a polar bear on Russia’s Chukchi Sea while hunting on a 70-acre ice flow. A full mount of the huge white bear was brought back to the bar and put on display just inside the door. Within four years of that hunt Ole quit his hunting trips. But he continued to run the bar.

4 • Destination western nebraska 2020

In 1988, when he was 87, Ole decided he’d had enough. Tim Holzfaster, a 28-year-old Paxton native, called to ask if Ole’s was indeed closing. “He told me he couldn’t find anybody local to buy the business.” Holzfaster said. A few weeks later, he became the second owner of the business in 53 years.

“There’s nothing fancy about Ole’s.

We just try to provide good food and good service.”

—Tim Holzfaster Holzfaster created a family-friendly atmosphere at Ole’s. But the polar bear stayed.

So did the Canadian moose and Ole’s other trophies. Holzfaster was determined from the start not to let Ole’s Bar become touristy.

“There’s nothing fancy about Ole’s,” he said. “We just try to provide good food and good service.”

Holzfaster eventually bought the adjacent bars, and used much of the old décor and furnishings of these businesses in a redo, but he opened walls between the three side-byside lounges, which greatly expanded Ole’s seating capacity. He also restored a big dance hall above Swede’s for prom parties, wedding dances, banquets and meetings.

Ole’s is open every day of the year except Christmas. Holzfaster isn’t able to travel like his predecessor, but he does get away.

America’s hunting tradition and love for the land explain the unusual steakhouse. But why Paxton? Two reasons: Ole Herstedt and Tim Holzfaster.

123 N Oak St. Paxton, NE 69155 olesbiggame.com 308.239.4500

Sponsored Content

Golden Spike Tower, 1249 N Homestead Rd, North Platte NE The yard has always been massive, ever

ground, the yard really comes alive. The

grab a great selfie shot and hear the

since it was built in the 1800s and people

angles and "lay of the land" really makes

retarders as the screeching of the train

have always wanted to see the operations,

you feel like you are right there next the

wheels below sound.

so years ago train fans would stand on a

tracks. You can watch the rail cars roll

small platform to get their “fix” of train

down the mounds, through what is called

In addition to the action of the yard, you

watching. As the crowds grew larger, a

the "hump process." You can see the cars

don’t want to miss the incredible stories of

riser was added for those wanting to spend

being sorted in over 100 “bowl” tracks,

the Orphan Train, the North Platte Canteen

some quality time watching the cars being

with miles and miles of rail cars. You can

of World War II or the gift giving of the

sorted and humped through the yard. This

easily get lost watching the traffic and

Merci Train. These stories really tug on

platform, maybe four feet off the ground,

guessing what commodities are in each rail

the heart strings when you think of all the

offered a bit of a glimpse of the operation

car; tennis shoes, Christmas trees, brand

people over the years who were adopted

but only add more questions and a bigger

new vehicles, apples, maple syrup, coal or

from a train ride or received a hero’s

maybe, lumber. Your imagination truly

welcome, when they needed it most.

can run wild, and it would be correct too!

There’s a real human side behind the steal

In the 1990’s a group of community

Trains really do carry so many different

and smoke.

leaders, along with Union Pacific

things; your guess can be as good as ours!

thirst for watching the trains.

A stop to “the Tower” is not complete

management and city officials, came together to start the discussions and

Since opening in the summer of 2008, the

without a browse through the colorful gift

planning process for a safer

Golden Spike Tower welcomes over

store, with such an array of unique items

and more pleasurable viewing experience; with an ultimate goal to provide an educational and entertaining tourist attraction overlooking Bailey Yards.

“VERY UNEXPECTED JEWEL IN THE MIDDLE OF NEBRASKA!” ~ Gary, from Indiana

30,000 guests from

for kids, adults, men and women. There

all over the world,

really is something for everyone and a lot

annually. Each

of items you can’t find anywhere else.

year a new map is put out where guests can mark where they are from. It's

The doors are open daily, except for winter holidays; Thanksgiving, Christmas, New

inspiring to see where all these railfans visit

Years & Easter, Twilight Tours on the third

Stretching over eight miles long and over

from. Some guests are not even aware they

Saturday of each month and other special

two miles wide, Baily Yard is truly

are rail fans until they visit. Sure there are

events throughout the year, making a visit

“massive” with over 2,850 acres. In 1995,

the true "ferroequinologists," who know all

to this “one-of-a-kind” attractions even

the Guinness World Records officials came

the ins and outs of the rail yard and even

more special. It really is a site to see, and

to North Platte and deemed Bailey Yard,

bring their own scanners to hear the yard,

you don’t have worry about the splinters of

the “World’s Largest Classification Yard.”

then there are the ones who are just enough

a wooden riser and four-foot platform, the

A distinction that continues today. Nearly

curious to stop, but no worries, guides are

tower upgrade is well worth the stop!

10,000 rail cars are humped daily, being

on the 8th floor are there to help even the

sorted for new destinations on the nearly

most novice guests learn about the

GoldenSpikeTower.com

400 miles of tracks laid within the yard.

operation and how the yard works. These

308.532.9920

guides, typically former Union Pacific In June of 2008, the then Governor Dave

employees, truly have the gift to gab and

Heineman joined the Golden Spike Tower

the knowledge to share. They add the

board members, North Platte city officials

personality to a concrete building. By the

and Union Pacific management on the first

time you are done with them, you will be

ride up the elevator the eighth-floor

ready to drive a train, well maybe after a

viewing deck. From 104 feet off the

stop on the 7th floor open-air balcony to

westNebraska.com • 5

Western Nebraska

Tourism Coalition Professional services offices Chairman – Brenda Leisy, Scotts Bluff County Vice Chairman – Mike Kesselring, Sioux County Secretary – Karla Niedan-Streeks, Gering Treasurer – Kirsten Parker, North Platte Address for the WNTC Professional Services Offices: 2930 Old Oregon Trail – Gering, NE 69341 1-866-684-4066 info@VisitWestNebraska.com www.WestNebraska.com

OMAha magazine advertising information 402-884-2000

subscribe online omahamagazine.com/subscribe Omaha Magazine, LTD. is a publishing company in Omaha that prints six publications created in-house: Omaha Magazine, OmahaHome, B2B Omaha, FamilyGuide, 60PLUS in Omaha Magazine, and The Old Market Directory.

Omaha Magazine also produces the annual Best of Omaha™ and Best of B2B™ contests, Faces of Omaha, and other custom publishing products.

Bike photo on cover by Corey Cain

6 • Destination western nebraska 2020

Table of Contents 8 master Map 10 Scenic Byways 12 tourism contact

information 14 Pine Ridge

22 info 17 Attractions 17 Chadron 20 Crawford 22 Harrison 22 Gordon 22 Hay Springs 22 Rushville 22 Ellsworth 26 Trails West 38 info 29 Attractions 29 Gering 32 Scottsbluff 33 Henry 33 Minatare 33 Morril 34 Mitchell 34 Bayard 35 Bridgeport 35 Broadwater 35 Lisco 37 Lewellen 37 Oshkosh

42 Wild West 52 info 47 Attractions 45 North Platte 46 Maxwell 46 Brady 47 Hershey 47 Sutherland 48 Sidney 49 Potter 49 Lodgepole 49 Dalton 49 Gurley 51 Lemoyne 51 Ogallala 51 Keystone 51 Paxton 51 Brule 51 Big Spings 52 Chappell 52 Kimball 52 Harrisburg

62 Sandhills &

Scenic Rivers

73 info 67 Attractions 65 Mullen 66 Alliance 67 Hemingford 68 Hyannis 68 Ashby 68 Seneca 68 Thedford 68 Halsey 68 Tryon 68 Arthur 70 Valentine 70 Merriman 70 Nenzel & Cody

westNebraska.com • 7

From Rapid City & Black Hills

Sidney-Deadwood Trail

Whiteclay

Ogalala National Grassland

37 min.

Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center

Hudson-Meng Bison Bonebed

Fort Robinson State Park

Museum of the Fur Trade

26 min.

Soldier Creek Wilderness

Harrison

Chadron

Crawford

20

28 min.

Agate Fossil Beds National Monument

Pine Ridge Mountain Bike Trail

ic R i S c en Nio b r a r a

Hemingford

87

26 min.

Hemingford to chadron

Goldrush Byway

51 min.

Hemingford to Crawford

Mormon Trail Riverside Discovery

Gering

Carhenge “Old Jules” Sandoz Grave Site Dobby Frontier Town

92

Chimney Rock Pony Express Station 27 min Gering to Bayard

2

Ellsworth

43 min.

Bridgeport State Recreation Area

Bayard

Bayard Chimney Rock Museum

Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Northport Pioneer Trails Museum

61

Broadwater

92

88

Arthur

Wes te

Court House and Jail Rocks

rn T rails

27

Byw

ay

Lisco Nor

th P

71

Prairie Schooner Museum

Dalton

latt

eR

Historical Museum

ive

53 min.

r

Oshkosh

385

26

Bushnell 30

F

Plains Historical Museum

18 min

ne heyen rom C

18 min.

Gurley

Kimball

Hyannis

27

1 hr.

3 min

Oliver Reservoir Recreation Area

Whitman

Ashby

Bingham

62A

Chimney Rock Bridgeport National Historic Site

Harrisburg Banner County Historical Museum

Lakeside

26 min.

34 min.

Robidoux Trading Post & Pioneer Graves

McGrew

Wildcat Hills Nature Center

Antioch

Alliance

Lake Minatare State Recreation Area North Platte Wildlife Refuge

Minatare

Melbeta

Legacy of the Plains Museum

250

385

Scottsbluff Scottsbluff

Scotts Bluff National Monument Five Rocks Amphitheater

1 hr.

Lake Minatare Lighthouse

14 min. Center 7 min.

Mitchell to Scottsbluff Scottbluff to Gering

92

61

Smith Lake Wildlife Management Area

Carnegie Arts Center Sallows Military Museum and Conservatory

26

1 hr.

10 min.

Berea

71

Midwest Theater

13 min.

ve r

44 min.

Hemingford to chadron

Knight Museum

Mitchell

27

Rushville

2

1 hr. 27 min.

Scottsbluff to Crawford

Henry Morrill

16 min.

53 min.

Box Butte Reservoir

1

29

Metcalf Wildlife Management Area

Walgren Lake State 87 Recreation Area

Marsland

1 hr.

17 min

30 min.

385

2

20

Clinton

Hay Springs

Chadron State Park

Nebraska National Forest

Fort Laramie to Fort Robinson Trail

Oregon Trail

Gordon

20 min.

Eli

Arthur Bowring Ranch State Historical Park

Tri-State Old Time Cowboy Museum

87

Whitney

High Plains Homestead Trailside Museum

Warbonnet Battlefield

Merriman

White River

Toadstool Geologic Park

Dix Duckpin Bowling Alley

71

Tri-State Marker Nebraska’s Highest Point Panorama Point

Railroad Museum Potter L inco 39 min

27

Fort Sidney Post Commander’s Home

ln By way 80

Sidney

Pony Express National Monument 16 min

Lorenzo

19

30

Lodgepole Depot Museum

Sunol

Hillside Golf Cabela’s Retail Store Course and Wildlife Exhibit

Haythorn 92

Ash Hollow State Historical Park

L a ke 44 min.

50 min.

Lodgepole Chappell

30 min. Sidney to Chappell

Bergstrom Rock & Gem Collection

Lewellen

1

California Hill Historical Marker

Sudman-Neumann Heritage House Big Springs

30

McCo

naug

Kingsley Dam/ Hydro Plant

hy

Brule Ogallala 80

39 min.

Ogallala to Chappell

Boot Hill Little Church of Keystone Roscoe

Mansion on the Hill

Front Street Petrified Wood Gallery

61 30 min.

Prehistoric Wonders Settling the west The Great OutDoors Pioneer trails One-of-a-Kinds Unique Geology Welcome Centers/Rest Areas 8 • Destination western nebraska 2020

Madrid

Scenic Byways

Brandon

(see page 11)

Bridges to Buttes Byway- Hwy 20 Valentine to WY Border 385 Gold Rush Byway - Hwys 385 & 87 Sidney to Chadron Sandhills Journey Scenic Byway - Hwy 2 East from Alliance Western Trails Byway - Hwy 26 Ogallala to WY Border Lincoln Highway - Hwy 30 East of Brady to WY Border

15 min.

Grant

57 min.

Grant to Dickens

MOUNTAIN Cody

CENTRAL TIME

Kilgore

Nenzel

Cherry County Historical Museum Crookston

Smith Falls State Park Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge

Valentine Niobrara National River

97

Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest

Sparks

12

Niobara National Scenic Riv er

Need to know information Road Conditions

Snake River Falls

For Nebraska winter travel conditions, call (800) 906-9069. To check with the Nebraska Department of Roads, visit www.511nebraska.org, or call 511. (if calling from Nebraska)

Merritt Reservoir State Recreation Area Snake River

S16B

Valentine National Wildlife Refuge

1 hr.

15 min.

North Loup River

Information centers

All major communities have tourist information centers, as do some rest areas along 1-80.

83

Middle Loup River

L oup River

Mullen

Sandhills Byway

2

Time Zones

Seneca

45 min.

Thedford

29 min.

Tanking on the Middle Loup and Dismal River

While North Platte and Valentine are in the Central Time zone, most of Western Nebraska is on Mountain Time, which is an hour earlier. Check the map to be sure of the time at your destination.

18 min.

Thomas County Historical Museum

Halsey 2

Dismal River

Nebraska National Forest

55 min.

Airports

Western Nebraska has airports with airline service to and from Denver at Alliance, (308) 762-4512; Chadron, (308) 432-0505; North Platte, (800) 864-8331; and Scottsbluff.

(308) 635-4941

83

Tryon

92

Ringold Stapleton 29 min.

92

Regional Intercity Bus Services

54 min.

97

Sutherland Paxton

Buffalo Bill State Historical Park Hershey

30

The Rail Road Museum

North Platte

Golden Spike Tower & Visitors Fort Cody Center Trading Post

Sutherland Ole’s Big Game Steakhouse & Lounge Reservoir 47 min.

Ogallala to North Platte

Brady 30 From

Om aha

Mormon Trail

Oregon Trail

Dickens Wallace

80

Pine Ridge

40 min.

North Platte to Dickens

Grainton

Maxwell

Fort McPherson National Cemetery

Lake Maloney

25

Elsie

Panhandle Trails Intercity Public Transit is based in Alliance. The bus fleet connects travelers with their desired Western Nebraska destinations. (308) 761-8747

32 min.

23

Sandhills & Scenic Rivers Trails West Wild West

83

MOUNTAIN

CENTRAL TIME

westNebraska.com • 9

Scenic byways

For more information turn to page 12

PICTURED ABOVE: SANDHILLS JOURNEY SCENIC BYWAY, BRIDGES TO BUTTES BYWAY, LINCOLN HIGHWAY SCENIC BYWAY, HWY 83 10 • Destination western nebraska 2020

Escapethe grind & travel Western Nebraska’s 5 Scenic byways.

1 3

20

2

22

Chadron

5

6

4

21

Valentine

Bridges to Buttes Byway

7

Crawford

20

385

385 Gold Rush Byway Scottsbluff & Gering 11

12

13

Kimball

10

8

9

Alliance

Sandhills Journey Scenic Byway

Mullen

Thedford 20

14

26

92

Oshkosh 30

2

385

15

Sidney 0

87

16

Western Trails Scenic &Historic Byway 17

18

30

Miles

Ogallala

30

19

North Platte

Lincoln Highway Scenic & Historic Byway 75

Follow our scenic byways

AND VISIT THESE EXCITING ATTRACTIONS ALONG THE WAY:

1 Toadstool Geologic Park 2 High Plains Homestead 3 Hudson-Meng Education and Research Center 4 Fort Robinson State Park 5 Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center 6 Museum of the fur Trade 7 Chadron State Park 8 Carhenge 9 Alliance Historic Main Street 10 Alliance Central Park Fountain 11 Scotts Bluff National Monument

12 Riverside Discovery Center 13 Chimney Rock 14 Courthouse Rock and Jail Rock 15 Cabela’s 16 National Pony Express Monument 17 Ash Hollow State Historical Park 18 Lake McConaughy 19 Buffalo Bill State Historical Park 20 Nebraska National Forest Bessey Ranger District 21 Niobrara National Scenic River 22 Bowring Ranch State Historical Park westNebraska.com • 11

Tourism CONTACT INFORMATION

Traveling Nebraska’s Western Frontier can be the adventure of a lifetime. All year round, quality merchants, entertaining attractions and exciting events await those seeking to explore the West. If you need a little help planning your trail, the helpful folks below would be delighted to throw you a rope or proudly tell you all about what makes their communities and the region such a special place in which to live, work, explore and play.

Alliance

Kimball

Sidney

Box Butte Development Corporation (308) 762-1800 Visitalliance.com

Kimball Area Tourism (308) 241-0573 Visitkimball.com

Sidney/Cheyenne County Tourism (308) 254-4030 VisitSidneyNE.com

Bayard

Mitchell

Sutherland

Bayard City Office (308) 586-1121 Cityofbayard.net

Mitchell Chamber of Commerce (308) 623-1523 Mitchellcity.net

Sutherland Chamber of Commerce (308) 386-4617 Villageofsutherland.com

Big Springs

Morrill

Thedford

Big Springs Chamber of Commerce (308) 889-3212 Ci.big-springs.ne.us

Morrill Community Development Group (308) 247-3132 Villageofmorrill.com

Thomas County Tourism (308) 645-2715 Tourthomascountynebraska.com

Bridgeport

Mullen

Valentine

Morrill County Visitors Committee (308) 262-1825 Morrillcounty.net

Hooker County Visitors Committee (308) 546-0636 Co.hooker.ne.us

Cherry County Visitors Committee (402) 376-2969 Visitvalentine.org

Chadron

North Platte

Dawes County Travel Board (308) 432-3006 Discovernwnebraska.com

North Platte/Lincoln County Visitors Bureau (800) 955-4528 Visitnorthplatte.com

Chappell

Ogallala

Deuel County Tourism (308) 464-0983 Visitdeuelcounty.com

Keith County Visitors Committee (800) 658-4390 Ilovelakemac.com

Crawford

Oshkosh

Crawford Chamber of Commerce (308) 665-1817 Crawfordnebraska.info

Garden County Visitors Committee (308) 778-9557 Visitgardencounty.com

Gering

Potter

Gering Visitors Bureau (800) 245-0717 Visitgering.com

Potter Community Improvement Group (308) 879-4451 Potterne.com

Gordon

Rushville

Gordon Chamber of Commerce (308) 282-0730 Gordonchamber.com

Sheridan County Tourism (308) 282-0730 Visitsheridancounty.com

Hemingford

Scottsbluff

Village of Hemingford (308) 487-3465 Ci.hemingford.ne.us

Scotts Bluff Area Visitors Bureau (308) 633-1808 Visitscottsbluff.com

12 • Destination western nebraska 2020

Byways CONTACTS Hwy 2

Sandhills-Journey-Scenic Byway (308) 645-2715 Sandhillsjourney.com

Hwy 20 Bridges to Buttes Byway (800) 658-4024 Bridgestobuttes.com

Hwy NE 26/US O2 Western Trails Historic & Scenic Byway (308) 284-4066 (Ogallala) (308) 436-6886 (Gering)

Hwy 385 Gold Rush Byway (308) 254-4030 Sidneycheyennecountytourism.com

Hwy 30 Nebraska Lincoln Highway Historic Byway (800) 955-4528 Lincolnhighwaynebraskabyway.com

to Authors DISCOVER MORE IN SHERIDAN COUNTY Coming in late 2020, a 35 mile expansion of Nebraska’s first state recreation trail. Come ride, run and take in the view on Cowboy Trail West from Sheridan County to Dawes County. Travel the Mari Sandoz Trail to explore the childhood sites of author Mari Sandoz. Visit museums and schoolhouses and learn the tales of the infamous gunmen and outlaws like Doc Middleton. Book your western vacation today!

ATTRACTIONS

• • • • •

Mari Sandoz Trail Potash Plant Ruins Camp Sheridan Spade Ranch Historical Marker Scamahorn Museum by appointment Call 308-360-0900 to schedule • Tri-State Old Time Cowboys’ Memorial Museum - Sun-Sat, 1-5 pm • Sheridan County Historical Museum Mon-Fri, 9 am-12 pm, 1-5 pm

• Heritage Museum - Mon-Fri, 1-4 pm • Schoolhouse Museum by appointment Call 308-762-2949 to schedule • WWII Balloon Bomb Historical Site

EVENTS

• • • • •

LODGING

• • • •

Nebraskaland Motel Antlers Motel Jefco Inn Western Sands Motel

BBQ Ribs Cook off in Rushville • June Sheridan County Fair • July 18-26 Hay Springs Friendly Festival • Aug. 29-30 Fun Days in Rushville • Sept. 5, 6, & 7 Gordon’s Willow Tree Festival • Sept. 12-13

PO Box 485 • Rushville, NE • 308-282-0730 • visitsheridancounty.com

westNebraska.com • 13

14 • Destination western nebraska 2020

CHADRON • CRAWFORD HARRISON • RUSHVILLE GORDON • HAY SPRINGS ELLSWORTH

A FEAST FOR THE SENSES

The general consensus from people outside Nebraska is that it is flat and uninteresting.

But, believe it or not, it’s rather hilly. Scattered with pine forests and tree-covered ridges, the Pine Ridge is a rolling, rocky region where golden eagles soar overhead and nest on cliffs overlooking pastures of grazing longhorn cattle and bison.

It’s wide open. There is plenty of room here for people, too.

The Pine Ridge is roughly 20 miles wide and 100 miles long, and is a place where cowboys still ride off into the sunset. Breathing in the scenic, rugged beauty is a feast for the senses.

Pine Ridge National Recreation Area pictured left

Pine Ridge • WestNebraska.com • 15

You’re invited to visit the

Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center

The Very Best in

Family Dining

At Chadron State College 1000 Main, Chadron, Nebraska

Carmen and John Gottschalk Mari Sandoz Gallery

The Carmen and John Gottschalk Mari Sandoz Gallery tells the story of the life and literature of Mari Sandoz. The exhibit examines the topics of her writing – landscape, advocacy for Native Americans, writing style, and dedication to research – through the lens of her personal experience.

C.F. Coffee Gallery

The C. F. Coffee Gallery is dedicated to the history of Cattle Ranching on the High Plains. Exhibits in the gallery space begin with the movement of cattle from Texas to the High Plains, the open range era, and the transition to the ranching system we know today. The primary focus of the Gallery’s work has been collecting archival resources for use by the students at Chadron State College and researchers from around the world.

Your Time in Pine Ridge Country begins with a hearty meal from the award-winning Country Kitchen menu. From breakfast classics such as our premium omelettes to our All-American sandwich board, fresh salads and homemade soups, there is delicious food for every appetite. We invite you to relax in the lounge with your favorite beverage and enjoy the very best in family dining.

1250 W. 10th, Corner of Hwy 20 & 385

Chadron, NE • 308.432.5111

www.countrykitchenrestaurants.com

Heritage Gardens

The Heritage Gardens reflect the region’s prairie, native, and ranching cultures. The Gardens are a cultural, historical, and environmental learning space and consist of several collections: Old Jules’ Orchard Immigrant Plants Traditional Plants of the Lakota The Sandhills Collection Woody Plants of the Pine Ridge The Claude Barr Collection

Travel now. Travel often.

Explore

Northwest Nebraska

Free admission

Hours: Monday to Thursday: 10 a.m. to noon & 1 to 4 p.m.

Friday: 10 a.m. to noon.

Saturday: 10 a.m. to noon. & 1 to 3 p.m.

Sunday: Closed

“Down Home”

RANCH GUEST HOUSE 10 miles south of Crawford off HWY 2/71 Come Visit a cozy “Country Dream Home” surrounded by pine trees, canyons and abundant wildlife.

4 bedroom, 2 bath, fully furnished & equipped - sleeps 8-10 - big beautiful yard - inviting old 4-pillar porch.

602.620.5755 • sandyhamaker@hotmail.com downhomeranchhouse.com

16 • Destination western nebraska 2020

Pack your desire to explore Sioux County.

Leave room for the archaeological adventures, cowboy-sized meals and a one-of-kind, unforgettable experience. Set your expectations high - visit Nebraska’s Highest elevated town at 4,865ft DiscoverNWNebraska.com 308.432.3006

ormon Trail

regon Trail

From Rapid City & Black Hills

Sidney-Deadwood Trail

Whiteclay

Ogalala National Grassland

2

Warbonnet Battlefield

4 5

37 min.

Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center

3

Fort Robinson State Park 28 min.

Chadron 12

Whitney

8

High Plains 15 Homestead Soldier Creek Wilderness 7 Trailside Museum

Harrison

11

6

26 min.

6

Crawford

20

Fort Laramie to Fort Robinson Trail

9

1 1 hr.

17 min

51 min.

Hemingford to Crawford

29

Metcalf Wildlife Management Area

Hemingford

87

Rushville

13 min.

61 1 hr.

r 250

Smith Lake Wildlife Management Area

44 min.

Hemingford to chadron

Knight Museum

Sallows Military Museum and Conservatory

Carhenge

15 27 13 26 “Old Jules” Sandoz Grave Site 28 Dobby Frontier Town 14 Antioch

1 Agate Fossil Beds National Monument 9 Mountain Biking Alliance Lake Minatare 2 Oglala Grassland 10 Dawes County Historical Museum Riverside Discovery Henry National Lighthouse Morrill Center 16 10 385 High Plains Heritage Center 3 Toadsto0l Geologic Park 11 Mari Sandoz Mitchell 26 17 Scottsbluff Midwest Theater Lake Minatare State Recreation Area 4 Hudson-Meng Education & Research Center 12 Museum of the fur Trade 21 92 22 North Platte Wildlife Refuge Scotts Bluff 5 FossilNational Hunting 13 Metcalf WildLife Management Area Monument 18 62A Minatare Five Rocks Amphitheater Gering 6 Horseback Riding 19 14 Tri-stateBridgeport Old Time 92 StateCowboy Museum Melbeta Bayard Legacy of the Plains Museum Recreation Area 8 Bayard Chimney 7 Fort Robinson State Park McGrew Trailside Museum of Natural History Rock15 Museum Wildcat Hills 20 Chimney Rock Northport Nature Center Pony Express Station 23 16 8 High Plains Homestead Pioneer Trails Museum

Lakeside

26 min.

Chimney Rock Bridgeport National Historic Site 88

pg. 24

24

Court House and Jail Rocks

92

Ellsworth

Prehistoric Wonders Ashby Bingham Settling the west The Great OutDoors Pioneer trails One-of-a-Kinds Unique Geology Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge Welcome Centers/Rest Areas 25 2

W Hyannis

34 min.

7 min.

Scottsbluff to Gering

Robidoux Trading Post & Pioneer Graves

| Harrisburg Chadron

1 hr.

10 min.

2

Carnegie Arts Center

71

27 min Gering to Bayard

27

Berea

Attractions #PINE RIDGE 14 min.

Mitchell to Scottbluff

30 min.

53 min.

Box Butte Reservoir

1 hr. 27 min.

Scottsbluff to Crawford

13

16 min.

Walgren Lake State 87 Recreation Area

Pine Ridge Mountain Bike Trail

26 min.

Hemingford to chadron

Gordon

Clinton

ic R i v e S c en Nio b r a r a Marsland

14

20 min.

385

9

2

Agate Fossil Beds National Monument

Arthur Bowrin State Histori

Tri-State Old Time Cowboy Museum

87

Hay Springs

Chadron State Park

Nebraska National Forest

4

Museum of the Fur Trade

10

Goldrush Byway

Hudson-Meng Bison Bonebed

Merriman

White River

Toadstool Geologic Park

27

43 min.

61

Broadwater Wes te

rn T rails

16

Byw

Arthur 27

ay

Chadron’s early fur traders, cowboys, ranchand playground. Be careful with fireLisco in this at the Chadron Chamber of Commerce & Banner County 1 hr.

Historical Historical Museum orth ers and railroaders were3 minknown to get a little wooded area. Hike and bike trails Nspread in Visitor Center. Chadron State Park offers the Museum Pla 53 min. tte 71 Riv er 26 Dalton Schoonerdirection.

Museum rowdy from time to time. The once tiny frontier Prairieevery (308) 432-6167.

National Forest/Oglala National Grassland map Oshkosh 385 town has grown to 5,800 residents and 3,000 showing trails.18 min.

(800) 603-2937.

26 very well-behaved students at Chadron State Pine Ridge Ranger District of the Nebraska Lewellen 35 Gurley College.Oliver TheReservoir Dawes County community lies National Forest is 52,000 acres of Ponderosa Pine Ridge National Recreation Area is a Ash Hollow 92 Recreation Area Plains Historical Museum State Historical Park 27 L a ke Railroad pine and mixed grass prairies. Primitive campbetween and scenicMuseum 6,600-acre parcel limited to non-motorized McCo Bushnellthe forested Kingsley D 27 Kimball Pine Ridge naug Dix Fort Sidney Post hy Hydro Pla Potter 29 L 44 min. i n c o Commander’s Home High Plains. ing is allowed.

The Red Cloud Campground recreation.

There are corrals, a rider ramp, l Lodgepole Depot Museum n 34 30 Bywa 18 min 50 min. y 30 Duckpin 80 40 39 min has picnic tables, fire gratesSunol and vault toilets; modern toilets and drinkable water. Hiking, Bowling Sidney Boot Hill 30 Alley Lodgepole e Rosc 31 nnChadron e California Hill y e State Park was Nebraska’s first state it is 8 miles south of Chadron on Highway 385. horseback riding and mountain biking are Ogallala h Cabela’s Retail Store 32 om C Historical Marker Hillside 71 Chappell and Wildlife Exhibit Brule Sudman-Neumann Golf min park. Founded in 1921, it encompasses nearly Marked16trails, about 80 miles worth, appeal to allowed.

The recreation area and trailhead are33 30 min.

Sidney to Chappell Front Stre Course Pony Express Heritage House Big Springs 30 80 Tri-State Marker Bergstrom Rock & 19 Mansion on National Monument 1,000Nebraska’s acres of Pine Ridge public land nine miles mountain bikers, hikers and horseback riders. connected by the scenic 3 Mile Loop.

Petrified Wo 1 Highest Point 39 min.

Gem Collection Lorenzo the Hill Ogallala to Gallery 28 of Chadron on Highway 385. The park Chappell south The area’s most popular trailheads include 61 offers fishing, camping, hiking, mountain biking, East Ash, West Ash, Soldier Creek, Spotted Tail, The best entry point to the Pine Ridge National 30 min. bird watching and horseback riding. Cabins are Roberts and Outrider. Roberts and Outrider Recreation Area is from the Roberts trailhead, available April 15-Nov. 15. A swimming pool trailheads have horse corrals and a rider ramp. eight miles west of Chadron on Highway 20 to and sand volleyball courts elevate the fun, and Off-road vehicles must be equipped with spark Eleson Road, then 7 miles south toBrandon Bethel Road Grant mountain bikes and paddle boats are available arrestors to reduce wildfire danger. Maps of and then 1 ½ miles east.

15 min. for rent. The RV campground has 70 electrical the Pine Ridge Trails system and the National hookups, showers, laundromat, dump station Forest/Oglala National Grassland are available

»

Pine Ridge • WestNebraska.com • 17

DISCOVER Sioux County’s rich history A great place to visit in Nebraska’s top town.

Out of the Way and Out of the Ordinary!

Open Memorial Day-Labor Day

Your next group event destination location!

Welcome to the Homestead!

308.668.2110 South Main St Harrison, NE

1-308-665-2592

highplainshomestead.com

S Sioux County C Museum JUNE THROUGH SEPTEMBER

Stay at the historic Harrison House Hotel

Chadron’s Favorite Coffee shop

Start your day at The Daily Grind with specialty coffees, lattes, teas, soups and sandwiches.

308-430-2790 • 219 Main St. • Chardon, NE

Built in 1886 by the railroad, the hotel had 9 rooms and 3 shared bathrooms upstairs. Enjoy a continental breakfast daily and Sunday Buffet. Call to book a room at this unique and friendly place! harrisonhousehotel.net 308.665.5199 • 115 Main St. • Harrison

Dawes County Historical Museum Come and take a walk through the history of Dawes County and the surrounding areas.

Antiques and uniques of all kinds. Over 200,000 documents for the genealogist and history buff.

Located 3 miles south of Chadron on HWY 385 Monday - Saturday 10am - 4pm Sundays & Holidays 1pm - 5pm

Follow the tracks... of fur traders through history

EXPLORE THE LIFE AND TIMES of the traders and trappers who helped to open a continent, and the Indians with whom they traded.

The Museum of the Fur Trade brings the story of the first business in North America to life in the world’s finest exhibit of its kind.

Open daily May 1-Oct 31 • 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

By appointment during winter season Admission $5 for adults furtrade.org museum@furtrade.org 308.432.3843

18 • Destination western nebraska 2020

fort robinson

« Museum

of the Fur Trade is the only museum in the world dedicated exclusively to the fur trade era. It is 3 miles east of Chadron on Highway 20 at the site of a trading post operated by the American Fur Co. from 1837 to 1876. The building has been reconstructed on the original foundation. The museum’s three galleries interpret the fur trade industry from the American Southwest to the Arctic, from early colonial days to the 20th century.

Characters like horse thief “Doc” Middleton, a race favorite among Chadron residents, and William F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody were involved.

Dishonesty and cheating were exposed before the winner crossed the finish line 13 days later in Chicago at the World’s Fair. The Cowboy Trail east of Chadron covers part of the 1,000mile race route. The former Blaine Hotel is an apartment complex today. Pose for a selfie at 159 Bordeaux St.

Exhibits trace the everyday lives of British, French and Spanish traders, mountain men, buffalo hunters and plains and woodland Indians. Among the museum’s artifacts are trade goods from the 18th and 19th centuries—such as “Northwest” muskets made for Native Americans (including one that belonged to the famous Shawnee chief, Tecumseh), trade silver, textiles, beads and paints. Open May 1-Oct. 31 or by appointment. (308) 432-3843.

Dawes County Historical Museum—located 3 miles south of Chadron on Highway 385—has an original log house and barn, schoolhouse, church, blacksmith shop, vintage toy collection and the many innovative inventions of local farmer Marcus Cain. Research is their specialty.

Open Memorial Day-Sept. 30. (308) 432-4999.

In 1980, after the Wounded Knee Massacre, Gen. Nelson Miles commandeered the Chadron House while investigating the incident. The luxury hotel was the town’s showplace. Today, it is restored to its former glory and operates as Olde Main Street Inn. The inn offers lodging and dining and includes the 77 Longbranch Saloon. 115 Main St. (308) 432-3380.

When the Chadron-to-Chicago Horse Race began in 1893, it did so with a shot fired by Chadron’s fire chief using a Colt revolver from the veranda of the Blaine Hotel. The event began as a joke, but then came to fruition, garnering attention from around the world.

Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center is dedicated to the study of Nebraska and High Plains culture, literature and history. Located in Chadron State College, the center is named after Mari Sandoz (1896-1966), one of Nebraska’s best-known authors. Sandoz gained national prominence with her 1935 biography of her father, Old Jules. Sandoz wrote powerfully of Plains subjects such as Crazy Horse, the Cheyenne Outbreak, buffalo hunters and homesteaders. (308) 432-6401.

For more information about Chadron and Northwest Nebraska, contact Chadron Chamber of Commerce & Visitor’s Center at (308) 432-4401 or (308) 432-3006.

Chadron events

2020 Events FESTIVAL OF QUILTS

April 24-26. Learn about quilts with lectures, demonstrations, appraisals, feature quilters and a large trunk show at Assumption Arena.

(308) 615-9008.

FUR TRADE DAYS July 8-12. Join the celebration commemorating America’s fur trade heritage and Museum of the Fur Trade. Events include a buckskinner camp, historic presentations, Traders Market and parade. (308) 432-4401

DAWES COUNTY FAIR July 24-August 1. Enjoy livestock shows, 4-H projects, tractor pull, rodeos, Tough Truck contest, games, sports tournaments and concerts.

(308) 432-3373.

BANDS ON BORDEAUX July. The 100 block of Bordeaux Street is the place to be on Thursday evenings in July when music, food, drink and vendors mix downtown.

(308) 432-4401.

BAND OF CITIZENS’ OPEN MIC NIGHT Meet at Bean Broker Coffeehouse & Pub every Wednesday evening at 7:30 p.m. for food, drink and singing with a real backup band. This is not karaoke, but it is loads of fun. 202 W. Second St. (308) 432-4500.

Pine Ridge • WestNebraska.com • 19

Old West Trail PRCA Rodeo 74th Anniversary Crawford, NE

Crawford |

pg. 23

Crawford is known as the “Big Game Capital of Nebraska.” Located in the heart of the Pine Ridge, whitetail and mule deer, antelope, elk and bighorn sheep whet the appetites of hunters scouting for wild game. You never know when a shot at a legendary animal will present itself.

Northwest Nebraska High Country is a group of rural families opening their unique private properties as places to stay, ride and hunt. www. nebraskahighcountry.com Legend Buttes Golf Course was once named Nebraska’s top nine-hole course by Nebraska Golfer magazine. Even if your game is over par, the view here is stunning.

Photos by Katie Cain (top & bottom right) and Moni Hourt (bottom left)

July 1st—Jr King and Jr Princess contest at 9 am • Kids Fun Day Rodeo at 10 am July 3rd & 4th— 8 pm Performance Each Night July 4th—Fireworks Display Following the Rodeo The only PRCA rodeo in the state of Nebraska over the 4th of July and part of the PRCA Cowboy Christmas run. The 3rd eldest in the state.

Ticket locations in Crawford and Chadron . owtrodeo.com PRODUCED IN PART BY A GRANT FROM THE DAWES COUNTY TRAVEL BOARD

It’s All Yours at Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands

History abounds in Crawford. The Army scout known as Little Bat was killed on Main Street.

The Crawford Historical Museum chronicles this history and more at 341 Second St. (308) 665-1732.

Down Home Ranch Guest House is located 10 miles south of Crawford on the Pine Ridge near Belmont. This 100+ year-old home is fully equipped with everything a guest may need for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, and offers hunting for deer and turkey.

White River Gallery features local artists, and offers art workshops and youth camps in this renovated former bakery. 425 Second St. (308) 430-5882.

Fort Robinson State Park is 3 miles west of Crawford on Highway 20. It began in 1874 as a military camp at the Red Cloud Indian Agency.

The park is Nebraska’s largest state park.

Lakota warrior Crazy Horse surrendered here in 1877. Two years later, the fort was involved with the Cheyenne Outbreak. Northern Cheyenne fled their Oklahoma reservation but were caught and imprisoned at Fort Robinson. One night in January 1879, 130 Northern Cheyenne escaped.

Sixty-four Cheyenne and 11 soldiers died in the fighting. The Northern Cheyenne Breakout Monument stands west of Fort Robinson near Cheyenne Buttes.

GET OUTSIDE. Enjoy 1.2 million acres in western Nebraska and South Dakota to hike, bike and picnic! Visit our Hudson-Meng Education and Research Center to see prehistoric bison bonebeds. Explore Toadstool Geologic Park, “Nebraska’s badlands.”

Call 308-432-0300 or go to www.fs.usda.gov/nebraska for details 20 • Destination western nebraska 2020

Visitors can enjoy cookouts, trail rides, hiking and a summer repertory theater at the Post Playhouse. There’s lodging in officers' houses, camping at 100 sites with electricity and also 25 non-electrical pads.

Fort Robinson is open mid-April through mid-November. A state park entry permit is required.

(308) 665-2900.

Fort Robinson History Center traces fort history from the Indian Wars through the 1940s.

(308) 665-2919. Trailside Museum of Natural History explores the area’s geology and natural history. Don’t miss the “Clash of the Mammoths” exhibit. A pair of bull mammoths locked tusks more than 10,000 years ago and died together. Their fossilized skeletons lie in display at the museum. (308) 665-2929.

Soldier Creek Wilderness was once part of the military reservation. Today, the 7,794-acre area has 14 miles of twisting trails. Peterson State Wildlife Management Area is nearby, south of Highway 20.

From Red Cloud Buttes, you can see Crawford to the east, Fort Robinson to the south and the Red Cloud Agency site to the southeast. Six miles northeast of Crawford is the site of the Treaty Tree, where, in 1875, the U.S. government tried to buy the Black Hills from the Lakota.

Sioux and Crow warriors battled in 1849 at what is now known as Crow Butte. For the best view, travel 2 ½ miles south of Crawford, down highways 2 and 71, then four miles east to Ponderosa Wildlife Management Area. Falcons, mule deer and golden eagles are often seen here.

Take Highway 2 north to the Oglala National Grasslands, home of pronghorn, prairie dogs and a few rattlesnakes. See scenic vistas and terrain unlike anything else in Nebraska.

(308) 432-0300.

Toadstool Geologic Park is a unique landscape within the grassland. Sediment layers have eroded at different rates, leaving sandstone formations perched on clay stems that early visitors compared to the shapes of toadstools. The park has a hiking trail, picnic tables, campground and a reconstructed sod house.

Go 5 miles north from Crawford on Highway 2, then 10 miles northwest on Toadstool Road. Go slow, as the non-paved roads can be challenging, especially when wet.

The 10,000-year-old bones are still being studied in Hudson-Meng Education and Research Center. The facility is west of Toadstool Geologic Park. On Toadstool Road, turn on Sand Creek Road and go 6 miles west. Open mid-May through September. Allow meandering cattle and rattlesnakes the right of way.

(308) 665-3900.

toadstool national park

You’ll see a dusty frontier town along the way, High Plains Homestead features a blacksmith shop, antique store, historic schoolhouse and Dirty Creek Saloon. Lodging is available.

(308) 665-2592.

Our Heritage Guest Ranch provides lodging in a historic guest cottage and the nicely furnished loft of its barn, and offers fossil hunting, train watching, vacation packages and more near the Oglala National Grassland and Toadstool Geologic Park. (308) 430-1239.

The 750-foot-long Belmont Tunnel is no longer used by trains, but railroad enthusiasts watch trains climbing the 10-mile-long Crawford-to-Belmont grade south of Crawford on Highway 2.

For more information, contact the Crawford Chamber of Commerce at (308) 665-1817.

Crawford events

2020 Events RIDE THE RIDGE

June. See Fort Robinson by horseback during guided trail rides. Morning riders can share donuts and coffee with the Trail Bosses and fellow riders. Scenery and camaraderie overflow in this event. Find out more at www.facebook.com/RideTheRidge

CRAWFORD 4TH OF JULY PARADE, RODEO AND FIREWORKS July 3-4. The Pine Ridge’s only PRCA rodeo entertains all comers with thrilling visions of bucking broncos, bullish bulls, calf roping, food and product vendors and welcoming residents. www.owtrodeo.com

People thought rancher Albert Meng had found sheep bones. He and friend Bill Hudson invited scientists to take a look. It turned out the bones were the remains of more than 600 ancient bison.

Pine Ridge • WestNebraska.com • 21

Agate Fossil Beds National Monument

Harrison |

pg. 22

Harrison, south of the Oglala National Grassland, is the only incorporated community in Sioux County and is known as Nebraska’s “Top Town” because it has the highest elevation of any Nebraska community, Sioux County Historical Museum chronicles Sioux County from settlement through the 20th century with a schoolhouse, post office and more. Ask to see the museum’s rare hearse.

(308) 665-5175.

For a scenic drive, head north from town on Sowbelly Road. In 1876, the 5th U.S. Calvary clashed with Cheyenne at what is known as Warbonnet Battlefield. Buffalo Bill killed Yellow Hand here. Go 3 miles east of Harrison on Highway 20, then 16 miles north on Pants Butte Road, then 4 miles east on Montrose Road to see monuments north of the church.

Agate Fossil Beds National Monument is home to important Native American artifacts.

Visitors can walk among the fossils of ancient animals. Located 22 miles south of Harrison or 34 miles north of Mitchell on Highway 29.

(308) 436-9760.

Contact the Sioux County Travel and Visitors Board (308) 430-8493.

Harrison

HOTELS & MOTELS

Sage Motel, 398 E. US Hwy 20, Harrison www.sagemotelharrison.com

UNIQUE LODGING

Harrison

Hay Springs |

2020 Events

SIOUX COUNTY FAIR & RODEO July 24th-Aug. 2nd. Take in 4-H exhibits, livestock shows, an art show or the 5K race.

Entertainment includes rodeos, a demolition derby and the ever-popular hog wrestling for brave souls willing to jump in a mud pit and attempt the feat. (308) 668-2428

Gordon |

pg. 25

A willow tree known as a landmark to pioneers and Native Americans is where Gordon was founded. The tree along Antelope Creek is still alive. Cowboy artifacts from the late 1800s through today are displayed at Tri-State Old Time Cowboys Memorial Museum at Gordon City Park.

Scamahorn Museum is a restored 1880s church with military displays, Native American artifacts and genealogical records at Wayland Park.

The Mari Sandoz Memorial Drive begins at Gordon and leads to Mari’s Grave near the still-producing fruit orchards planted by her father, “Old Jules” Sandoz.

For info on Gordon call (308) 282-0730.

PHONE

ROOMS

308-665-5300

13

PHONE

pg. 25

A story in a 1922 issue of the Hay Springs News reported the sighting of a monster at Alkali Lake. We can’t confirm anything larger than big snapping turtles and catfish in the reservoir now named Walgren Lake. We do know that Walgren Lake State Recreation Area has camping, fishing and picnic areas. To find the lake, head south of Hay Springs on Highway 87 and follow the signs. To find the monster—well, you’re on your own.

Heritage Center I and Heritage Center II are in the 1884 Methodist Church in the 200 block of Baker Street, and in the building at Second and Main. (308) 27-2374.

Contact Hay Springs Chamber of Commerce at (308) 638-7275.

Rushville |

pg. 25

The Sheridan County Historical Museum showcases the colorful and important history of Camp Sheridan and the Spotted Tail Agency.

Highway 20 and Nelson Avenue.

Contact the Rushville Chamber of Commerce.

(308) 327-2221.

Ellsworth

Ellsworth, pop. 14, began in 1888 as Spade Ranch headquarters. A Historical Marker in town tells its epic story.

AMENITIES Restaurant on premises, pets allowed

AMENITIES

RATE RANGE 1-5 rate range

RATE RANGE

Harrison House Hotel, 115 Main St., Harrison www.harrisonhousehotel.net

308-668-2166

Restored historic hotel located in scenic Sioux County, rooms with shared bath, free continental breakfast

The Nest B&B Inn, 13 mi. N.E. of Harrison on Hat Creek Rd, www.restinthenest.com

308-432-4227

Fully furnished ranch home, sleeps 10, rooms with shared bath

CAMPGROUNDS

PHONE

OPEN

Corral Campground, 410 E. US Hwy 20, Harrison www.visitnorthwestnebraska.com

308-668-2441

Year Round

RV Amenities: electricity, water, sewer, room for 12 trailers

•

Pavement Ends Campground, 453 River Road Harrison, NE 69346

308-665-5524

Year Round

Full RV Hookups or Dry Camping www.discovernwnerbaska.com

•

22 • Destination western nebraska 2020

AMENITIES

50-100 75+

FEES

Crawford

HOTELS & MOTELS

PHONE

ROOMS

Fort Robinson State Park, 3200 Hwy 20, Crawford

308-665-2900

•

Hilltop Motel 304 McPherson St., Hwy 2 & US Hwy 20, Crawford

308-665-1144 800-504-1444

13

Pets allowed

51-75

Crawford Inn & RV 3591 US Hwy 20, Hwy 2 & US Hwy 20, Crawford

308-665-1450 800-903-1450

24

Wheelchair accessible, pets allowed

1-75+

UNIQUE LODGING

PHONE

AMENITIES

RATE RANGE

Restaurant on premises, indoor pool, pets allowed

AMENITIES

50-245+

RATE RANGE

Aunt Myrna’s Cabin, 903 Bethel Rd, 5 mi. S. of Hwy 20 between Chadron and Crawford aunt-myrnas-cabin.com

308-665-5050

Private cabin w/beds for 2 or 10, single bath w/shower, full kitchen w/outdoor BBQ, A/C + gas fireplace, wildlife, hiking, biking, hutning, photos unlimited

95+

Down Home Guest Ranch House 10 mi. S. of Crawford on Hwy 2/71 www.downhomeranchhouse.com

602-620-5755

Comfy old 2-story, 4 bedroom, 2 bath home fully furnished and equipped, big beautiful yard, gas grill, hunting, bird watching, stargazing, hiking, abundance of wildlife

Call for rates

High Plains Homestead 263 Sandcreek Rd., 16 mi. N., Crawford www.highplainshomestead.com

308-665-2592 888-365-2592

Wheelchair accessible, rooms with private bath, cowtown museum, lodging, horse corrals, hunting and fossil collecting, open mid-April through mid-November

51-75

Johnson Ranch, 220 Lawrence Rd, Whitney, 5 mi. N. of Crawford on Hwy 2, 2 mi. E., www.onelazyj.com

308-665-3960

Rooms with private bath, continental breakfast.

Horse rental, boarding, and hunting

51-75

Our Heritage 1041 Toadstool Rd, 16 mi. N.W. & 7 mi. N.W., Crawford www.vacation-ranch.com

308-665-2810

Wheelchair accessible, rooms with private and shared bath, full breakfast. Sleeps 15. Ranch activities, hiking and fossil hunting

1-75

Ponderosa Ranch, 10 mi. S.E. of Crawford www.ponderosaranch.net

308-628-7733

Private rustic cabin, full kitchen, BBQ, hunting, bird watching, star gazing. By reservation only.

75+

R Lazy J Country Hideaway, 1260 Bethel Rd, 7 mi. S. off Hwy 20, between Crawford and Chadron www.rlazyj.com

308-665-2377 308-430-0134

Private ranch house, 3 bedroom, 2 full baths, full kitchen, laundry. Great for families or individuals. Wildlife-watching, star gazing, exploring encouraged.

95+

Schoolhouse B&B, 1312 W. Ash Creek Rd., Crawford

308-665-1814

Cozy schoolhouse with private bath, full breakfast, bird watching, star gazing, hunting

Southside Cottage, 1107 Hospital Dr., Crawford

308-665-2309

Rooms with shared bath, 2-bedroom cottage

CAMPGROUNDS

51-75 75+

PHONE

OPEN

Crawford City Park, First & Main St., Crawford www.crawfordnebraska.net

308-665-1462

Year Round

Amenities - Four camping pads, 3 non-pad sites, all with electricity; Dispersed camping allowed.

•

Fort Robinson State Park 3200 W. US Hwy 20, Crawford www.outdoornebraska.ne.gov

308-665-2900

•

RV Amenities: electricity, water, sewer, room for 103 trailers. Rest facilities: showers, flush and pit toilets. Cabins: 34

12-21 100 cabin

Soldier Creek Wilderness Trailhead 6 mi. N.W. of Fort Robinson State Park, Crawford

308-432-0300

Year Round

RV Amenities: water. Rest facilities: pit toilets

8/vehicle

Southside Cottage and RV Park 1105 Hospital Dr., Crawford www.southsidecottage.com

308-665-2309

Apr. 1 Oct. 31

Toadstool Geologic Park Nebraska National Park, 19 mi. N.

308-432-0300

•

GOLF COURSES Legend Buttes Golf Course, 3440 US Hwy 20, Crawford 1/2 mi. W. on US Hwy 20

PHONE 308-665-2431

AMENITIES

FEES

RV Amenities: electricity, water, sewer, 4 trailers, Cabin Rental: 1 Room for 6 trailers, $5 camping, $3 use fee mid-May through mid-Nov.

HOLES & TYPE

Call for hours & tee times.

9, public

15-17 3-5 NE Park Permit

RATE RANGE Under 15

Pine Ridge • WestNebraska.com • 23

Chadron

HOTELS & MOTELS

PHONE

ROOMS

Best Western West Hills Inn 1100 W. 10th St., 1/2 mi. S Jct., US Hwys 20 & 385, Chadron, www.bestwesternnebraska.com

308-432-3305 877-432-3305

67

Wheelchair accessible, restaurant on premises, indoor pool, free continental breakfast, pets allowed

75+

Bunk House Motel 901 E. 3rd St., Chadron, www.bunkhousechadron.com

308-432-5591

21

Pets allowed

1-50

Grand Motel 1050 W US Hwy 20, Chadron, www.chadron.com

308-432-5595

45

Restaurant on premises, pets allowed

1-50

Holiday Inn Express 247 Ash St., Chadron

308-747-2223

•

Super 8 Motel 840 W. US Hwy 20, Chadron, www.chadron.com

308-432-4471 800-800-8000

45

Wheelchair accessible, indoor pool, free continental breakfast, pets allowed

51-75+

Travelodge 755 Microtel Dr., S. US Hwy 385 & 8th St. Exit, Chadron

308-646-3838

43

Amenities Kids stay free! Free morning coffee, expanded cable, coin laundry, and indoor pool; Wi-Fi access, refrigerators, and microwaves in every room

51-75

Westerner Motel 300 Oak St., W. US Hwy 20, Chadron www.chadron.com/business/westerner

308-432-5577 800-947-0847

27

Restaurant on premises, pets allowed

1-50

UNIQUE LODGING

PHONE

AMENITIES

•

AMENITIES

RATE RANGE

•

RATE RANGE

Aunt Myrna’s Cabin, 903 Bethel Rd., 5 mi. S. of Hwy 20 between Chadron and Crawford www.aunt-myrnas-cabin.com

308-665-5050

Private cabin w/beds for 2 or 10, single bath w/shower, full kitchen w/outdoor BBQ, A/C + gas fireplace, stars, wildlife, hiking, biking, hunting, photos unlimited

Northwest Nebraska High Country www.nebraskahighcountry.com

308-665-1580

There are 25 hunting lodges and bed and breakfast operations in this organization. Visit the website to view the list

Olde Main Street Inn 115 Main St., Chadron, www.chadron.com/oldemain

308-432-3380

Rustic country inn on National Register of Historic Places, rooms with private bath, full continental breakfast

R Lazy J Country Hideaway 1260 Bethel Rd., 7 mi. S. off Hwy 20, between Crawford and Chadron, www.rlazyj.com

308-665-2377 308-430-0134

Private ranch house, 3 bedroom, 2 full baths, full kitchen, laundry. Great for families or individuals. Wildlife watching, star gazing, exploring encouraged

Rocking Heart Elk Ranch 1138 Table Rd., Chadron, www.elkplanet.com

308-432-4314

2-story log cabin, wheelchair accessible, full breakfast

51-75

Victorian Inn B&B 307 Shelton St., Chadron www.chadronvictorianinn.com

308-432-5696

Built in 1910. High -speed Internet, grand piano, central A/C. Rooms with shared bath, full continental breakfast.

1-75

Shared Outdoors 10 Old Dunlap Rd., Hemingford www.sharedoutdoors.com

308-487-3426

Fully-equipped lodge with full kitchen, fireplace, laundry, WiFi, phone, satellite TV, 4 bedrooms able to sleep up to 12 people

CAMPGROUNDS

95+

75-110

1-75+

95+

Call for rates

PHONE

OPEN

AMENITIES

FEES

Chadron State Park 9 mi. S. on Hwy 385, Chadron www.outdoornebraska.gov

308-432-6167

Year Round

RV Amenities: electricity, water, room for 70 trailers Rest Facilities: Showers, flush and pit toilets. Camping: 18 tents, Cabin rentals

11-65 NE Park Permit

Eagle’s Nest RV Park 1/4 mi. W. on Hwy 20, Chadron

308-432-4349

Elec. Only winter

RV Amenities: electricity, water, sewer, room for 48 trailers. Rest facilities: showers, flush toilets. Camping: 20 tents

25

Red Cloud Campground Nebraska National Forest, 8 mi. S. on Hwy 385, Chadron www.fs.fed.us/r2/Nebraska

308-432-0300

Year Round

RV Amenities: room for 6 trailers Rest facilities: Pit toilets Camping: 7 tents

Roberts Trailhead Campground Nebraska National Forest, 18 mi. S.W. www.fs.fed/r2/nebraska

308-432-0300

Year Round

RV Amenities: water. Rest facilities: Pit toilets Horse corrals available

Shared Outdoors 30 Old Dunlap Rd., Hemingford www.sharedoutdoors.com

308-487-3426

•

RV Amenities: electricity, water, sewer, Rest facilities: showers, pit and flush toilets Camping: available

5 May-Nov.

8 vehicle, May-Nov.

20-40

Chadron Cont. » 24 • Destination western nebraska 2020

« Chadron Cont.

GOLF COURSES Ridgeview Country Club, 16611 US Hwy 385, Chadron

PHONE 308-432-4468

Gordon, Rushville, HOTELS & MOTELS

HOLES & TYPE

&

PHONE

Call for hours & tee times.

•

9 holes, semi-private Under 15

Hay Springs ROOMS

RATE RANGE

AMENITIES

RATE RANGE

Jefco Inn 308 S. Cornell, W. US Hwy 20, Gordon

308-282-2935

22

Wheelchair accessible, free continental breakfast, guest laundry

65+

Western Sands Motel 107 W. US Hwy 20, Gordon

308-282-1795

20

Wheelchair accessible, pets allowed, free wifi

55+

Antler’s Motel, 607 E. 2nd St., Rushville

308-327-2444

20

Free continental breakfast, pets allowed, Patio BBQ grill

Nebraskaland Motel, 508 E. 2nd St., Rushville

308-327-2487

15

Pets allowed, free wifi, large groups welcome, kitchenettes

UNIQUE LODGING

PHONE

AMENITIES

42-77 45+

RATE RANGE

Horse Thief Cave Ranch, 1711 550th Trail Rd., 15 mi.

S.E., Gordon, www.horsethiefcave.com

308-282-1017

Rooms with shared bath, continental breakfast

50+

Flying Heart Ranch LLC 6473 440th Ln., Hay Springs, www.flyingheartranch.com

308-638-7426

Rooms with shared bath, 3-bedroom, 2-bath cabin. Solitude, wildlife, hiking/biking trails

90+

Hay Springs Rentals, 213, 221 & 230 N. Post St. & 339 N. Chambers St., Hay Springs www.hayspringsrentals.com

308-638-4466

Rooms with private and shared bath. 3-bedroom houses with kitchens and living rooms

•

CAMPGROUNDS

PHONE

OPEN

Hamiton Park E. US Hwy 20, Gordon, www.ci.gordon.ne.us

308-762-3860

Apr.-Oct.

Tomahawk Park 200 W. US Hwy 20, Gordon, www.ci.gordon.ne.us

308-762-3763

•

RV Amenities: electricity, water, sewer, room for 15 trailers

•

Sunset RV Park, 110 S. Post St., Hay Springs

308-762-8660 800-767-8660

Year Round

RV Amenities: electricity, water, sewer, room for 9 trailers. Camping: 9 tents (First come)

25+

Walgren Lake SRA 4 mi. E. on US Hwy 20, 3 mi. S., Hay Springs

308-665-2900

Year Round

RV Amenities: water, room for 50 trailers Camping: 50. Rest facilities: Pit toilets

Rushville Service Center, W. US Hwy 20, Rushville

308-327-2375

Year Round

RV Amenities: electricity, water, sewer, room for 6 trailers. Rest facilities: 5 tents

GOLF COURSES

PHONE

AMENITIES

FEES

Room for 6 trailers

HOLES & TYPE

Call for rates

Call for hours & tee times.

6 NE Park Permit 10

RATE RANGE

Gordon Golf and Country Club 6535 210th Ln., 2nd & Willow Sts., Gordon

308-282-1146

18, public

15-23

Hay Springs

308-232-4436

9, public

5

Sand Ridge 3rd St. & Golf Course Ln., Rushville

308-327-2966

9, public

15-30

Pine Ridge • WestNebraska.com • 25

26 • Destination western nebraska 2020

GERING • SCOTTSBLUFF HENRY • MINATARE MORRILL • MITCHELL BAYARD • BRIDGEPORT LISCO • BROADWATER LEWELLEN • OSHKOSH A ROMANTIC ADVENTURE AWAITS

It’s easy to romanticize the American West.

Retracing the steps of pioneers who journeyed along the 2000-mile-long trail beginning in the 1830s, modern-day adventurers can’t truly understand or appreciate the perilous adventures the existed along its dusty, dry and often dangerous path.

The Trails West region is a safe destination these days—a beautiful landscape. Colorful names like Ash Hollow, Courthouse and Jail rocks, Chimney Rock and Scotts Bluff National Monument inspire visions of adventure.

The thrill of discovery continues in this rocky land. Instead of passing through, stay for a while and discover the romances of Trails West country.

Scotts Bluff National Monument pictured left

Trails West • WestNebraska.com • 27

40+ Murals // 2 Art Galleries VisitGardenCounty.com Lewellen • Oshkosh • Lisco

Scottsbluff/Gering...home of

Barn Anew Bed & Breakfast Free!Official 2020 Travel Guide

Free!Off

icial 20

20 Trav

Just a few miles from town, but a world apart!

el G uide

Free!Official 2020 Travel Guide Find your next

RE. ADVENTUka.com WestNebras 1.866.684.4066

308.632.8647 barnanew.com r next

you E.om URa.c VENT ADstN ebrask66

Find

We 684.40 1.866.

Scottsbluff’s Hampton Inn & Suites welcomes all travelers. Use it as your home and base camp while exploring western Nebraska.

• FREE WIFI • FREE BREAKFAST • POOL & SPA • FITNESS CENTER • CONFERENCE CENTER

308.635.5200 • Hilton.com 301 W Hwy 26, Scottsbluff, NE 28 • Destination western nebraska 2020

Find your next

ADVENTURE.

WestNebraska.com 1.866.684.4066

Want to Advertise?

Contact Gil Cohen at

Executive Vice President Sales & Marketing 402.884.2047 | gil@omahapublications.com

Find your next

ADVENTURE. WestNebraska.com 1.866.684.4066

e eyenn

Scottsbluff to Crawford

Berea Knight Museum

Carhenge

Carnegie Arts Center

71

“Old Jules” Sandoz Grave Site Dobby Frontier Town

Sallows Military Museum and Conservatory

Antioch

Alliance

Lakeside

2

26 min.

Riverside Discovery 14 min. Center 7 min.

Henry Morrill

1

Mitchell

Mitchell to Scottbluff

26

Midwest Theater

92

Gering

4

92

Robidoux Trading Post & Pioneer Graves

Chimney Rock Pony Express Station

Bayard Chimney Rock Museum

8

88

Harrisburg Banner County Historical Museum

Bayard 1

Chimney Rock Bridgeport National Historic Site

27 min Gering to Bayard

27

4

62A

McGrew

5

Wildcat Hills Nature Center

Lake Minatare State Recreation Area North Platte Wildlife Refuge

7

Minatare

Melbeta

Legacy of the Plains Museum

Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Bridgeport State Recreation Area Northport Pioneer Trails Museum

9

Wes te

rn T rails

A

Byw

1

27

ay

Lisco Nor

th P

71

Prairie Schooner Museum

10

Broadwater

92

Court House and Jail Rocks

1 hr.

3 min

Dalton

latt

eR

Historical Museum

11

ive

r

385

53 min.

Oshkosh 26

Gurley

Oliver Reservoir Recreation Area Bushnell 30

Kimball

Hyannis

34 min.

385

Scottsbluff Scottsbluff 6

Scotts Bluff National Monument 3 Five Rocks Amphitheater

Ashby

Bingham

Lake Minatare Lighthouse

Scottsbluff to Gering

2

Ellsworth

Plains Historical Museum Dix

18 min

Railroad Museum 29 Potter Lincoln Bywa y Duckpin 80 39 min Bowling Alley

Attractions #TRAILS WEST 71

Tri-State Marker Nebraska’s Highest Point

Fort Sidney Post Commander’s Home

Sidney 16 min

19

Hillside Golf Course

30

27

Lodgepole Depot Museum

Sunol

32 Cabela’s Retail Store and Wildlife Exhibit

Bergstrom Rock &

128western trails scenic byway 2 riverside discovery center 3 scotts bluff national monument 4 Robidoux trading post 5 wildcat hills state recreation area 6 Lake Minatare

Lorenzo 7 north platte national wildlife refuge Gem Collection 8 chimney rock 9 courthouse rock & Jail Rock 10 crescent lake national wildlife refuge 11 goose hunting capital 12 ash hollow state park

Gering |

Scotts Bluff National Monument is in Scotts Bluff County, but it is closer to the city of Gering than it is it is to nearby Scottsbluff. No matter.

To simplify things, folks living around here call it “The Monument,” a name as matter-of-fact as the wise Native American moniker for the bluff, Ma-a-pa-te, which means “hill that is hard to go around.”

pg. 38

The story of Gering is the story of the Oregon Trail. Where hopeful pioneers once passed by the hundreds of thousands, a city of more than 8,500 residents now thrives near the North Platte River.

Hard facts are scarce when it comes to Hiram Scott, but legends and lore abound about the fur trapper who died in 1828 near the bluff that bears his name all these years later. Historians argue over the real story of the man’s untimely demise. Was he cold-heartedly left for dead while suffering from some unknown ailment, and how did his remains end up on the opposite side of the river from where his corpse was supposedly abandoned?

Lewellen

Ash Hollow 12 State Historical Park

Wagon trains from the Missouri River reached Scotts Bluff only after two months of hard travel across what is now the state of Nebraska.

More than 350,000 pioneers are estimated to have passed by here between 1836 and 1869.

The ruts left by their many possession-laden wagons still can be seen here, carved into clay and stone, a visible testament to the courage

1

92

L a ke

McCo

44 min.

50 min.

Lodgepole Chappell

30 min. Sidney to Chappell

Pony Express National Monument

18 min.

California Hill Historical Marker Sudman-Neumann Heritage House Big Springs 30

Prehistoric Wonders Settling the west The Great OutDoors Pioneer trails One-of-a-Kinds Unique Geology Welcome Centers/Rest Areas

Brule

naug

hy

Ogallal

80

Mansion o the Hill

39 min.

Ogallala to Chappell

30 min.

Brandon 15 min.

and determination of those who were here before us. A harsh and arid land, yes but ultimately beautiful.

Rising 800 feet above the floor of the Platte River Valley, Scotts Bluff is sometimes thought to be a small mountain, which it is not. Mountains are pushed up from below; Scotts Bluff is what remains of the ancient High Plains that were eroded by rivers over millions of years. The uniquely Nebraska formation is part of a series of rocky escarpments known collectively as the Wildcat Hills.

»

Trails West • WestNebraska.com • 29

Gr

« The Scotts Bluff National Monument is near

Gering along the North Platte River and encompasses nearly 3,000 acres of arid land. Among its badlands of sandstone and siltstone, the fossilized remains of ancient oreodonts, tortoises, rhinoceroses, horses, camels and other prehistoric creatures have been discovered.

From atop Scotts Bluff on a clear day, visitors can see Chimney Rock to the southeast. Wyoming’s Laramie Range of the Rocky Mountains can sometimes be viewed when looking to the west.

You can drive to the top by way of Summit Road.

The route provides a stunning view and takes vehicles through three tunnels carved through the bluff. If you have the stamina, hiking the Saddle Rock Trail from the visitor center to the top is more of an adventure. Rock slides occasionally cause trail closures here.

Check in at the visitor center for current information. Seeing the bluffs’ walls up close is spectacular, and at one point, the trail passes through a narrow, rocky tunnel carved through part of the bluff itself. The less strenuous Oregon Trail Pathway allows visitors to walk the same ground where pioneers and their wagons passed long ago. The visitor center/museum displays the remains of ancient creatures that once lived here, the paintings of William Henry Jackson and artifacts from the pioneer era. Look at the taxidermy rattlesnakes at the front desk for a glimpse of the creatures rarely ever seen on the trails.

Hot air balloon over ScottsBluff The Monument is three miles west of Gering on the Old Oregon Trail. It is open daily 8 a.m.-7 p.m. from Memorial Day through Labor Day and closes at 5 p.m. the rest of the year. A fee free park and rangers give interpretive programs on many weekends throughout the year. (308) 436-9700.

The community of Gering is named for early settler Edson Gering and his wealthy investor father, Martin Gering. The town was founded in 1887. The community of Scottsbluff sprung up just north of the North Platte River three years later in 1890. Each town retains its own unique identity despite appearing in many ways as one large community.

Just east of the Monument on the Old Oregon Trail, Legacy of the Plains Museum shows visitors the history and development of the North Platte Valley and High Plains region. The museum’s 80-acre campus includes a machine annex, a historic farmstead house, a late 1880s log cabin and a working farm. (308) 436-1989.

30 • Destination western nebraska 2020

Across the road from the museum and overlooking the monument is the Five Rocks Amphitheater, which features concerts, car shows and other community events held each summer at this striking, open-air venue unlike anything else in the West. (308) 436-6886.

Monument Shadows Golf Course is an 18-hole course with outstanding views of Scotts Bluff National Monument. Clubhouse, cart rental and pro shop available. The course’s gourmet Monument Grill restaurant is known for its steaks and selection of beer. 2550 Clubhouse Drive. Reach the pro shop at (308) 635-2277. Call Monument Grill at (308) 635-6868.

Eight miles south of Gering on Highway 71, the Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area and Nature Center offers more than 4 miles of winding and scenic hiking trails, picnic facilities and cross-country skiing on more than 1,000 acres of pine and cedar-covered canyons. The Nature

Center was recently renovated and received an 8,720-square-foot expansion. A realistic tree “grows” from the bottom floor to tower over visitors on the second level.

Displays included educational exhibits about fossil animals and modern wildlife. Classes and workshops take place here regularly. Viewing wildlife coming and going from the center’s many feeders is a popular activity. A small prairie rattlesnake is known to lurk below the feeders while trying to snatch small birds that are feeding on the ground.

Please allow this natural predator some space when visiting. A Nebraska state park entry permit, which can be purchased on site, is required on each vehicle entering the recreation area. The area also includes a shooting range equipped to handle most caliber of firearms, and has archery and air gun ranges, too. (308) 436-3777.

In 1851, Plains Indians brought their trapped mammal furs to Robidoux Trading Post (pronounced Roo-bi-doo). In the early days of

the Oregon Trail, it was one of the first signs of civilization after many weeks and months spent crossing prairie. The sod-roofed building has been reconstructed with authentic 100-year-old handhewn logs and period furnishings.

Robidoux Trading Post is located in beautiful Carter Canyon, on the original Oregon Trail route used before savvy travelers began using nearby Mitchell Pass. The winding, 23-mile Carter Canyon Road takes travelers through rugged country, past pioneer graves marked and unknown and to the trading post. Travel slowly to glimpse elk, mule deer, golden eagles and huge flocks of wild turkeys.

Entrance to the road is south of Gering off scenic Highway 71.

For travelers seeking entertainment of a faster variety. Hi-Way 92 Raceway Park, two miles east of Gering on Highway 92, has stock car races on Saturday nights all summer long. The races have been a weekend tradition since 1968.

For more information on Gering, contact the Gering Visitors Bureau at (308) 436-6886 or www.visitgering.com.

Celebrate the 99th Annual

The Summer’s Best Weekend

July 9 - 12, 2020

Taking place in Gering, Oregon Trail Days is the longest running celebration in Nebraska.

Learn about the people who settled this great region and enjoy our old-fashioned parades, chili cook-off, live concerts, street dances, community barbecue, international food fair, art show, 5-mile run, kiddie parade, car show, bicycle hill climb and much more.

STATE CHAMPIONSHIP CASI COOK-OFF Green Chili Cook-off • Beef Open Cook-off • Bean Open Cook-off

For Details Call 308-436-4457 Visit OregonTrailDays.com for a Complete Schedule

Gering 2020 Events

FATHER’S DAY ROCK-N-ROLL CLASSIC CAR SHOW June. More than 300 classics from seven states roll into Five Rocks Amphitheater for this day-long show and shine. (308) 436-6886.

OREGON TRAIL DAYS July. Nebraska's oldest continuous celebration.

Events include parades, a food fair, bands, chili cook-off, art show and a Hill Climb bicycle competition to the top of Scotts Bluff National Monument. (308) 436-6886.

Under the striking views of the Scottsbluff National Monument, experience the timeless stories of the Nebraska prairie on this 80acre working farm. Early pioneer artifacts await your discovery along the Oregon Trail.

Oregon Trail Wagon Train: Aug. 22nd Harvest Festival: Sept. 19th - 20th 2930 Old Oregon Trail • Gering • LegacyofthePlains.org • 308.436.1989

OLD WEST BALLOON FEST August. Scotts Bluff County skies filled with over 80 hot air balloons, bright hues during daybreak launches, balloon glows, food vendors, beer garden and live entertainment. www.theoldwestballoonfest.com

HARVEST FESTIVAL September. Celebrate historic agriculture of the High Plains at Legacy of the Plains Museum. Pick your own potatoes. Admission charge of $5 per carload. (308) 436-1989.

Find your next

ADVENTURE. Western Nebraska

Explore the scenic beauty of Western Nebraska through outdoor adventures and historic attractions.

WestNebraska.com 1.866.684.4066

Trails West • WestNebraska.com • 31

Affiliated programs are Theatre West, a summer theater company, and the historic Midwest Theater, a downtown movie palace of yesteryear. (308) 632-6311.

Midwest theater

Walking and biking trails along the North Platte River connect Scottsbluff, Gering and Terrytown. Monument Valley Pathways includes 6.3 miles of trails; 26 miles are planned.

The area’s frontier history is commemorated on the Oregon Trail west of Scottsbluff near the intersection of Highway 92 and Hunt Dairy Road.

Two markers stand here. One is for Fort Mitchell, a cavalry outpost built in 1864. All traces of the fort have vanished, but this marker stands as a reminder of the role the men stationed at Fort Mitchell played in the settlement of the region. The marker was erected in 1923 when people with memory of the Oregon Trail were still alive.

The other marker, which depicts a Pony Express rider, commemorates the Scotts Bluff Pony Express Station. The exact location of the original station is unknown and lost to time, but is believed to have been on or nearby Fort Mitchell.

Scottsbluff, with 15,000 residents, is the Panhandle’s largest city. Combined with sister city Gering (pop. 8,000) and with Terrytown (pop. 1,200) sandwiched between, the Scottsbluff/Gering metro area is the largest population center in Western Nebraska.

Scottsbluff |

pg. 38

The rugged lands surrounding Scottsbluff are home to mule deer, pronghorn, bighorn sheep, elk, bobcats, mountain lions, golden eagles and many other hardy animals. A wild menagerie of chimpanzees, zebras, tigers, cranes, red pandas and other critters live in town at Riverside Discovery Center. The zoo is home to more than 70 animal species from around the world.

They include rare species such as Amur tigers, addax and several different kinds of primates. Other special exhibits include the Big Cat Complex, Chimpanzee Conservation Center and Heritage Barn with a petting zoo.

Not a fan of the furry? The Riverside Discovery Center has tortoises, turtles, hedgehogs and boa constrictors, too. When visiting during summer, bring swimsuits and flip-flops to

32 • Destination western nebraska 2020

enjoy the Splash-pad, a refreshing zero-depth water feature. South Beltline Highway W. is half a mile west of Highway 71. (308) 630-6236. www.riversidediscoverycenter.org.

Riverside Campground is open May through September and includes a playground, disc golf, fishing ponds, hiking and extensive arboretum near the scenic and refreshing North Platte River. (308) 630-6238.

Family-friendly attractions abound in Scottsbluff. Westmoor Pool at Avenue I and 20th Street includes water cannons, swimming pool, diving boards, slippery slides, an island and a lazy river. (308) 632-8881.

West Nebraska Arts Center, at 106 E. 18th St., is a hub for painting, sculpture, artists-in-residence and the performing arts. (308) 632-2226.

The much younger Terrytown was founded by businessman and politician Terry Carpenter in 1949. Terry’s Lake is a Terrytown landmark and popular fishing, picnic and recreation spot not far from the North Platte River. (308) 632-7212.

The pioneering spirit of early Scottsbluff pioneers continues today in the tasty and creative brews produced downtown at the Flyover Brewing Company. The brewery opened in 2018, and staff use brewing equipment made in Lincoln, malt grown in Nebraska and locally-grown sugar beets. The historic building housing the Panhandle’s only brewery has a relaxed atmosphere, and head brewer Derek Ordway is known for his pilsners and experimental India Pale Ales. It also includes a restaurant popular for its variety of pizzas. 1824 Broadway. (308) 632-2133.

For more information, contact Scottsbluff Area Tourism at www.visitscottsbluff.com or the Scottsbluff/Gering United Chamber of Commerce.

(308) 632-2133.

Scottsbluff 2020 Events

OLD WEST BALLOON FEST August. Scotts Bluff County skies filled with over 80 hot air balloons, bright hues during daybreak launches, balloon glows. It includes food vendors, beer garden and live entertainment. www.theoldwestballoonfest.com

SUGAR VALLEY RALLY June. The history of the Panhandle’s sugar beet industry is honored with this hundreds-of-mileslong precision driving contest through much of Western Nebraska. www.Visitscottsbluff.com.

18TH STREET FARMERS MARKET Saturday mornings June through September.

Backyard produce, farmers' veggies, locally raised meat, craft and home décor items and more are for sale from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Saturday mornings downtown between Broadway and First Avenue. www.Facebook.com/ScottsbluffFarmersMarket.

RIVERSIDE DISCOVERY CENTER All year. Special events throughout the year create unforgettable family memories at Western Nebraska’s only accredited zoo. Birthday parties, live music concerts, after-hours events and holiday celebrations have visitors and the zoo’s many big cats, roaring loudly with approval. (308) 630-6236.

Henry

Henry is Nebraska’s westernmost town. One mile south, Stateline Island, is part of the North Platte National Wildlife Refuge. The 130-acre refuge is a bird-watching mecca and popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

One mile east of Henry is the place where in 1847 Brigham Young called a special prayer circle. Prayer Bluffs is accessible by a service road.

Minatare |

pg. 40

Lake Minatare isn’t so large that it needs a lighthouse, but it has one anyway and is one of seven inland lighthouses in the United States. It was built by the Veteran’s Conservation Corps, a New Deal agency that provided jobs to unemployed veterans. (308) 783-2911. Located seven miles north of the community of Minatare, Lake Minatare State Recreation Area offers swimming, boating and fishing. A state park entry permit is required.

Lake Minatare is part of North Platte National Wildlife Refuge, which also includes nearby Winters Creek Lake and Lake Alice, and Stateline Island near Henry. All are good bird-watching areas. To provide undisturbed wildlife habitat during the autumn and winter migration season, all but Stateline Island are closed to visitors Oct. 15-Jan. 15. (308) 635-7851.

Morrill |

pg. 40

Morrill, population of 921, is a great place to stay to explore western Nebraska. Morrill’s Travelodge motel makes a great starting point as it is conveniently located off US Highway 26 and 20 miles from Western Nebraska Regional Airport (BFF).

Morrill is perfectly positioned to explore the area’s attractions such as Chimney Rock, Scotts Bluff National Monument, Wildcat Hills Recreation Center, Agate Fossil Beds, Fort Robinson, Fort Laramie in Wyoming, and Kiowa State Management Area as well as Stateline Island with walking trails and wildlife refuge.

In 1851, 10,000 Plains Indians from 10 tribes met with government officials near Horse Creek to form a peace treaty. Never in recorded history had so many Native Americans gathered at one place at the same time.

From the government’s perspective, the purpose of the treaty was to ensure safe passage for people using the Oregon Trail and to put a halt to intertribal warfare. The government broke the treaty almost immediately.

Horse Creek Treaty Marker is 3 ½ miles west of Morrill on Highway 26. Every July, Morrill’s Horse Creek Rendezvous commemorates the event.

»

chimney rock

Trails West • WestNebraska.com • 33

« Morrill has a variety of restaurants such as

Penny’s Diner, which is a 24-hour train car diner offering traditional American dishes and desserts in a 50s-themed interior, Subway, MiCasa Mexican Restaurant for traditional Mexican dishes, and the Rustic Tavern Bar and Grill, where you will get one of the best steaks in the valley along with some great down homecooked lunch specials.

The Village of Morrill offers an outdoor heated pool, one of few in the valley along with a separate baby pool. The pool also has both a high and a low dive. Morrill boasts 4 parks; City Park with playground equipment and picnic shelters; Veteran’s Park with veteran markers and a gazebo; Legion Baseball field on FoMo Park

Morrill County 2020 Events

GREEK FESTIVAL–TRADITIONAL DINNER Febuary 23. Greek lamb/roast beef dinner with Greek potatoes, Greek salad, spinach pie (spanakopita) and Greek walnut cake.

CAMP CLARKE SPRING RENDEZVOUS: MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND Enjoy the sport of traditional muzzle loader shooting, mountain man runs, breakfast cookoffs and hawk & knife throwing. Step back into the time of the early 1800s as people wear authentic clothing, camp in tipis and cook over fire. See what the mountain man saw as he trapped and traded throughout the Western United States. Vendors are welcome. Activities start time from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday and Sunday and 9 a.m. to noon on Monday.

CAMP CLARKE DAYS May 28-31. Camp Clarke Days is an annual tradition in Bridgeport and includes a full weekend of activities for families to enjoy.

BROADWATER DAYS June. Broadwater Nebraska’s Annual Community Celebration. Fun for the whole community and surrounding area. Call (308) 279-1024 or check the Broadwater Buzz Facebook page for activities and dates.

and 3 ballfields at Brownsfield Park. FoMo Park also offers a very popular Farmer’s Market with vendors from Wyoming, Colorado and Nebraska. The Sandpits just south of Morrill features 3 ponds that are stocked with fish annually. Morrill also offers a 9-hole golf course which was established in 1929. Rolling Green Golf Course features a driving range, putting green, fully stocked pro shop and some of the friendliest employees around. There are also 13 other golf courses close to Morrill in eastern Wyoming and western Nebraska, and the staff at Rolling Green Golf Course would gladly help you plan your golf excursion.

The Village Office is located at 118 S. Center Street.

(308) 247-2312.

CAMP CLARKE STAMPEDE RODEO July 3-4. One of the oldest rodeos in Nebraska.

All events and fireworks nightly at the Morrill County Fairground, 1 mile south of Bridgeport on Hwy 88.

MORRILL COUNTY FAIR July. There is something for everyone as events are open to all ages. Contact Prairie Winds Community Center (308) 262-1825 for dates and more information.

GREEK FESTIVAL August (2nd or 3rd Saturday) Authentic Greek food ala carte, dancing and music and other activities. Located at the Prairie Wings Community Center in Bridgeport. Call (308) 262-0281 for more information.

CHIMNEY ROCK PIONEER DAYS September. Pioneer Days features BBQ kickoff night with live music, free pancake feed, 5K run, parade, other events and food vendors.

Check Chimney Rock Pioneer Days on Facebook for more information.

CAMP CLARKE FALL RENDEZVOUS: LABOR DAY WEEKEND Activities are from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, and 9 a.m. to noon on Monday.

Mitchell |

pg. 40

Mitchell is the usual point of departure for adventurous travelers bound for unique Agate Fossil Beds National Monument, 30 miles north of the community on Highway 29.

Other recreation includes a motocross track at the old airport, Centennial Park and the historic Nile Theater.

Scenic Knolls Golf Course is a public, 9-hole course, 2 miles north of the intersections of highways 26 and 29.

American West Gallery features the original paintings of award-winning local artist LB Smith.

Creations by other artists are also shown and sold here. (308) 672-2628. 1402 Center Ave. Mitchell is also home to the Old West Balloon Fest and Balloon Federation of America’s national hot air ballooning competition in 2020 and 2021.

For more information about Mitchell, contact the city offices. (308) 623-1523.

Bayard |

pg. 39

Visible to wagon trains from days away, Chimney Rock’s 120-foot spire was unlike anything Oregon Trail pioneers had ever seen. The Landmark’s story is told at the Ethel and Christopher J. Abbott Visitor Center at Chimney Rock National Historic Site. It is located 1 ½ miles south of Highway 92 near Bayard.

(308) 586-2581.

Bayard Depot Museum is housed in a refurbished railroad depot at the south end of downtown. Exhibits of pioneer machinery, tools, quilts, a schoolroom, kitchen and bedroom in the museum document the development of the area and the railroad, farming, and sugar industries. Free admission. Open 1-4:30 pm daily during the summer and at other times by appointment. (308) 586-2297.

Chimney Rock Pioneer Crossing offers a gift shop, snacks, a stocked fishing hole, teepee sleeping, RV parking and camper hookups. Take in stunning views while golfing at the nine-hole Chimney Rock Golf Course north of town.

(308) 586-1606.

The Pumpkin Patch at BE Farm is nestled Northwest of Bayard off US Highway 26. Looking south, the patch boasts a beautiful view of one of Nebraska’s most iconic landmarks, Chimney Rock. All pumpkins and squash are planted

34 • Destination western nebraska 2020

Courthouse & Jail Rock

by hand using organic farming principles. With 60 varieties, you will find your perfect pumpkin here! Located 7 miles off the Western Trails Scenic and Historic Byway. Open every weekend in October. (308) 637-1699.

For more information, contact Bayard Area Development. (308) 586-1234.

Bridgeport |

pg. 39

The Camp Clarke Bridge, which opened in May 1876, was the first bridge to span the North Platte River in western Nebraska. It was built to serve Fort Robinson, Indian reservations, gold rush travelers, pioneers, and multiple cattle drives headed north. When the railroad arrived, the original site was abandoned in 1899 and relocated to establish the town of Bridgeport also known as “Trail City, USA.” Courthouse Rock and Jail Rock are prominent in history as two of the most famous landmarks of the westward migration and ancient legends.

Westward migrants named Nebraska’s rocky formations after things familiar to their eastern lives. They thought the blocky shape looked like a courthouse; the smaller formation nearby was therefore the jail. They are the easternmost rocky outliers of Nebraska’s Wildcat Hills.

The rocks, which are located five miles south of Bridgeport on Hwy 88, are visible from many miles away.

Pioneer Trails Museum exhibits items of early settlers and collections of fossils and arrowheads. A tour of the museum highlights stories of the Skidi Pawnee and Sioux Indians, the history of Camp Clarke, local pioneer families, the Old Oregon Trail, Mormon Trail, Pony Express, and many other trails that went through the area. Open seasonally from May through September. Free admission. Located at 103 Bell Road north of the river. Learn more by contacting museum@cityofbport.com or visiting the Bridgeport Pioneer Trails Museum Facebook page.

Courthouse and Jail Rock Golf Club, a ninehole public course complete with cart rentals and a club house provides golfers a scenic view of nearby Courthouse Rock and Jail Rock.

(308) 262-9925.

Just off Hwy 26 and 92 on the west edge of town, Bridgeport State Recreation Area offers primitive camping, picnicking, hiking, fishing and swimming. Five sandpit lakes are the heart of this recreation area. Center Lake is open to motorboat traffic. Boat ramps are available for boating enthusiasts and fishermen. Trout are stocked in Northwest and Center lakes.

(308) 436-3777.

Many community events are held at the Prairie Winds Community Center located on North Main Street. Travelers are welcome to take advantage of the facilities, including exercise room, shower, outdoor swimming pool and more. For more information call (308) 262-1825.

Broadwater |

pg. 39

Among the exhibits at the Broadwater Museum are a petrified turtle measuring 48 inches around, believed to be from the Mesozoic Era which was excavated from the local area, and a bronze ship’s bell from the H.M.S. Broadwater that was presented to Broadwater from the British Embassy in 1951. A visitor will also experience other exhibits portraying the history of the area. Located in the Village Hall, the museum is open the 1st through the 10th of each month or by appointment by calling (308) 279-1024.

The Farm House B&B is an extensively renovated and refurbished historic hotel and residence which offers travelers, hunters, and community friends a cozy night’s stay and a place to reminisce and dream of yesteryear.

Visitors are also provided a tour of these unique properties by calling (308) 279-1024.

Lisco |

pg. 41

Ancient Bluff Ruins is the most extensive bluff formation on the north side of the North Platte River. The buttes were named by pioneers who thought they resembled European castles.

Riverview Lodge and Event Center hosts weddings and other events, and has goose hunting pits for lease. (308) 770-0740.

Trails West • WestNebraska.com • 35

Rock your Golf Game 106 East 18th St.

Take in stunning views while golfing at Chimney Rock Golf Course. In Bayard, you’ll find the luxury of a small town with big-time adventures. 6.5 Miles North of Chimney Rock

18 Holes 2 Golf fees + Cart for $35

Call 308-586-1606 for tee times. Expires October 2020.

cityofbayard.net 7366 Rd 108 • Bayard, NE

Located in Gering, NE, Monument Inn & Suites offers clean, affordable hotel rooms near many great attractions in the Gering/Scottsbluff area. We are located by the Scotts Bluff National Monument, Chimney Rock, the Oregon Trail, Wild Cat Hills Preserve, the Legacy of the Plains Museum, and many other great attractions. During your visit, you can see the original wagon migration ruts and learn exactly how pioneers lived.

We look forward to having you stay with us here at the Monument Inn & Suites!

1130 M St., Gering, NE 69341 1-866-436-1950 Toll-Free monumentinnsuites.com

Find your next

ADVENTURE. Western Nebraska

Explore the scenic beauty of Western Nebraska through outdoor adventures and historic attractions.

WestNebraska.com 1.866.684.4066

STAY

AT THE

FARM HOUSE A slice of TRADITION

Take a trip down memory lane when to stay at the Historic Hotelknown as the Farm House B & B. Reserve your getaway today in Broadwater!

102 E. Guthrie St. Broadwater, Ne. 1.308.279.1024

36 • Destination western nebraska 2020

Taste cupcakes, breads, cabbage burgers and more— baked daily in Gering.

VISIT OUR SISTER BAKERIES: Scottsbluff’s Bluffs Bakery & Sidney’s Rolling Pin Bakery

1446 10th St.,• Gering• 308-436-5500

Scottsbluff, NE 69361

visit the gallery Tuesday-Friday: 9 am- 5pm weekends: 1-5pm 308.632.2226 thewnac.com find us on facebook The Nebraska Arts Council, a state agency, has supported the programs of this organization through its matching grants program funded by the Nebraska Legislature, the National Endowment for the Arts and the Nebraska Cultural Endowment

FATHER’S DAY

CLASSIC CAR SHOW

  � � �

highplainsautoclub.com visitscottsbluff.com • Gering, NE

Lewellen |

pg. 41

Scars from pioneer wagons remain at Windlass Hill at Ash Hollow State Park. Abundant water and trees made it a favorite resting place. The park is 1½ miles southeast of Lewellen on Highway 26. The Ash Hollow Pageant is on Father’s Day weekend. (308) 778-5528.

West of town 1½ miles along Highway 26 is the Blue Water Battlefield marker. It marks the site of an Army raid that destroyed a Lakota village.

Lewellen features The Most Unlikely Place, a 1908 silent-movie theater that is now a café and art gallery. (308) 778-9557.

Oshkosh |

pg. 41

Oshkosh is known as the Goose Hunting Capital of Nebraska. Outfitters accommodate sportsmen from around the world.

Oshkosh is a point of departure for the 46,000acre Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

Other local attractions include Oshkosh Swimming Pool. 200 E. First St. Oshkosh Country Club is a 9-hole course 1 mile south of town.

Oregon Trail ruts cross the second fairway.

(308) 772-3881.

the village of

MORRILL

a recreator’s dream Morrill Village has everything a family vacation needs.

Just 20 minutes from the bustle of Scottsbluff, you can hit the range at the public 9-hole golf course, go for a dip at the community swimming pool, stroll through the city park or pick-up a tennis match at the courts.

And don’t forget to pack your tackle box and poles for some fishing at the sand pit ponds!

Contact the Garden County Visitors Committee.

Visitgardencounty.com.

Garden County 2020 Events

ASH HOLLOW PAGEANT—LEWELLEN June. Enjoy a chuck wagon supper and camaraderie before this highly anticipated annual outdoor musical of Oregon Trail life at scenic Ash Hollow State Historical Park. (308) 778-5548.

START PL ANNING YOUR GETAWAY TODAY

GARDEN CO. ART & MURAL TOUR View more than 40 murals in three towns for a self-guided art scavenger hunt. Lewellen has two art galleries—Blue Water Gallery and The Most Unlikely Place. Reach both at (308) 778-9557.

VILLAGE OF MORRILL VillageOfMorrill.com

308-247-2312 | 118 S. Center Morrill, NE Mon-Fri, 7:30 am to 4:30 pm Trails West • WestNebraska.com • 37

Gering

HOTELS & MOTELS

PHONE

ROOMS

Arcadia Hotel, 3655 N. 10th St., Gering www.thearcadiahotel.com

308-635-3176

39

Refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, DVD player

51-75

Circle S. Lodge, 400 M St., Hwys 92 & 71, Gering

308-436-2157

30

Pets allowed

1-75

Cobblestone Hotel & Suites, 960 M St., Gering www.staycobblestone.com

308-633-7660 888-693-8262

54

24-hour convenience store, complimentary hot breakfast, fitness center, indoor pool, onsite beer and wine bar

75+

Monument Inn & Suites, 1130 M St., Gering www.monumentinnsuites.com

308-436-1950 866-436-1950

61

Wheelchair accessible, free continental breakfast, pets allowed

75+

PHONE

OPEN

Robidoux RV Park, 585 Five Rocks Rd., 1/2 mi. S. of Jct. of Hwy 92 & Five Rocks Road, Gering www.gering.org

308-436-2046

Year Round

RV Amenities: electricity, water, sewer, room for 42 trailers. Rest Facilities: showers, flush toilets. Camping: unlimited tents

Wildcat Hills SRA, 4235 Hwy 71, Gering www.outdoornebraska.gov

308-436-3777

Year Round

RV Amenities: water, room for 5 trailers.

Rest Facilities: pit toilets. Camping: 5 tents

CAMPGROUNDS

GOLF COURSES Monument Shadows Golf Course 2550 Clubhouse Dr., Gering

Scottsbluff

HOTELS & MOTELS

PHONE

AMENITIES

AMENITIES

HOLES & TYPE

308-635-2277

RATE RANGE

FEES 29-35 6 NE Park Permit

RATE RANGE

Call for hours & tee times.

18, public

16-25

PHONE

ROOMS

AMENITIES

RATE RANGE

Candlelight Inn, 1822 E. 20th Place, Scottsbluffs www.candlelightscottsbluff.com

308-635-3751

56

Wheelchair accessible, outdoor pool, free continental breakfast

Capri Motel, 2424 Ave. I, Scottsbluff

308-635-2057

30

Wheelchair accessible, free continental breakfast, pets allowed

1-50

Comfort Inn, 1902 21st Ave., Scottsbluff www.choicehotels.com

308-632-7510

49

Wheelchair accessible, indoor pool, fre continental breakfast, pets allowed

75+

Fairfield Inn & Suites Marriott, 902 Winter Creek Dr., Scottsbluff, www.marriott.com/hotels

308-633-3500

85

Wheelchair accessible, free Wi-Fi, free parking, balcony, outdoor fire pit, complimentary hot breakfast, pool & spa

75+

Hampton Inn & Suites Conference Center 301 W. Hwy 26, Jct of Ave B & Hwy 26, Scottsbluff www.hampton-inn.com

308-635-5200 800-HAMPTON

81

Wheelchair accessible, indoor pool, free continental breakfast

75+

Holiday Inn Express, 1821 Frontage Rd., Scottsbluff www.hiexpress.com/scottsbluffne

308-632-1000

70

Wheelchair accessible, indoor pool, free continental breakfast

75+

Lamplighter American Inn, 606 E. 27th St., Scottsbluff

308-632-7108

40

Restaurant on premises, free continental breakfast, pets allowed

50

Scottsbluff Days Inn, 1901 21st Ave., Scottsbluff www.daysinn.com

308-635-3111

136

Wheelchair accessible, indoor pool, free continental breakfast, pets allowed

75+

Super 8 Motel, 2202 Delta Dr., Scottsbluff www.super8.com

308-635-1600

55

Wheelchair accessible, indoor pool, free continental breakfast, pets allowed

51-75

51-75+

Scottsbluff Cont. »

38 • Destination western nebraska 2020

« ScottsBluff Cont.

UNIQUE LODGING

PHONE

AMENITIES

RATE RANGE

Barn Anew B&B, on old Oregon Trail Rd., 3 mi. W. of Scottsbluff, www.barnanew.com

308-632-8647

100-year-old barn in the shadow of Scotts Bluff National Monument, private rooms, full breakfast

Trails West Camp, 1918 S Beltline Hwy, Scottsbluff www.trailswestymca.org

308-632-5705

Wheelchair accessible, outdoor pool

GOLF COURSES Riverview Country Club, 100928 Cty Rd. 19, Scottsbluff

CAMPGROUNDS

PHONE

HOLES & TYPE

308-635-1555

75+

•

Call for hours & tee times.

18 holes, public

RATE RANGE Under 115

PHONE

OPEN

Riverside Campground, 1514 Beltline Hwy W.S. www.scottsbluff.org

308-632-6342

May 1Sept. 30

RV Amenities: electricity, water, sewer, room for 43 trailers. Rest Facilities: showers, flush toilets. Camping: 50 tents

•

Captain Critter Campgrounds, 180454, US-26, Scottsbluff, www.captaincritters.com

•

•

•

•

308-635-3760

Apr.-Oct. 1

RV Amenities: electricity, water, sewer, room for 38 trailers. Rest facilities: showers, flush toilets. Camping: 6 tents

16-26

Route 26 Campground, 180454, US Hwy 26

Bridgeport, Broadwater

&

AMENITIES

FEES

Bayard

HOTELS & MOTELS

PHONE

ROOMS

Cobblestone Inn & Suites, 517 Main St., Bridgeport

308-262-7900

35

Modern room, fitness center, beer and wine bar

Meadow Park Campground & Motel, 2 mi. N.W. on US Hwy 385 to Mile Marker 77, Bridgeport www.meadowparkmotelandrv.com

308-279-1176

8

Pets allowed

1-75

Meadowlark Motor Inn, N. US Hwy 385, Bridgeport www.meadowlarkmotorinn.com

308-262-0557 800-510-1210

22

Wheelchair accessible, restaurant on premises, free continental breakfast, pets allowed

51-75

UNIQUE LODGING The Farm House 102 E. Guthrie St., Broadwater

CAMPGROUNDS

PHONE 308-279-1024

AMENITIES

RATE RANGE

AMENITIES

109-135

RATE RANGE

Hunters, friends and family alike will enjoy a step down memory lane in this historic bed and breakfast with a homestyle breakfast.

AMENITIES

50+

PHONE

OPEN

FEES

Chimney Rock Pioneer Crossing, 3 mi. S. of Bayard at Jct Cty Rd. 75 & Hwy 92 www.chimneyrockpioneercrossing.com

308-631-4478

Year Round

RV Amenities: electricity, water, sewer, room for 16 trailers. Rest Facilities: showers, flush toilets. Camping: 30 tents

20-30

Bridgeport SRA, N.W. on US Hwy 26, Bridgeport www.outdoornebraska.ne.gov

308-436-3777

Year Round

RV Amenities: water, room for 50 trailers.

Rest Facilities: pit toilets. Four sandpit lakes totaling 78 acres. Camping: 100 tents

6 NE Park Permit

Meadow Park Annex RV, 2 mi. N. on US Hwy 385, Mile Marker 77, Bridgeport www.outdoornebraska.ne.gov

308-262-0410

Year Round

RV Amenities: electricity, water, sewer, room for 18 trailers. Rest Facilities: showers, flush and pit toilets. Camping: 10 tents

•

bridgeport, broadwater & bayard » Trails West • WestNebraska.com • 39

« bridgeport, broadwater & bayard

GOLF COURSES

PHONE

HOLES & TYPE

Call for hours & tee times.

RATE RANGE

Chimney Rock Golf Course N. US Hwy 26, Bayard

308-586-1606

9, public

Under 15

Courthouse & Jail Rock Golf Course 5 mi. S. on Hwy 88, Bridgeport

308-262-9925

9, public

Under 15

Morrill, Mitchell HOTELS & MOTELS

Oak Tree Inn 707 E. Webster, US Hwy 26, Morrill

UNIQUE LODGING Angel Wing Outfitters, 400 3rd St. Gering www.angelwingoutfitters.com

CAMPGROUNDS

&

PHONE

308-247-2111

Minatare ROOMS 97

Wheelchair accessible, restaurant on premises, pets allowed

RATE RANGE 51-75

PHONE

AMENITIES

RATE RANGE

308-641-3528

•

•

PHONE

OPEN

Lake Minatare SRA 7 mi. of Minatare on Stonegate Rd.

308-783-2911

•

Scenic Knolls Campground 20548 Hwy 29, Mitchell, www.mitchellcity.net

308-623-2468

Mar.-Sept.

Scotts Bluff County Fairgrounds, 130625 Cty Rd. E. Mitchell, www.scottsbluffcountyfair.net

308-623-1828

Zeigler Park, 1280 Center Ave., Mitchell www.mitchellcity.net

308-623-1616

GOLF COURSES

AMENITIES

PHONE

AMENITIES RV Amenities: water, room for 50 trailers Rest facilities: showers, flush and pit toilets Camping: 110 tents

FEES 7-18 NE Park Permit

RV Amenities: electricity, water, room for 6 trailers

15

Year Round

RV Amenities: electricity, water, room for 80+ trailers. Rest facilities: showers, flush toilets, 14+ tents Horse boarding: $10

15

Year Round

RV Amenities: electricity, room for 4 trailers Rest facilities: flush toilets

HOLES & TYPE

Call for hours & tee times.

5

RATE RANGE

Scenic Knolls, 20458 Hwy 29, Mitchell

308-623-2468

9 holes, public

Under 15

Rolling Green Golf Course, 520 Railroad St., Morrill

308-247-2817

9 holes, public

Under 15

40 • Destination western nebraska 2020

Oregon Trail

Lewellen, Lisco HOTELS & MOTELS

&

Oshkosh

PHONE

ROOMS

Lewellen Lodge & Living, 215 E. Church St., Lewellen www.lewellenlodge.com

308-672-0690

22

Marina Landing, 5051 Albees, Hwy 92, mile marker 127, Lewellen, www.lakemacmarinalanding.com

308-355-3535 888-767-7791

Otter Creek Lodge, 100 Otter Creek Ct., Lewellen, Lake McConaughy, 12 mi. from dam on Hwy 92

AMENITIES

RATE RANGE

Wheelchair accessible, workout room, pets allowed

65-100

8

Wheelchair accessible, restaurant on premises

51-75

308-355-2372

9

Restaurant on premises, pets allowed

1-50

Mesa View Lodge, NE Hwy 92 W, Lewellen, Lake McConaughy, www.homesatlakemac.com

308-355-5000 888-568-7620

10

Pets allowed

1-75

Riverview Lodge & Events Center, 14518 Rd. 70, 1 mi.

S., 1 mi. W., Lisco, www.riverviewlodgelisco.com

308-772-3829

11

Full bath, satellite TV, hair dryer, broadband Internet, handicap accessible, microwave and refrigerator

Shady Rest, 201 Main Street, Oshkosh www.oshkoshshadyrest.com

308-772-4111

12

Wheelchair accessible, pets allowed

UNIQUE LODGING

81-119

1-75

PHONE

AMENITIES

RATE RANGE

Clear Creek Retreat, 2220 Road West O N., Lewellen www.clearcreekretreat.com

308-778-9546

Three bedrooms, full kitchen; cater to hunters and fishermen

90+

Gander Inn B&B 105 E. Church St., Lewellen, www.ganderinn.net

308-778-5616

Small-town peaceful setting. Game room & gift shop.

Wheelchair accessible, rooms with private and shared baths, full breakfast. Meals arranged around guests

51-75+

Nancy B's Backyard Bunkhouse, 19150 Rd. 44, US Hwy 26 to Rd. 44 W., Lewellen, www.visitogallala.com

308-778-5408

3-bedroom guesthouse or tepee, continental breakfast

51-75+

Hunt the Rackett 9250 Rd. 193, Lewellen, www.hunttheracket.com

303-680-2462

Private sleeping quarters, clubhouse, dining hall, weathertight dog kennels

CAMPGROUNDS

200+

PHONE

OPEN

AMENITIES

FEES

Highway 26 RV Park and Camping 311 Home St., Lewellen, www.hwy26rvpark.com

308-778-9552

•

RV Amenities: electricity, water. Rest Facilities: showers, flush toilets. Camping: available

Call for rates

Oregon Trail Trading Post, E. of Lewellen on US Hwy 26

308-778-5879

Year Round

RV Amenities: electricity, water, room for 8 trailers. Rest Facilities: pit toilets. Camping: 8 tents. Cabin Rentals: 10

Call for rates

Pleasant View Lodge at Otter Creek, 1290 NE Hwy 92 W, Lewellen, www.homesatlakemac.com

308-355-5000 888-568-7620

Year Round

RV Amenities: electricity, water, sewer, room for 15 trailers. Rest Facilities: showers, flush toilets. Camping: 7 tents

5-20 fees

Oregon Trail Campsite, 402 W. Ave. A, Oshkosh www.oregontrailcampsite.com

308-778-7395

Apr. 1-Nov. 1

RV Amenities: electricity, water, sewer, room for 15 trailers. Rest Facilities: showers, flush toilets. Camping: 7 tents

Call for rates

GOLF COURSES Oshkosh Country Club South Hwy 27, 2 mi., Oshkosh

PHONE 308-772-3881

HOLES & TYPE

Call for hours & tee times.

9 holes, public

RATE RANGE 18

Trails West • WestNebraska.com • 41

42 • Destination western nebraska 2020

NORTH PLATTE MAXWELL • BRADY HERSHEY • SUTHERLAND SIDNEY • POTTER LODGEPOLE • DALTON GURLEY • LEMOYNE OGALLALA • KEYSTONE PAXTON • BRULE BIG SPRINGS • CHAPPELL KIMBALL • HARRISBURG HISTORY ABOUNDS IN NEBRASKA'S WILD WEST Outlaw Sam Bass got away with $60,000 in gold and currency he stole from a train at Big Springs. Is the missing gold buried nearby?

Maybe. Who knows?

This is just one of the questions raised from Wild West folklore—stories that continue today and drive interest in Nebraska’s Wild West.

Buffalo Bill is a big part of those old tales. He dreamed big, and he dreamed up his Wild West Show in North Platte. Today, the Golden Spike Tower provides a bird’s eye view of Bailey Yard, the world’s largest railroad classification yard.

You can’t drive I-80 through Nebraska without hearing the call from Chappell and its 52-by-100-foot American flag painted on towering grain silos. Come create your own stories in Nebraska’s Wild West, which also is home to the state’s largest lake—Lake McConaughy. Are you listening?

Lake McConaughy pictured left

Wild west • WestNebraska.com • 43

Sponsored Content

Keith County Located at the junction of the Texas and Oregon Trails, the Ogallala/Keith County area remains a destination that attracts travelers who seek wide-open spaces and endless adventures.

Lake McConaughy, the largest reservoir in a 3-state region, has long been a favorite oasis for campers, boaters and fishermen. Constructed on the edge of the Nebraska Sandhills, the lake boasts natural white sand beaches and over 55 square miles of water at full pool.

Sailing, water skiing, kiteboarding, kayaking, and fat-tire biking are also popular activities. Anglers fish for trophy walleye, as well as wipers, smallmouth bass, and northern pike.

On the other side of Kingsley Dam, smaller Lake Ogallala is home to an excellent rainbow trout fishery. In addition to numerous state and private campgrounds, beach camping for RVs and tents is permitted in designated areas.

Habitat diversity and location on central flyways make Keith County an excellent spot for birdwatching. According to ornithologist Dr. Paul Johnsgard, UNL Professor Emeritus, it is “the best place in the state and the third best in the country to go birding.” 363 species have been counted in the area. Bald eagles congregate in large numbers in early winter at the Kingsley Hydroplant below the dam.

44 • Destination western nebraska 2020

“The best place in the state and the third best in the country to go birding.”

—Ornithologist Dr. Paul Johnsgard Depicted in the novel and TV miniseries Lonesome Dove, Ogallala has a colorful past rooted in the cattle drive era of the 1870s.

Reminders of the town’s Old West history are everywhere. Step back in time on a tour of Boot Hill cowboy cemetery, where unlucky settlers, drovers and gamblers were buried “with their boots on.” Front Street, a replica street with restaurant, saloon and free cowboy museum, stages the long-running Crystal Palace Revue each summer. The Mansion on the Hill, a beautifully preserved Victorian home built in 1887, is open for summer tours and special holiday events. One of the area’s most unique attractions is the Petrified Wood & Art Gallery, housing a rare collection of ancient woods, Western art and artifacts. It is open year-round.

Built in 1908 in a pioneer community that was too small for two churches, the Little Church at Keystone is a monument to religious harmony and cooperation. Two congregations shared this unique building that contains both Catholic and Protestant altars as well as reversible pews. The church is open to visitors by appointment.

The Lincoln Highway community of Paxton also features several worthwhile stops. Ole’s Big Game Steakhouse & Lounge showcases a historic collection of over 200 trophy mounts.

The antique and gift store Anne Marie’s is located in a restored Union Pacific depot, and the new coffee and ice cream shop The Grainery is next door in the restored Paxton grain elevator, originally built in 1920.

For more information about the Keith County/ Lake McConaughy area, visit the Keith County Visitors Committee’s website: ilovelakemac.com.

Visitors can download the Lake McConaughy app for coupons for lodging, golf and other coupons. Interactive visitor kiosks are located at the Ogallala I-80 interchange near the Casey’s convenience store and at the Lake McConaughy Visitor and Water Interpretive Center.

North Platte |

pg. 52

North Platte’s heritage of hospitality began when its most famous citizen, Col. Wm. F. "Buffalo Bill" Cody built his Scouts Rest Ranch and settled down here. He and Louisa loved to entertain and welcomed locals as well as dignitaries from across the nation and around the world. Through World War II and right on up to the present day, North Platte has embraced that spirit of hospitality and welcomes thousands of visitors annually to exciting attractions. While approaching North Platte on Interstate 80, one of the first landmarks seen is Fort Cody Trading Post. You will know it when you see it—the place looks like a frontier log fortress complete with mannequins standing guard with toy rifles.

Inside Fort Cody is a combination gift shop and museum, with authentic Buffalo Bill Cody and Wild West memorabilia and a mini mechanized Wild West Show. Twenty thousand pieces make up the one-of-a-kind machine which comes to life every half hour. A taxidermy two-headed calf is among the curiosities here, and jewelry, moccasins and coon skin caps are popular gift items.

remaining 3900-class Challenger locomotives.

The park also has a swimming pool and amusement park rides for children, including a carousel and Ferris wheel. A concession stand adds tasty treats to the many sweet memories made here.

Some of the animals that Cody saw on the frontier live at Cody Park. Deer and bison are part of the herd, and the bugling of elk can be heard across North Platte in early autumn. Other critters include peacocks, llamas, geese, ducks and donkeys. There is an admission charge for rides; other attractions are free.

In 1995, the Guinness Book of World Records recognized Union Pacific’s Bailey Yard as the world’s largest railroad classification yard. It has since grown by 25 percent and covers nearly 3,000 acres. More than 10,000 train cars pass through daily.

Golden Spike Tower and Visitor Center rises eight stories above Bailey Yard. An elevator takes visitors to the seventh floor open-air observation deck, or to the eighth floor for a one-of-a-kind enclosed viewing experience. (308) 532-9920.

Under the watchful eye of one of the few remaining Muffler Man sculptures, the Fort Cody Music Series takes place each summer in Fort Cody’s courtyard. (308) 532-8081

The area’s geological history is part of the flavor of Feather River Vineyards, where the mineral-rich soil produces distinctive grapes for its new wines. (308) 696-0078.

Besides repeat queries about that calf, previous owner Chuck Henline said the most common question he gets from travelers is “How do you get to the ranch?”

North Platte’s Garden Glove, Inc. is the local headquarters for landscape and garden plants.

In addition to the four greenhouses, there is a large gift shop for home and garden décor. The all new Coffee Bin serves hand crafted gourmet coffee, pastries and lunch items out of two refurbished grain bins. The Newberry Road bypass offers a nearly straight shot to Old South Highway 83, making it North Platte’s Grain Bin Highway with Garden Glove and the Coffee Bin on the north and Grain Bin Antique Town on the south.

Buffalo Bill State Historical Park showcases the restored 1880s Victorian home, expansive horse barn and outbuildings of William F. Cody’s famous Scout’s Rest Ranch. The site features authentic Wild West show memorabilia, period household furnishings, shady picnic areas and easy walking trails.

A Nebraska park entry permit is required to visit the seasonal park. A small admission fee is charged to tour the Cody home. (308) 535-8035.

Buffalo Bill is memorialized at Cody Park on north U.S. Highway 83. As the centerpiece of the park’s Wild West Memorial, a statue of Cody is surrounded by the flags of every state and nation his Wild West Show ever performed in.

At the park’s Railroad Museum, the Union Pacific Railroad displays two of its largest locomotives (one steam, one diesel) and houses a railroad museum in the accompanying cars and restored depot. The steam engine is one of two

Grain Bin Antique Town offers antiques and collectibles for sale from 20 vintage grain bins connected by a boardwalk. 10641 S. Old Highway 83. (308) 539-7401.

North Platte’s location in the heart of the Platte River valley, America’s “Great Platte River Road” means that it abounds with the history of the great westward migration. Monuments for the Oregon Trail, Mormon Trail, California Trail and the Pony Express can be found along the county roads from Brady on the east to Sutherland on the west. State Farm Road, Walker Road and Antelope Road are all great choices for seeing a large number of these monuments. North of Sutherland on Prairie Trace Road remnants of

the Mormon Trail can be seen. At the Sutherland eastbound Interstate 80 rest area are the remains of ruts left by pioneers traveling the Oregon Trail.

The North Platte Canteen is commemorated at the Lincoln County Historical Museum. The World War II canteen met every train and fed the service men and women who passed through the depot – about 6 million in all. The extensive museum also features a village of historic buildings, including a genuine Pony Express station and the old Fort McPherson headquarters.

(308) 534-5640.

Located just south of I-80, 20th Century Veterans Memorial honors all military men and women of the past century. A brick bas-relief sculpture depicts major wars from World War I to the Persian Gulf. Bronze statues depict the United States armed forces and the ladies of the North Platte Canteen. The memorial is south of I-80 and just east of Highway 83. (308) 532-6579.

North Platte Area Children’s Museum offers hands-on learning about science, technology, culture and the arts in the former Carnegie Library located at 314 N. Jeffers St. (308) 532-3512.

Downtown has unique shops, restaurants and art galleries. Prairie Arts Center opened its first exhibition in the renovated 1913 federal building in 2015. The main level, complete with grand entry hall, gift shop and gallery is open Tues.Sat., 11 a.m.-4 p.m., showcasing local artists and traveling exhibits.

Horseback riding, tanking, kayaking and canoeing are available at Dusty Trails Outdoor Specialists. Try their cowboy mounted shooting course for a real taste of the Old West. 2617 N. Buffalo Bill Ave. (308) 530-0048.

Flavorful beer and a full restaurant attract travelers to Pals Brewing Co. Brews such as Explosive Apricot Wheat, Jalapeno Cream Ale and Phat Pumpkin impress even experienced beer aficionados. Pals’ pizza oven pleases with a variety of pies, and feel free to check out the large outdoor patio when the weather is nice. 4520 S. Buffalo Bill Ave. (308) 221-6715.

Cody Go-Karts near I-80 has water slides, mini golf, bumper boats and go-karts mid-March through September, weather permitting.

(308) 534-8277.

»

Wild west • WestNebraska.com • 45

« More unique flora can be found year-round at

Grandy’s Greenhouse located north of Highway 30 between North Platte and Hershey.

The headquarters for quality bedding plants since 1972, Grandy’s added the ‘Jungle’ several years ago. This geodesic dome greenhouse is open throughout the year and is filled with house plants, both well-known and exotic.

The hot and humid Jungle makes an excellent cold-weather excursion.

The North Platte River Valley hosts Sandhill Cranes during spring migration February to April.

(308) 532-4729.

Lincoln County 2020 Events

NEBRASKALAND DAYS – NORTH PLATTE June 17 – 27. NEBRASKAland DAYS is the official celebration of the State of Nebraska, held annually the third week of June. The excitement kicks off with four nights of the PRCA Buffalo Bill Rodeo (June 17-20) and closes with the Summer Jam Concert Series, this year featuring Luke Combs and Toby Keith.

Other activities include a craft beer festival, parade, art show, quilt show, pork breakfast, carnival and more. NEBRASKAlandDAYS.com

MISS NEBRASKA AND MISS RODEO NEBRASKA – NORTH PLATTE June. Royalty sparkles in North Platte each June with the crowning of both Miss Nebraska and Miss Rodeo Nebraska.

The Miss Nebraska Pageant is held annually in June with local title holders vying for the title of Miss Nebraska and the chance to compete in the Miss America Pageant. Candidates compete in Talent, Evening Wear and On-Stage Questions during the preliminary night competitions prior to the final night and crowning of the new Miss Nebraska. MissNebraska.org Miss Rodeo Nebraska strives to promote the state of Nebraska and the sport of professional rodeo, and in so doing, promotes the great western way of life. Each year she is crowned during NEBRASKAland DAYS and the Buffalo Bill PRCA Rodeo in North Platte. Contestants are judged on horsemanship, personality, appearance, speech and interviews. The winner will serve as ‘lady in waiting’ to the current Miss Rodeo Nebraska before taking her place in January of 2021. She will travel across the state and country representing Nebraska before competing in Miss Rodeo America during the National Finals Rodeo. NEBRASKAlandDAYS.com/mrna

46 • Destination western nebraska 2020

Five miles south of town, Lake Maloney State Recreation Area provides fishing, boating, camping and picnicking as well as archery, golf and wildlife watching.

North Platte offers three 18-hole golf courses.

The Platte River is a scenic water hazard at Iron Eagle. (308) 535-6730. The other two are Lake Maloney (308) 532-9998 and Rivers Edge (308) 532-7550. Indian Meadows is a nine-hole course. (308) 532-6955.

March. The North Platte river and the crop fields and meadows surrounding North Platte are filled with an estimated 200,000 Sandhill Cranes each year during the annual migration. North Platte’s Dusty Trails hosts Sandhill Crane viewing tours and trips to Prairie Chicken blinds in March and April.

These experiences showcase the incredible dancing behavior of the Sandhill Cranes in the fields and the Prairie Chickens on their leks. DustyTrails.biz

WESTERN NEBRASKA CRAFT BEER FEST – NORTH PLATTE The Western Nebraska Craft Beer Festival is hosted

by Pals Brewing Company. VIP tickets get you in an hour earlier to sample special batch beers that may be gone by 3 p.m. Live music and pizza by the slice at Pals Grain Bin Bar will be available for purchase.

No one under 21 allowed, ID's required for all. No dogs. No re-entry into the festival. Feel free to bring your lawn chair! PalsBrewingCompany.com

CHRISTMAS IN NORTH PLATTE Each year the Buffalo Bill State Historical park hosts Christmas at the Codys’, with every nook and cranny in the beautiful Cody mansion decorated by local nonprofit organizations. The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission decorates the grounds with thousands of lights. The event is rounded out with Christmas entertainment, horsedrawn rides, cider, cookies and roasted chestnuts. The Lincoln County Historical Museum is transformed into a Christmas Village as local individuals and businesses adopt all of the historic structures to decorate for the holidays. Both events are scheduled for weekends leading up to Christmas. From Thanksgiving weekend through Christmas Eve, North Platte’s Cody Park is transformed into Santa’s Workshop in a tradition that dates back nearly 75 years. Fifteen tiny houses are home to animated Christmas displays, and can be enjoyed from the comfort of your car or from tractor and horsedrawn hayrack rides. Entertainment program, Carousel rides, fire pits and Santa complete the winter wonderland.

Chimney Rock Pony Express Station 27 min Gering to Bayard

Chimney Rock Brid National Historic Site 88

Harrisburg Banner County Historical Museum

1 hr.

3 min

71

Oliver Reservoir Recreation Area Bushnell 30

Kimball

18 min

ne Cheyen From

Plains Historical Museum Dix

Railroad Museum Potter

2 Duckpin Bowling Alley

39 min

71

Tri-State Marker Nebraska’s Highest Point 1 Panorama Point

For more information about North Platte, contact the North Platte/Lincoln County VB at (800) 955-4528.

SANDHILL CRANE TOURS – NORTH PLATTE

Bayar Rock

McGrew

Wildcat Hills Nature Center

Maxwell When Fort Cottonwood was renamed Fort McPherson in 1886, its soldiers were already fetching great-tasting water from the well of John “Mac” McCullough. Soon, other travelers were stopping. As a community formed, it was decided to name it after Mac’s well. Maxwell was born.

A newly erected Veterans Memorial honoring local veterans and service men and women adorns the route through town to Fort McPherson National Cemetery. Maxwell Heritage Day, generally the third weekend in August welcomes visitors and former residents home to celebrate the community.

Peace reigns at Fort McPherson National Cemetery south of Maxwell. Soldiers from conflicts dating to the Indian Wars, including four Medal of Honor recipients, are interred here. The cemetery was founded in 1873.

The original Pony Express route and Oregon Trail passed through what is now the cemetery.

One mile southeast of the cemetery a stone monument marks the site of the flagstaff of the frontier military post.

Brady

On the eastern end of Nebraska’s Wild West Country, Brady is home to several outdoor adventures. Jeffrey Canyon Reservoir, known for its massive flathead catfish and largemouth bass, is 5 miles south and 1 mile west of Brady.

Potter’s Pasture, in the beautiful hills south of Brady, consists of 1,300 acres of privately-owned land crisscrossed with 15 miles of mountain biking trails, 27747-30499 S. Brady Rd.

Recreation Area

rd Chimney k Museum

National Wildlife Refuge

25

Northport Pioneer Trails Museum

dgeport

92

Court House and Jail Rocks

61

Arthur

Wes te

rn T rails

27

Byw

ay

hP

Dalton

92

latt

eR

ive

53 min.

r

27

Sidney

Sunol

30 Pony Express 4 5 National Monument Hillside 16 min Golf Cabela’s Retail Store and Wildlife Exhibit 19 Course Lorenzo

Bergstrom Rock & Gem Collection

54 min.

Lewellen

8 Haythorn

Ash Hollow State Historical Park

97

32 min.

92

L a ke

McCo

44 min.

50 min.

Lodgepole Chappell

30 min. Sidney to Chappell

92

18 min.

Gurley

Lodgepole Depot Museum

29 min.

Oshkosh

385

Fort Sidney Post Commander’s Home

Ringold Stapleton

Historical Museum

26

L incol n By 3 wa y 80

Tryon

Lisco Nort

Prairie Schooner Museum

83

Broadwater

naug

hy

7

Sudman-Neumann Heritage House Big Springs

30

Brule 80

39 min.

Ogallala to Chappell

Ogallala Mansion on the Hill

Sutherland

Little Church Boot Hill of Keystone Roscoe

13 California Hill Historical Marker

Kingsley Dam/ Hydro Plant

6 Front Street Petrified Wood Gallery

61

Buffalo Bill State Historical Park Hershey 30

Paxton

11

The Rail Road Museum

Ole’s Big Game Steakhouse & Lounge

Golden Spike Tower & Visitors Fort Cody Center Trading Post

Sutherland Reservoir

47 min.

Ogallala to North Platte

North Platte

10

9

80

Fort McPherson National Cemetery

Lake Maloney

25

Maxwell 12

Brady 30 From

Om aha

Mormon Trail

30 min.

40 min.

North Platte to Dickens

Madrid Brandon 15 min.

Grant

Elsie

57 min.

Grant to Dickens

Oregon Trail

Dickens Grainton

Wallace

23

83

Attractions #WILD WEST 1 Panorama Point 2 Potter sundry 3 Lincoln Highway 4 National Pony Express monument 5 Cabela's 6 Front Street 7 Lake mcconaughy

8 Haythorn ranch 9 Sutherland reservoir 10 golden Spike tower at bailey yard 11 buffalo bill ranch state historical park 12 fort mcPherson national cemetery 13 bird watching

In August, this small town celebrates Brady Days big with a barbeque meal, classic car show, live music, children’s games and a parade. Long lines form at the dunking booth, and there is a softball tournament, too. villageofbrady.org.

the Veterans Memorial Park boasts a halfmile long walking trail, playground and outdoor exercise equipment along with a baseball and softball field. Each year on the final weekend in August the Hershey Fall Festival provides family fun for residents and visitors alike.

Hershey |

pg. 55

Stones and Bones Gallery and Emporium offers a unique assemblage of Stone Age artifacts and fossils from Western Nebraska, along with antique firearms and Western and wildlife art. (308) 368-7400.

Hershey’s annual Christmas in the Park takes place in December when local homes are dressed to the nines and visitors can take a holiday ride in an old Hershey fire truck.

(308) 368-5840.

The new Tranquility Park along the new bypass route on the south edge of town adjacent to the existing Washington Park is taking shape with landscaping and a proposed water feature and walking path. Along Highway 30,

Sutherland |

pg. 55

Sutherland Reservoir offers swimming, camping, birdwatching and fishing. Releases of warm water from the Gerald Gentleman Station power plant mean open water fishing opportunities through the winter. Hundreds of bald eagles and thousands of waterfowl flock here during winter.

Prehistoric Wonders Settling the west The Great OutDoors Pioneer trails One-of-a-Kinds Unique Geology Welcome Centers/Rest Areas

Sutherland’s new Anchor Memorial Park in the northeast part of town boasts a dog park for both large and small dogs, playground and disc golf course. The swimming pool is located along Highway 30 on the west edge of town.

Kiddies will enjoy the zero-depth entrance, small frog slide and large water slide for summer fun.

At the Village Office, the Sutherland History Center features memorabilia and biographies of Sutherland’s citizens, school, civic and business community. The annual Independence Day celebration is one of the largest in the area, with a rodeo on July 3 and 4, and a full day of family fun and entertainment on July 4.

Oregon Trail Golf Course is a nine-hole course on the north shore of Sutherland Reservoir. The course’s grass bunkers challenge even the best golfers. (308) 386-4653.

Wild west • WestNebraska.com • 47

Sidney |

pg. 56

Outlaws, gamblers and other riffraff made this railroad town one of the roughest places in all of the American West way back in the 1870s. Stay on the train, lock all the doors and you’ll be fine.

Unless there’s a train robbery.

Sidney began in 1867 as an Army fort guarding Union Pacific Railroad workers from hostile Native Americans. With the discovery of gold in the nearby Black Hills, Sidney became a trailhead for determined gold seekers. The boomtown days brought easy money for some and outlaws that many had to contend with. Legend has it that one single city block in Sidney once held 23 saloons. Gives history meaning to the idea of bar-hopping, don’t you think?

The tales of Sidney’s rowdy past are many. One local favorite is an incident in which a man was shot and killed at a raucous dance. The body was propped up in a corner and the dancing went on. Another man was shot and likewise displayed. The party only came to its bloody end after the third shooting. Good times.

The community of 6,300 residents is home to Cabela’s first retail store. Brothers Dick and Jim Cabela started the “World’s Foremost Outfitter” at their kitchen table in Chappell and grew it to over 87 stores. See the first “Cabela’s Mountain” with mounted wildlife from all over the world.

115 Cabela Dr. Near the Cabela’s store is the Pony Express National Monument. The monument’s flags can be seen from a long distance by travelers motoring on I-80.

»

« Sidney Barracks was established in 1867

to protect Union Pacific Railroad track layers.

In 1869, the post was relocated to the present site at Sidney. It was renamed Fort Sidney and was active through the Indian Wars. The fort had 40 buildings. It closed in 1894. Three buildings remain in what is now a residential neighborhood.

The grounds of the former Boot Hill Cemetery, established by the military in 1868, have been restored and features interpretive panels with stories of some of the people buried there. The cemetery was used until 1889, and 211 bodies were removed and relocated in 1922.

48 • Destination western nebraska 2020

The Boot Hill Cemetery Committee has restored Camp Lookout. The outpost built by soldiers from Fort Sedgwick, Colorado, later became Sidney Barracks on the corner of Elm Street and 10th Avenue.

At Sixth and Jackson streets, Fort Sidney Museum and Post Commander’s Home consists of the Officer’s Quarters, now a museum of Sidney’s colorful past, and the Post Commander’s Home, which has been restored with original and other period furnishings. The third building is an octagonal stone structure once used as the military fort’s powder magazine. It is at 1047 Fifth Ave. All three buildings are well preserved and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Fort Sidney Complex is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday-Friday, and 1-4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Memorial Day-Labor Day. (308) 254-2150. Annual Christmas Lamplight tours are popular and take place the Friday after Thanksgiving from 6-9 p.m. The building remains open for the holidays Saturdays and Sundays through December from 1-4 p.m.

Christ Episcopal Church in Sidney was built in 1866 and was the original church for Fort Sidney. Worshippers gather today at 1205 10th Ave. in the very same building where Native Americans and the area’s early settlers once worshipped together.

In 1942, half a century after Fort Sidney closed, Sidney became home to Sioux Army Depot.

Located 6 miles west and 2 miles north of Sidney, it once covered 36 square miles. The facility closed in 1967. It's igloo-shaped bunkers are on private property although, they are visible from the county roads.

Sidney is the only Western Nebraska community with a “Historic District” designation thanks to 29 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places.

When a local man suggested erecting a flagpole for War Memorial in Legion Park and Memorial Gardens, residents decided to go big to honor the sacrifice of Cheyenne County’s veterans. Volunteers and local companies converted an interstate light pole into a flag pole. At 140 feet, it is the tallest flagpole in Nebraska. The flag is 20 feet tall and 38 feet wide.

The park features a railroad monument, pond, docks, playground and a gazebo popular with visitors simply wanting to relax and take in the serenity. Living Memorial Gardens is home of “Nebraska’s First Angel of Hope” (based on the Christmas Box Angel). A trail begins here and winds throughout the community’s most scenic neighborhoods.

For visitors seeking a workout, Cheyenne County Community Center, 627 Toledo St., offers indoor basketball and racquetball courts, running tracks, weightlifting equipment, shower facilities and more. Daily passes are available.

Open year-round Monday-Friday, 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Saturday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Sunday, noon to 6 p.m. (308) 254-7000.

Aquatic exercise opportunities flow from the six-lane competition pool at Sidney Aquatics Center. Water polo and the aquatic versions of volleyball and basketball entertain teams while the Tree House Slide and Water Bug spray dome delight younger visitors. Open Memorial Day-Labor Day. Located on the scenic bluffs overlooking Sidney, Hillside Municipal Golf Course incorporates the area’s rugged Western Terrain into its 18-hole adventure. The course twists through a beautiful canyon and offers spectacular views of Sidney and the surrounding countryside.

(308) 254-2311.

Test your marksmanship skills at Sidney Shooting Park with trap and skeet ranges, a new pistol range, and a 1-mile archery course. ATA registered shoots and steel challenge matches are held during the summer months, as well as league shooting. From I-80 exit 59, go north to U.S. Highway 30, then west to Greenwood Road, then 1.1 miles north. Prices and hours can be found at www.sidneyshootingpark.com.

In 1874, a military expedition led by George Armstrong Custer discovered gold in the Black Hills in neighboring South Dakota. Though a treaty reserved the Black Hills for the Sioux tribe, the Army stopped enforcing it. Interlopers trespassed by the thousands and soon an unstoppable gold rush was underway.

It led to a tragic war between the Sioux and the United States, a war in which Custer himself was famously killed during the Battle of the Little Bighorn.

Potter

For would-be gold miners with nothing left to lose, Sidney became a popular jumping-off place for treks overland by horse, oxen, mule and wagon up the 267-mile Sidney-to-Deadwood Trail. Through the early 1880s, the twisting trail carried a majority of the gold rush traffic, including rich shipments of gold from the Black Hills in South Dakota.

| pg. 55

There are many reasons to visit Potter. One of them is dessert. The Potter Sundry is an original soda fountain serving old-fashioned food, phosphates and ice cream. This is where the Tin Roof Sundae was invented.

Open for breakfast and lunch, Monday-Friday.

(308) 879-4548.

On Highway 30 west of town, a marker indicates where trail ruts are visible. Highway 30 is the old Lincoln Highway, the nation’s first paved coastto-coast auto route.

The Duckpin Bowling alley next door is believed to be the only one west of the Mississippi River. (308) 879-4451.

The Nebraska portion of U.S. Highway 385 is designated as the Gold Rush Byway. From South Dakota to the Colorado state line, the scenic highway connects Sidney with the Western Nebraska communities of Bridgeport, Alliance and Chadron. Vistas are epic along this road.

It follows the old trail for much of the way and rolls through some of the most spectacular scenery in Nebraska. Heading north from Sidney, the highway passes through Gurley and Dalton before descending dramatically into the North Platte Valley beside Courthouse and Jail rocks near Bridgeport. If you’re looking for the rugged West, you’ve found it here.

Ricky and Lucy’s Country Gift Shop is housed in a renovated 1800s barn. Their organic farm offers herbs and spices, dips and medicinal herbs. They also have a gift shop with Roman-inspired fountains, pottery and a large inventory of gift items. 11732 Road 32, (877) 254-2204.

About six miles west of Sidney, the I-80 Golden Link marks where the final segment of Interstate 80 was completed back in 1974. A piece of the link, a 6-inch strip of brass plate is now located in the eastbound rest area which signifies the joining of the eastern and western United States through I-80.

For more information about Sidney, contact the Sidney/Cheyenne County Tourism.

(308) 254-4030.

Railroad Museum displays Union Pacific Railroad history. Potter Historical Museum preserves the local history of agriculture and pioneer life. Reach both at (308) 879-4356.

Prairie Pines Golf Course is a scenic 7-hole course. 7-Hole Golf Course? Sure, it’s an odd number, so why not shoot 14 at the only 7-hole public golf course in Nebraska? (308) 879-4469.

Sidney

2020 Events

GOLD RUSH DAYS

Second weekend in June. Sidney relives its historic role as a jumping off point for prospectors traveling the Sidney to Deadwood Trail. The Old West comes alive with quick draw competitions, a chuck wagon cookout, gold panning demonstration, wagon rides, cannon firing, live music, blacksmithing, spinning, woodworking, weaving and plenty of enjoyment for all. www.sidneygoldrushdays.org.

CHEYENNE COUNTY FAIR AND RODEO Mid-July. This county fair reaches to the roots of such events with marksmanship contests and 4-H exhibits, livestock shows and judging, an exciting rodeo, dog show, games for all ages, fair food, dancing and live entertainment.

(308) 250-1976.

OKTOBERFEST AND CRUISIN’ CLASS CAR SHOW Point of Rocks, where railroad crews and Native Americans clashed, is 3 miles east of Potter on U.S. Highway 30.

Point of Rocks Motel and Campground, located beneath the Point, is in a scenic spot near U.S. Highway 30.

For more information about Potter, contact the Cheyenne County Visitors Committee at VisitSidneyNE.com or (308) 254-4030.

First full weekend in October. The Oktoberfest is continuous free entertainment, a great variety of food and beer from noon to midnight Friday and Saturday in the big tent plus two buildings of crafts, the O’fest market and Weiner Dog Races all at the Cheyenne County Fairgrounds. A parade downtown, golf tournament, fun run and the Cruisin Class show and shine in Legion Park all happens in Sidney on Saturday.

(308) 254-4441.

LAMPLIGHT TOURS

Lodgepole

The day after Thanksgiving. Fort Sidney Museum and Post Commander’s Home come alive every year for this festive gala. Enjoy hot cider and cookies while touring historic rooms extravagantly decorated for the holidays.

(308) 254-2150.

Lodgepole Depot Museum displays pony express items and antique farm implements.

(308) 483-5353.

Potter

Lodgepole honors its founders during Old Settlers’ Days with a barbeque, parade and tractor pull on Labor Day weekend.

(308) 483-5353.

Dalton

South Park has picnic areas, a playground and a basketball court. North Park has plenty of shade and the Prairie Schooner Museum along Highway 385. Featuring a log cabin and detailed railroad engine models. (308) 377-2413.

Gurley

Fanny’s Fruit Farm celebrates summer and fall with pick-your-own raspberries, Mr. McGregor’s Garden, haunted barn and hayrack rides and a corn maze. 11549 Rd. 46. (408) 249-2266.

2020 Events

POTTER CAR BOWL June. Enjoy a car show, melodrama, fireworks, food vendors and other fun activities to benefit local nonprofit groups.

(308) 879-4451.

POTTER DAYS Labor Day weekend. This annual event includes a fun run, duck races, prize drawings, games, food vendors and a parade. Enjoy duckpin bowling and tin roof sundaes all weekend long. (308) 879-4332.

Pine Ridge • WestNebraska.com • 49

Stay in

MODERN LUXURY

PETRIFIED WOOD & ART GALLERY “What a fascinating place to visit!”

“Truly a hidden gem.”

at the new Holiday Inn Express

Book a room for your Ogallala trip. Enjoy a day at Lake McConaughy, tour the beautiful Mansion on the Hill, and stop at the historic Boot Hill cemetery.

You’ll love your large, clean room, the hot buffet breakfast and business center amenities. Ask about accommodations for furry friends.

206 Pony Express Ln. Ogallala, Nebraska

308-284-6080 • ihg.com Located by I-80 and Hwy 61

TRAVEL WITH YOU

IN MIND

Visit this incredible collection of ancient woods, fine Western art, gemstones, fossils, and Native American arrowheads and artifacts.

418 E 1ST, OGALLALA, NE • 308-284-9996 OPEN YEAR ROUND • SEASONAL HOURS UNIQUE GIFT SHOP • GROUP TOURS AVAILABLE ADMISSION: FREEWILL DONATION PRESENTED BY THE KEITH COUNTY VISITORS COMMITTEE WWW.OGALLALATRAILS.COM

GRAIN BIN

Antique

TOWN

Explore 20 historic wooden granaries filled with treasured gems from the past.

We’re not just an antique shop, we’re something to see!

Open year round Wed-Sat, 10:30 am-5pm Call for extened summer hours

10641 Old Hwy 83 Rd North Platte Call 308.539.7401 for directions

All your needs in one place – Exit 59. Take time to unwind.

Founded in 1867 by the Union Pacific Railroad, jumping off-point for Black Hills Gold, and home to Cabela’s first retail store, Sidney has become the place to stay while traveling in Western Nebraska. Located right on Interstate 80, we’re the perfect place to refuel and recharge on your journey, whether it’s a quick fill-up, a comfortable stay in one of the 600 motel rooms, stopping for a quick bite or for a dining experience. We will make you feel right at home as you explore all of Western Nebraska, eastern Wyoming or NE Colorado. Plan a visit during one of Cheyenne County’s many unique community events and festivals. Follow I-80 to Exit 59 for homestyle food, fresh air and down-home hospitality.

VisitSidneyNE.com 50 • Destination western nebraska 2020

Swing into Iron Eagle Golf Course

Discover the beauty of the PlatteValley’s finest 18-hole public course just a three-iron off Nebraska I-80.

Call 1.308.535.6730 for tee times or book at ironeaglegolf.com

Lemoyne |

pg. 59

The original community of Lemoyne was flooded when Lake McConaughy filled in 1941. In dry summers, the old foundations of its buildings are sometimes exposed. The relocated community is holding its own today. With sandy beaches, boat docks, recreational facilities, fuel, bait, food, resorts, lodging and storage available nearby, little Lemoyne is a relaxing place to be for a hot day, summer or lifetime.

Vogl’s Lodge & Lure offers lodging, fishing tackle, supplies, fuel, groceries and bait just north of Highway 92. (308) 355-2321.

Travelers can join locals for homemade lunches, see a display of fossils found near the lake and receive fishing advice at Lemoyne Senior Center.

(308) 726-5753.

Ogallala |

pg. 61

In the 1870s and 1880s, Ogallala was the end of the trail as cowboys drove herds of longhorns up from Texas to be shipped east on the Union Pacific Railroad. After several long, hard months in the saddle, cowboys were ready for a rip-roaring good time when they reached town.

Visitors to Nebraska’s “Cowboy Capital” can enjoy Wild West entertainment at Front Street.

Crystal Palace Revue and Shoot Out is Nebraska’s longest-running summer theater, a musical comedy family show where dance hall girls kick up their heels and shots ring out. Adjacent attractions are Front Street Steakhouse and the Cowboy Museum, a free museum that includes a jail, barbershop, funeral parlor and authentic cowboy and Native American artifacts. (308) 284-6000.

The renowned Petrified Wood Gallery is at 418 E. First St. It features the petrified wood art of twin brothers Howard and Harvey Kenfield, as well as fossils, gemstones, geodes, Western sculpture and Native American artifacts collected locally.

(308) 284-9996.

Museum on the Hill was Ogallala’s finest home when it was built in 1887. Open Memorial Day through mid-September at the corner of Spruce and 10th streets.

Three blocks west of the mansion on 10th street is the original Ogallala cemetery, long known as Boot Hill for the cowboys who were “buried with their boots on.” Haythorn Land & Cattle Co. is a fifth-generation ranch offering wagon rides and chuck wagon dinners to visitors wanting a taste of the old ways. (308) 355-4000.

What the old-time cowboys needed but didn’t have was a really big lake in which to cool off.

Eight miles north of Ogallala, Lake McConaughy is Nebraska’s largest irrigation reservoir. At full capacity, McConaughy is 4 miles wide, 22 miles long and 142 feet deep at the dam with more than 100 miles of shoreline. When irrigation season is in full swing, miles of white sand beaches provide the perfect perch for a summer vacation.

Just below Kingsley Dam is Lake Ogallala.

It covers half a square mile and offers excellent fishing for rainbow trout and yellow perch. This reservoir is often called “Ogallala’s Little Lake.”

South of Ogallala at Meadowlark Hill, one might expect to see birds. What people come here to see, and smell, are lilacs in full bloom. Max and Darlene Peterson’s passion has grown to fill 14 acres with the flower, and it’s the world’s largest private collection of lilacs. (308) 284-2524.

Contact the Ogallala/Keith County Chamber of Commerce at (800) 658-4390.

Keystone |

pg. 60

Keystone is home to the Little Church of Keystone. The town was too small for two churches, so residents built this one as a combined Catholic/Protestant church in 1908.

There is a Catholic altar at one end and a Protestant one at the other. Reversible pews face either way. (800) 658-4390.

Paxton |

pg. 60

The town of Brule is 9 miles west of Ogallala. The annual Brule Day event includes a parade, fun run, egg toss, street dance, flower show, races and food stands. (308) 287-2596.

Big Springs |

2020 Events

EAGLE VIEWING—LAKE MCCONAUGHY/ LAKE OGALLALA Late December through February. Water discharged from the Kingsley Hydroplant creates open water on Lake Ogallala, attracting bald eagles, waterfowl, gulls and other birds. Viewing takes place in the heated facility below the dam.

(800) 658-4390.

Kimball County 2020 Events

KIMBALL BANNER COUNTY FAIR First full week of August. Featuring 4-H animal shows, free barbeque, a mare and foal parade, and rodeos; Farmer’s Day weekend – the last weekend in September, featuring a parade, craft fair, free barbeque and more; Parade of Lights – generally the Saturday after Thanksgiving, featuring the parade, soup supper, craft fair, and Santa!

KIMBALL RANCH RODEO–KIMBALL June. Competitors from surrounding states ride broncs, mil wild cows, load trailers and brand cattle. Vendors will keep everyone fed and a beer garden will flow, too. Real cowboys show the skills they use everyday. (308) 241-1760.

FLAG DAYS–CHAPPELL

pg. 60

Ole’s Big Game Streakhouse began as a bar in downtown Paxton. Original owner Ole Herstedt decorated it with the antlered head of a deer he shot, and followed that with more than 200 big game trophies over the next three decades. Great food and drink accompany the menagerie known around the world. 123 N. Oak St. (308) 239-4500.

Brule |

Keith County

June. Celebrate Nebraskan and American pride with a car show, kids' fishing derby, city-wide garage sales, parade, special deals from local merchants and much more. (308) 974-9912.

FARMER'S DAY–KIMBALL September. Kimball honors those who grow our food with this flavorful smorgasbord of fun. Last year's Hamburger Feed had 2,000 burgers grilling. Events include a demolition derby, gun raffle, air show, beer garden, dance and pancake feed. kimballbannercountychamber.com.

pg. 59

Texas outlaw Sam Bass and his gang robbed a train of $60,000 in gold and currency here in 1877.

A marker at Eiker Park tells the story of the heist.

Phelps Hotel was built in 1993 to house railroad workers. It is open for tours by appointment.

(308) 889-3625.

Wild west • WestNebraska.com • 51

Chappell |

pg. 59

Travelers see lots of grain elevators along I-80, but none like the Farmer’s Elevator with a giant American flag painted on its south side.

Golfers swing at the nine-hole Chappell Golf Course. (308) 874-2729, which is right next to Chappell Lake where anglers cast for bass, bluegill and catfish.

Sudman-Neumann Heritage House at Fifth and Vincent streets is restored to its 1911 glory.

The architecture includes an interesting dogleg staircase. (308) 874-3441.

For more information, contact Chappell Tourist Information at (308) 874-2401.

North Platte

Kimball |

pg. 60

Kimball is the Oil Capital of Nebraska. It began as a railroad construction camp. Because of large herds of pronghorn in the area, the railroad called the new station Antelope, and the new village, Antelopeville.

In 1885, the settlement was renamed for railroad executive Thomas Kimball.

Kimball’s history is displayed downtown at Plains Historical Museum, 200 S. Chestnut St. (308) 241-0573.

The community has also been known as “Missile Center, U.S.A.” The area’s first Atlas missile site was completed in 1961. Kimball bills itself as the “high Point of Nebraska.” The elevation of Panorama Point in 5,424 feet. It is easily walked to. Kimball Area Tourism offers tongue-in-cheek certificates to those who reach the summit.

Call (308) 241-0573. Nearby, Tri-State Marker shows the spot where Nebraska, Wyoming and Colorado meet.

HOTELS & MOTELS

PHONE

ROOMS

America's Best Value Inn Travelers Inn 602 E. 4th St., I-80 Exit 177, 1 1/2 mi. N. on US Hwy 83, 6 blks E., North Platte, www.bestvalueinn.com

308-534-4020 888-315-2378

32

Baymont Inn & Suites 451 Halligan Dr., I-80 Exit 177, North Platte

308-535-9900

Best Western Plus North Platte Inn & Suites 3201 S. Jeffers, I-80 & US Hwy 83 S., North Platte

Oliver Reservoir Recreation Area has a 270-acre lake for fishing and boating, and sandy beaches.

(308) 254-2377.

Four Wings Golf Course is two miles east of town. The 18-hole greens fee is good for as many holes as you can play in a day.

(308) 235-4241.

For more information on Kimball, contact Kimball Area Tourism. High Point Welcome Center of Western Nebraska has all the brochures and personal Kimball-area travel advice needed for a fulfilling visit. 204 Kimball Blvd. (308) 241-0573.

Harrisburg

Turning north from Kimball, State Highway 71 will take you to Harrisburg Banner County Museum is an 11-building complex with a 19th century log schoolhouse, sod house, log cabin, 1910 barn, pioneer church and the old Banner County Bank.

(308) 575-0808.

AMENITIES

RATE RANGE

Outdoor pool, pets allowed

1-75

124

Wheelchair accessible, restaurant on premises, free continental breakfast, pets allowed

51-75

308-534-3120

146

Outdoor pool, free continental breakfast, pets allowed

51-75+

Comfort Inn 2809 Halligan Dr., North Platte

308-870-7900

90

Wheelchair accessible, free hot breakfest, Laundry facility

51-75+

Quality Inn 2901 S. Jeffers St., I-80 Exit 177 S., North Platte www.comfortinn.com/hotel/ne021

308-532-6144 800-228-5150

90

Wheelchair accessible, indoor pool, free continental breakfast, pets allowed

51-75+

Days Inn 3102 S. Jeffers, I-80 Exit 177, 1 blk S., North Platte www.daysinn.com

308-532-9321 800-329-7466

82

Wheelchair accessible, indoor pool, free continental breakfast

75+

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott 319 W. South River Rd., North Platte www.marriott.com/lbffi

308-532-9900 888-236-2427

82

Wheelchair accessible, indoor pool, free continental breakfast

75+

Hampton Inn 200 Platte Oasis Pkwy, I-80 Exit 177 & US Hwy 83, North Platte, www.hampton-inn.com/hi/northplatte

308-534-6000 800-426-7866

110

Wheelchair accessible, indoor pool, free continental breakfast

75+

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites and Convention Center 300 Holiday Frontage Rd., North Platte www.hiexpress.com/northplattene

308-532-9500 800-562-9500

152

Wheelchair accessible, indoor pool, free continental breakfast, pets allowed

75+

North Platte Inn & Suites 1209 S. Dewey, North Platte

308-532-0130 800-678-4025

77

Restaurant on premises, indoor pool, free continental breakfast, pets allowed

51-75+

Husker Inn 721 E. 4th St., North Platte

308-534-6960

20

Wheelchair accessible

1-50

Knights Inn 501 Halligan Dr., I-80 Exit 177, North Platte www.knightsinn.com

308-532-0151 888-532-0151

81

Restaurant on premises, outdoor pool, free continental breakfast, pets allowed

1-75

52 • Destination western nebraska 2020

HOTELS & MOTELS

PHONE

ROOMS

LaQuinta Inn & Suites 2600 Eagles Wings Place, I-80 Exit 179, North Platte www.821.lq.com

308-534-0700 866-534-0700

65

Wheelchair accessible, indoor pool, free continental breakfast, pets allowed

75+

Motel 6 1520 S. Jeffers St., North Platte, www.motel6.com

308-534-6200 800-466-8356

61

Wheelchair accessible, outdoor pool, pets allowed

1-50

Park Motel 1302 N. Jeffers, N. US Hwy 83, North Platte

305-532-6834

27

Ramada By Wyndham 2102 S. Jeffers St., I-80 & US Hwy 83, North Platte www.sandhillcc.com

308-532-9090 800-760-333

196

83 Motel 920 N. Jeffers St., North Platte

308-532-2313

Super 8 Motel 220 Eugene Ave., I-80 Exit 177, North Platte www.super8.com Tru by Hilton North Platte 2400 Halligan Dr., North Platte

UNIQUE LODGING Mc Neil House Bed & Brew at Pals Book online at AirBnB.com

CAMPGROUNDS

AMENITIES

RATE RANGE

•

•

Wheelchair accessible, restaurant on premises, indoor pool, free continental breakfast, pets allowed

51-75

38

Outdoor pool, free continental breakfast, pets allowed

51-75

308-532-4224 800-800-8000

111

Wheelchair accessible, free continental breakfast, pets allowed

51-75

308-532-8700

98

Wheelchair accessible, complimentary breakfast, pets allowed

•

PHONE

AMENITIES

RATE RANGE

308-221-6715

Cute Cottage in the woods, sleeps 4. Walk to Pals Brewing Co.

•

PHONE

OPEN

AMENITIES

FEES

Buffalo Bill Ranch SRA 2921 Scouts Rest Ranch Rd., US Hwy 83 N., to US Hwy 30, 2 mi. W., 1 mi. N., North

308-535-8035

Year Round

Cody Park Campground 1601 N. Jeffers, N. US Hwy 83 www.ci.north-platte.ne.us/publicservices

308-535-6700

May 1Oct. 15

Holiday RV Park & Campground 601 Halligan Dr., I-80 Exit 177, N.E. quadrant, North Platte, www.holidayparkne.com

308-534-2265 800-424-4531

Year Round

RV Amenities: electricity, water sewer, room for 92 trailers. Rest Facilities: showers, flush toilets. Camping: 8 tents

Call for rates

Lake Maloney SRA N. Lake Road, 5 mi. S., North Platte www.outdoornebraska.gov

308-535-8025

•

RV Amenities: electricity, water, room for 120 toilets. Rest Facilities: Showers, flush and pit toilets. Camping: 50 tents

7-14 NE Park Permit

6-15 80/week

Call for rates

RV Amenities: electricity, water, room for 23 trailers. Rest Facilities: pit toilets. Camping: 12 tents No Reservations Required Room for 40 trailers. Rest Facilities: Flush toilets

CB's Hideaway 206 N. Lake Rd., North Platte

308-539-3985

Year Round

RV Amenities: electricity (year-round), water, sewer, room for 30 trailers. Full hookups April.-Oct. Rest Facilities: showers, flush toilets. Camping: 15 tents

I-80 Lakeside Campground 3800 Hadley Dr., I-80 Exit I-179, N.E. quadrant, North Platte

308-534-5077 877-648-2267

May 15Sept. 15

RV Amenities: electricity, water, sewer, room for 54 trailers. Rest Facilities: showers, flush toilets. Camping: 16 tents

Lincoln Hwy RV Park 4684 W Hwy 30 North Platte, lincolnhighwayrvpark.publishpath.com

308-534-4910 877-534-4910

•

GOLF COURSES

RV Amenities: 50 sites, pull through sites, water, sewer

7-13 NE Park Permit

5

30-50

PHONE

HOLES & TYPE Call for hours & tee times.

RATE RANGE

Indian Meadows Public Golf Course 2746 W. Walker Rd., North Platte

308-532-6955

9, public

Under 15

Iron Eagle Golf Course 2401 Halligan Dr., N. of I-80 Exit 179, North Platte

308-535-6730

18, public

15-30

Lake Maloney Golf Club 608 Birdie Ln., 5 mi. S. of I-80 on US Hwy 83, 2 mi. W., North Platte

308-532-9998

18, public

15-30

Rivers Edge Golf Course 1008 W. 18th St., North Platte

308-532-7550

18, public

•

Wild west • WestNebraska.com • 53

Relax with Us!

Point of Rocks Motel and caMPgRound

North Platte - Exit 177

North Platte - Exit 177

• • • • •

• • • • •

Express Start Breakfast 24-hr Indoor Pool Jacuzzi & Exercise Room Conference Center for 350 Free Wifi

Call for Reservations: 308.532.9500 hiexpress.com

Full Hot Breakfast 24-hr Indoor Pool Jacuzzi & Exercise Room Free Wifi Meeting & Event Space

Call for Reservations: 308.534.3120 bestwestern.com

308.879.4400

2½ miles east of Potter on U.S. Hwy 30 Point of Rocks Motel Campground

54 • Destination western nebraska 2020

lake mcconaughy

Sutherland

&

HOTELS & MOTELS

Hershey PHONE

ROOMS

AMENITIES

RATE RANGE

Park Motel, 1110 First St., I-80 Exit 158, Sutherland

308-386-4384

19

•

1-75

CAMPGROUNDS

PHONE

OPEN

AMENITIES

FEES

Oregon Trail Mobile Estates, 31599 W. Park Rd., less than 2 mi. from I-80, Exit 158, Sutherland www.oregontrailmobileestates.com

308-386-4379

Year Round

RV Amenities: shady pull-through sites, full hook ups, 30 and 50 amp electric

7-20

Oregon Trail Park, 25 S. Tower Rd., 1 mi. S. of I-80, Exit 158, Sutherland, www.oregontrailgolfcoursene.org

308-386-4653

Mar.-Nov.

RV Amenities: electricity, water, room for 31 trailers. Rest Facilities: flush and pit toilets.

Camping: 10 tents

7-20

Sutherland SRA, 3 mi. S., Sutherland www.outdoornebraska.gov/sutherland

308-535-8025

Year Round

RV Amenities: water, room for 50 trailers.

Rest Facilities: pit toilets. Camping: 35 tents

7 NE Park Permit

Hidden Acres Campground 16501 W. Murray Rd., Hershey

308-368-7654

•

RV Amenities: electricity,water, sewer, room, for 18 trailers. Camping: 5 tents

12

GOLF COURSES Oregon Trail Golf Course, 1 mi. S., 1/4 mi., S. of I-80, Exit 158, 25 S. Tower Rd., Sutherland

Potter

HOTELS & MOTELS

Point of Rocks Motel & Campground 8175 US Hwy 30, Potter

CAMPGROUNDS Point of Rocks Motel & Campground 8175 US Hwy 30, Potter

GOLF COURSES Prairie Pines Golf Course, 402 Prairie Pine Dr., Potter

PHONE

HOLES & TYPE Call for hours & tee times.

RATE RANGE

308-386-4653

9, semi-private

Under 15

PHONE

ROOMS

AMENITIES

RATE RANGE

308-879-4400

9

In country setting

45-65

PHONE

OPEN

AMENITIES

FEES

308-879-4400

May - Nov.

PHONE 308-879-4469

RV Amenities: electricity, water, sewer, room for 24 trailers

HOLES & TYPE

Call for hours & tee times.

7, public

20-25

RATE RANGE Under 15

Wild west • WestNebraska.com • 55

Hillside golf course

Sidney

HOTELS & MOTELS

PHONE

ROOMS

America's Best Value Inn & Suites 2115 W. Illinois St., W. on US Hwy 30, Sidney

308-254-2081

58

Wheelchair accessible, free continental breakfast, pets allowed

51-75

Best Western Plus Sidney Lodge 645 Cabela Dr., I-80 Exit 59, Sidney www.bestwestern/us/ne/Sidney.com

308-254-0100

64

Wheelchair accessible, indoor pool, free continental breakfast pets allowed

75+

Blue Iron Oasis, 11552 US Hwy 30, 2 mi. N. of I-80, Exit 59, Jct US Hwys 30 & 385, Sidney

308-250-9911

9

Pets allowed

1-75

Country Inn & Suites, 664 Chase Blvd, Sidney

308-254-2000

85

Wheelchair accessible, restaurant on premises, indoor pool, pets allowed

75+

Comfort Inn and Suites, 825 Hoffies Dr., Sidney

308-254-4423

81

Wheelchair accessible, free continental breakfast, indoor pool, pets allowed

75+

Days Inn, 3042 Silverberg Dr., I-80 Exit 59, Sidney www.daysinn.com

308-254-2121

47

Wheelchair accessible, indoor pool, free continental breakfast, pets allowed

75+

Fairfield Inn and Suites, 889 E. Jennifer Ln., Sidney

308-254-9000

75

Wheelchair accessible, free continental breakfast, bar/lounge on premises, indoor pool

75+

Hampton Inn, 635 Cabela Dr., Sidney www.hamptoninn.com

308-254-2111

74

Wheelchair accessible, indoor pool, free continental breakfast

75+

Motel 6, 3040 Silverberg Dr., Sidney www.motel6.com

308-254-5463

47

Wheelchair accessible, pets allowed

•

Sidney Motor Lodge, 2031 Illinois St., W. US Hwy 30, Sidney

308-254-4581

18

Wheelchair accessible, pets allowed

1-75

Sleep 4 Le$$, 954 E. Elm St., I-80 Exit 59, 2 1/2 mi. N. to US Hwys 30 & 385, www.sleepforlessmotel.com

308-254-5011 877-220-0109

11

Pets allowed

51-75

Quality Inn, 730 E. Jennifer Ln., I-80 Exit 59, Sidney www.choicehotels.com

308-254-5011

54

Wheelchair accessible, indoor pool, free continental breakfast, pets allowed

CAMPGROUNDS

PHONE

OPEN

Cabela's Campground, I-80 Exit 59, Sidney

308-254-7889

Year Round

GOLF COURSES

PHONE

Hillside Golf Course, 2616 Hillside Dr., Sidney

56 • Destination western nebraska 2020

308-254-2311

AMENITIES

AMENITIES RV Amenities: electricity, water, room for 31 trailers. Rest Facilities: showers, flush toilets.

Camping: 6 tents

HOLES & TYPE

Call for hours & tee times.

18, public

RATE RANGE

75+

FEES Call for rates

RATE RANGE 15 - 30

Just one stay and you’ll see what makes us

SUPER! • New Remodel • Free SuperStart® Breakfast • Pets Accepted • Group Rates Available

& MORE!

NORTH PLATTE

I-80 & Hwy 83, Exit 117 • 308.532.4224 220 Eugene Ave, North Platte, NE 69101 SUPER8.COM | 1.800.800.8000 |

At the Dunes at Lake McConaughy

All properties individually owned and operated.

Cute open concept, 1 bedroom, 1 bath house with full kitchen, eating area, living room, and daybed with trundle in the main area. Located in the serene woods kitty corner from Pals Brewing Company. Enjoy the walking/bike path just steps away from property. House sleeps 4. Covered front porch, perfect for morning coffee while listening to the birds. Enjoy the fire pit for after Pals.

Stay includes $20 food voucher and 4 wooden nickels each good for a free pint at Pals.

Book on Airbnb.com or call 308.530.0889 today!

ENJOY THE LAKE all year round at white sandy beaches and a wildlife Discover town homes and lots to build your own getaway on for sale!

ce sin 63 19 303-521-6018

thedunesatlakemcconaughy.com 204 Hidden Canyon Estates ~ Brule, NE

North Platte's Premier Roadside Attraction!

I-80 & Hwy 83 Interchange • 221 Halligan Drive • North Platte • (308) 532-8081 Wild west • WestNebraska.com • 57

Let’s celebrate Brady Days

June 17-20

North Platte NEbraska

July 31st - August 2nd 2020

Buffalo Bill rodeo

Featuring three-time PRCA Specialty \Act of the Year Mexican Charro, Tomas Garcilazo

Ashley McBryde and Drew Parker

Brady welcomes you! villageofbrady.org

June 26

Luke Combs With Special Guests June 27

Everything needed for a fun filled weekend Barbecue, parade, car show, turtle races and great people!

Toby keith With Special Guests Mitchell Tenpenny and Meghan Patrick

nebraskalanddays.com

Journey to Deuel County

Making Unforgettable Memories

Cody

GO KARTS Family Fun Park

• • • • •

2 Go Kart Tracks 3 Water Slides Bumper Boats 18-Hole Mini Golf Kiddie Slides

308.534.8277 • codygokarts.com I-80 Exit 177 • 505 Halligan Dr. • North Platte

Curb Your Cravings

at the Canteen

Chappell and Big Springs offer a taste of small-town American Life. An abundance of wildlife provides great fishing and hunting in the area. Easily accessible from Interstate 80, restaurants, lodging, camping, and pioneer history await you. Journey to Deuel County for a relaxing vacation!

DEUEL COUNTY T O U R I S M

VISITDEUELCOUNTY.COM • 308.464.0983 PO BOX 14 • BIG SPRINGS, NE 69122 58 • Destination western nebraska 2020

CHEF LALANNE knows just how to treat hungry travelers. Relax in casual dining and enjoy succulent steak, superb seafood and many other great dishes.

Stop in today and enjoy the largest selection of wine in the area.

2102 S. JEFFERS, NORTH PLATTE, NE JUST NORTH OF I-80, EXIT 177

308.535.6168

CANTEENBARANDGRILLE.COM

Big Springs

&

HOTELS & MOTELS

Chappell PHONE

ROOMS

Motel 6, 111 Circle Rd., I-80 Exit 107, Big Springs

308-889-3671

62

UNIQUE LODGING

PHONE

AMENITIES

RATE RANGE

Phelps Hotel 401 Pine St., Big Springs

308-889-3580

Historic hotel built in 1885, rooms with shared and private bath

51-75+

The Bunkhouse B&B and Stables 30914 Cty Rd. 2, Big Springs www.cowboybunkhouse.com

308-464-1224

Rooms with private and shared bath, full breakfast, full kitchen, 2 full RV hookups and horse stables

51-78

CAMPGROUNDS

AMENITIES

RATE RANGE

Indoor pool, pets allowed

1-75

PHONE

OPEN

AMENITIES

FEES

Creekside RV Park, N. of I-80 Exit 85, Chappell

308-874-2267 888-871-2267

Year Round

RV Amenities: electricity, water, sewer, room for 28 trailers. Rest Facilities: shower, flush toilets. Camping: Unlimited tents

12-25

HQH Stables & Campground, 1625 Rd. 203, Big Springs, www.a-chordpublishing.com

877-241-8653

•

McGreer Camper Park, 693 Rd. 209, Big Springs www.mcgreercamperpark.com

308-889-5093

Apr.-Oct. 31

RV Amenities: electricity, water, sewer, room for 28 trailers. Rest Facilities: showers, flush toilets. Camping: 8 tents

25-30

The Bunkhouse RV Park and Stables 30914 Rd 2, 3 mi. S. of I-80 Exit 107, 1/2 mi. E., Big Springs

308-464-1224

Year Round

RV Amenities: electricity, water, sewer, room for 2 trailers. Rest Facilities: showers, flush toilets. Cabin rentals: 1

Call for rates

GOLF COURSES Oregon Trail Golf Course, US Hwy 385, Chappell

Lemoyne

HOTELS & MOTELS

PHONE

RV Amenities: electricity, water, room for 6 trailers. Riding area available 10-20

HOLES & TYPE

308-874-2729

Call for hours & tee times.

9, public

•

RATE RANGE 51-75

PHONE

ROOMS

Admiral’s Cove Resort 999 Lemoyne Rd., Lemoyne, Lake McConaughy Gate 6, wwwadmiralscoveresort.com

308-555-2102

23

Restaurant on premises, pets allowed

1-75+

North Shore Lodge, 5 North Shore Rd., Lemoyne, Hwy 92 near Lake McConaughy, www.northshorelodge.net

308-555-2222

21

Restaurant on premises, pets allowed

51-75+

Mesa View Lodge, 1290 Hwy 92 W., Lemoyne.

Lake McConaughy, www.homesatlakemac.com

308-355-5000 888-568-7620

10

Pets allowed

1-50

Vogl’s Lodge and Lure, 721 Hwy 92 W., Lake McConaughy, www.voglslodgeandlure.com

308-355-2321

12

Pets allowed

51-75+

PHONE

OPEN

Admiral’s Cove Resort, 999 Lemoyne Rd., Lemoyne Lake McConaughy Gate 6, wwwadmiralscoveresort.com

308-355-2102

May-Sept. 3

RV Amenities: electricity, water, room for 5 trailers. Rest Facilities: showers, flush toilets Camping: unlimited tents. Cabin Rentals: 25

15

North Shore Lodge, Lake McConaughy Gate 5, Lemoyne, www.northshorelodge.net

308-355-2222

•

RV Amenities: electricity, water, sewer, room for 23 trailers. Rest Facilities: showers, flush and pit toilets. Cabin Rentals: 18

Call for rates

CAMPGROUNDS

AMENITIES

RATE RANGE

AMENITIES

FEES

Wild west • WestNebraska.com • 59

Keystone, Paxton

&

HOTELS & MOTELS

PHONE

Days Inn, 851 Paxton Elsie Rd., I-80 Exit 145, Paxton

308-239-4510

UNIQUE LODGING

Brule ROOMS 34

AMENITIES Wheelchair accessible, restaurant on premises, free continental breakfast, pets allowed

RATE RANGE 1-75

PHONE

AMENITIES

RATE RANGE

Bayside Golf Club, 865 Lakeview West Rd., Brule

308-287-4653

Open Mar-Oct 30. Remodeled cabins, bedroom suites, full minikitchens, full baths, patios/decks, laundry, Wi-Fi and satellite TV

75+

The Beach House, Lake McConaughy, Keystone www.lakemacbeachhouse.com

308-762-2892

Luxury townhomes with lake views, rooms with shared and private bath

75+

CAMPGROUNDS

PHONE

OPEN

Eagle Canyon Hideaway, 1086 Lakeview W. Rd., Brule www.eagle-canyon.com

866-866-5253

Apr.-Sept.

Riverside Campground 1000 S. State St., I-80 Exit 117, Brule

308-287-2474 800-809-2921

Apr. 1-Oct. 30

The Lodge, 851 Paxton Elise Rd., I-80 Exit 145, Paxton

308-239-4510

Year Round

GOLF COURSES Bayside Golf Club, 865 Lakeview W. Rd., Brule

Kimball

HOTELS & MOTELS

PHONE

AMENITIES

FEES

RV Amenities: electric, water, sewer Rest Facilities: Wi-Fi, showers, flush toilets, rec room, swimming pool, playground and general store

25+

RV Amenities: electricity, water, sewer, room for 45 trailers. Rest Facilities: showers, flush toilets

15+

RV Amenities: electricity, water, sewer, room for 12 trailers. Camping: 12 tents

20

HOLES & TYPE

308-284-4358

Call for hours & tee times.

18, public

15-30

PHONE

ROOMS

1st Interstate Inn, 1704 S. County Rd. 41, Kimball www.1stinns.com

308-235-4601

29

Restaurant on premises, pets allowed

1-50

Days Inn, 611 E. 3rd St., Kimball, www.daysinn.com

308-235-4671

30

Wheelchair accessible, free continental breakfast, pets allowed

60-80+

Red Door Rentals, 607 E 3rd St., US Hwy 30, Kimball

308-230-2220

16

Internet/cable, kitchenette, wheelchair accessible, coffee shop/restaurant onsite.

Motel Kimball, 1017 E. 3rd St., E. US Hwy 30, Kimball

308-235-4606

16

Wheelchair accessible, pets allowed

45-60

Sleep 4 Less, 600 W. US Hwy 30, US Hwy 30, Kimball

308-230-2168

25

Pets allowed

50-70

Super 8 Motel, 1701 S. County Rd. 41, I-80 Exit 20, Kimball

308-235-4888

53

Wheelchair accessible, free continental breakfast, pets allowed

1-75+

PHONE

OPEN

308-254-2377

Year Round

CAMPGROUNDS Oliver Reservoir Recreation Area, 8 mi. W. on US Hwy 30, Kimball. 270 acres of water and 917 acres of land

GOLF COURSES Four Winds, 4530 Gilliland Dr., E. US Hwy 30, Kimball

60 • Destination western nebraska 2020

PHONE 308-235-4241

AMENITIES

RATE RANGE

AMENITIES RV Amenities: water, room for 75 trailers Rest Facilities: pit toilets. Camping: 100 tents, Dump site

HOLES & TYPE

Call for hours & tee times.

18 holes, public

RATE RANGE

•

FEES •

RATE RANGE 30

Ogallala

HOTELS & MOTELS

PHONE

ROOMS

Days Inn, 601 Stagecoach Trail, Ogallala www.daysinn.com

308-284-6365

31

Elms Motel 717 W. First St., Ogallala

308-284-3404

12

•

1-75

Holiday Inn Express & Suites 206 Pony Express Ln, Ogallala

308-284-6080

80

Handicap accessible, fitness room, pool, free breakfast, meeting room, pets no more than 50 lbs with a $35 deposit

90+

Kingsley Lodge, 1510 N. Hwy 61, Ogallala

308-284-2775

17

Pets allowed

1-75

Lazy K Motel, 1501 E. 1st St., Ogallala N. of I-80 Exit 126

308-284-4056

19

Air conditioning, free local calls, refrigerator, microwave oven, TV with cable channels, private bathroom, hair dryer & flat iron

1-50

Lonesome Dove Lodge, 501 Stagecoach Trail, Ogallala www.lonesomedovelodgene.com

308-284-2266

•

Free Wi-Fi, pet friendly, non-smoking property, spacious rooms, conference suites, complimentary breakfast bar, rec center

75+

Pump & Pantry Motel, 730 E. 1st St., Ogallala Turn right at the overpass, 5 blks

308-284-6119

15

Pets allowed

1-75

Quality Inn, 201 Chuckwagon Rd., Ogallala I-80 Exit 126 N., www.choicehotels.com

308-284-3623

101

Wheelchair accessible, restaurant on premises, outdoor pool, free continental breakfast, pets allowed

75+

Rodeway Inn, 108 Prospector Dr., I-80 Exit 126, Ogallala, www.rodewayinn.com

308-284-2056

40

Free continental breakfast, pets allowed

1-50

Super 8 Motel, 500 E. A St. S., I-80 Exit 126, Ogallala www.super8.com

308-284-2076

90

Wheelchair accessible, free continental breakfast, pets allowed

1-75

The Best Western Plus, 110 Pony Express Ln., Ogallala, www.bestwestern.com

308-284-7011

69

Handicap accessible, fitness room, pool, meeting room, free breakfast

51-75

Travelodge Stagecoach Inn, 201 Stagecoach Trail, Ogallala, www.bestwesternnebraska.com

308-284-3656

100

Wheelchair accessible, restaurant on premises, outdoor & indoor pool, free continental breakfast, pets allowed

51-75

CAMPGROUNDS

PHONE

OPEN

Cottonwood Grove, 1045 Keystone Roscoe Rd., Ogallala

308-284-2282

Year Round

RV Amenities: electricity, water, room for 10 trailers. Rest Facilities: showers, flush toilets Camping: 6 tents

20-30

Country View Campground, 120 Rd. E. 80, Ogallala I-80 Exit 126, S. 1/2 mi. left at John Deere www.cvcampground.com

308-284-2415

Year Round

RV Amenities: electricity, water, room for 50 trailers. Rest Facilities: showers, flush toilets Camping: 12 tents

27-30

Eagle Canyon Hideway, 1086 Lakeview W. Rd., Brule www.eagle-canyon.com

308-287-2673 866-866-5253

Feb. 28Dec. 30

RV Amenities: electricity, water, room for 21 trailers. Rest Facilities: showers, flush toilets Camping: 16 tents, Cabin Rentals: 17

Call for rates

Lake McConaughy SRA, 1475 NE Hwy 61 N., 9 mi. N.E. Ogallala, www.outdoornebraska.ne.gov

308-284-8800

Year Round

RV Amenities: electricity, water, room for 242 trailers. Rest Facilities: showers, flush and pit toilets. Camping: unlimited tents

Call for rates

Lake Ogallala SRA, 1475 NE Hwy 61, Ogallala. 10 mi.

N., E. side of dam, www.outdoornebraska.ne.gov

308-284-8800

Year Round

RV Amenities: electricity, water, room for 82 trailers. Rest Facilities: showers, flush and pit toilets. Camping: unlimited tents

Call for rates

Sleepy Sunflower RV Park, 221 Rd. E. 85, Ogallala. I-80 Exit 126 S., www.sleepysunflower.com

308-284-1300

Year Round

RV Amenities: electricity, water, sewer, room for 48 trailers. Rest Facilities: showers, flush toilets. Camping: 10 tents

23-26

Van’s Lake View Fishing Camp, Brule, 13 mi. N.W. of I-80 on US Hwy 26, #1 Lake View, www.vanslakeview.com

308-284-4965

May 1-Nov. 1

RV Amenities: electricity, water, sewer, room for 100 trailers. Rest Facilities: showers, flush and pit toilets. Camping 15 tents Cabin rentals: 2

28

GOLF COURSES West Wind Golf Club, 359 Rd. E. 85, Ogallala, 1 1/2 mi. E. of I-80 Exit 126

PHONE 308-284-4358

AMENITIES

RATE RANGE

Wheelchair accessible, free continental breakfast, pets allowed

AMENITIES

HOLES & TYPE

FEES

Call for hours & tee times.

18, public

1-75+

RATE RANGE 30+

Wild west • WestNebraska.com • 61

62 • Destination western nebraska 2020

MULLEN • ALLIANCE HEMINGFORD HYANNIS • ASHBY SENECA • THEDFORD HALSEY • TRYON ARTHUR • VALENTINE MERRIMAN • NENZEL & CODY BUILD SAND CASTLES IN NEBRASKA

Nebraska’s Sandhills is an expansive grassland that’s been compared to beautiful waves rolling in from the sea. Many believe this is the most beautiful part of Nebraska. We think they’re right.

At nearly 20,000 square region of grass-covered dunes, the cowboy way continues its western adventures every day.

The Platte River runs along the southern Sandhills, and three branches of the Loup River reach across this region where cattle outnumber people. The Niobrara River is a bucket list adventure for anyone who’s ever put a paddle in the water. Come build your own sand castle in Nebraska.

kayaking down the niobrara river Pictured left

Sandhills & Scenic Rivers • WestNebraska.com • 63

The gentle flow of the river, the wind rustling the trees, the quiet murmur of nature. It’s amazing what $40 can buy you.

Learn More:

64 • Destination western nebraska 2020

Visitor Center:

CarHenge

Mullen |

pg. 73

For a region known for its striking beauty, it’s appropriate that one of the world’s best golf courses stretches out across the land here in the geographic center of the Nebraska Sandhills. Sand Hills Golf Club is an 18-hole private golf course designed by pro golfer Ben Crenshaw. Golf Digest has ranked the Sand Hills Golf Club number one in its Modern List. To get there, travel 12 miles south of Mullen on Highway 97 to mile marker 55, then go west three miles. Visitors are welcome at the clubhouse, but to golf, players must be members or sponsored guests.

The region is also home to the world-class Dismal River Club. Designed by golf legend Jack Nicklaus, this is links golf: rugged, windblown, hard and fast. The course is located two miles south and 17 miles southwest of Mullen.

(308) 546-2900. Mullen also has a fine public nine-hole course called Mullen Golf Club.

(308) 546-2446.

Experienced canoers and kayakers can test their paddling skills on the Dismal River south of Mullen. It is a fast-flowing, spring-fed prairie river with plenty of twists and challenging submerged debris.

People looking for a family-friendly river trip can float the Middle Loup River just north of Mullen. The Middle Loup’s spring-fed and mostly calm waters meander through sloping Sandhills canyons.

Sandhills Motel offers canoe and kayak rental for both rivers, and stock tank rental for the Middle Loup. They take you upstream, then you float down to where your car is parked. This is also headquarters for the annual Polar Bear Tank Race in March. Besides offering lodging, the motel also provides tours to view the spring mating rituals of greater prairie chickens and sharp-tailed grouse. (308) 546-2206.

Nebraska National Forest, Bessey Ranger District, lies between the two rivers and campsites are adjacent to the rivers. Fishing is allowed where forest property touches the rivers. A stocked pond near the headquarters provides other aquatic fun. Hunting, hiking and wildlife viewing is allowed. (308) 533-2257.

The Dismal River meets the Middle Loup River east of Dunning. For more information on Mullen or the rivers, call (888) 278-6167.

Dismal River Outfitters is a big-game hunting ranch with more than 50,000 acres available for bison, elk, whitetail deer, mule-deer and turkey hunting. Sporting clay shooting and predator hunting are also available. The lodge offers cozy lodging and a menu heavy in Angus beef. Shuffleboard and billiards keep hunters occupied following the hunt. The ranch is 14 miles south of Mullen. (308) 546-0567.

Mullen 2020 Events

SHARP-TAILED GROUSE AND PRAIRIE CHICKEN VIEWING March and April. Observe the breeding displays of native birds. Other animals are typically spotted, too. (308) 546-2206.

POLAR BEAR TANK RACE March 1-2. Competitors, some much more serious than others, race on the scenic Middle Loup River seeking the fastest times, but this contest is mostly about bragging rights. (308) 546-2206.

Sandhills & Scenic Rivers • WestNebraska.com • 65

Fr Bl

Sidney-Deadwood Trail Ogalala National Grassland Toadstool Geologic Park

Mari Sando Her

Hudson-Meng Bison Bonebed

Whitney

High Plains Homestead Trailside Museum

Warbonnet Battlefield

Soldier Creek Wilderness

Fort Robinson State Park

Harrison

26 min.

Crawford

20

28 min.

Nebras Nationa Forest

Fort Laramie to Fort Robinson Trail 2

Agate Fossil Beds National Monument

Marsland

1 hr.

17 min

51 min.

Hemingford to Crawford

29

1 hr. 27 min.

Scottsbluff to Crawford

71

Mormon Trail Oregon Trail

Riverside Discovery

Henry Morrill

Mitchell

14 min. Center 7 min.

Mitchell to Scottsbluff Scottbluff to Gering

26

Midwest Theater

Lake Minatare Lighthouse

Scottsbluff

92

Scotts Bluff National Monument Five Rocks Amphitheater

Gering

27 min Gering to Bayard

Harrisburg Banner County Historical Museum

THUNDER ON THE PRAIRIE

Alliance |

June. Classic cars cruise to ‘50s and ‘60s music.

Poker run, barbeque and dance. Central Park. www.354cruisers.com. (308) 762-2761.

Alliance, founded in 1888 and located at the intersection of highways 2 and 385, is the largest city for 50 miles.

BOX BUTTE COUNTY FAIR August. Visit Hemingford for a concert, food vendors, tractor pull, demolition derby, live entertainment, horse show and frog races.

(308) 487-5223.

DOBBY’S FALL FESTIVAL September. Quick draw contest, live music and storytelling, Dutch oven cooking and church service. www.dobbysfrontiertown.com.

(308) 762-4321.

TREE & WREATH FESTIVAL Late Nov., early Dec. Holiday atmosphere with decorated trees and wreaths. (308) 762-2384. www.facebook.com/knightmuseum andsandhillscenter.

66 • Destination western nebraska 2020

pg. 76

Carhenge is perhaps the strangest attraction in all of Nebraska. The replica of England’s Stonehenge is built from 39 old cars, each painted gray. They jut from the ground just like the real Stonehenge’s stones. Free admission.

2151 Hwy 87.

Knight Museum and Sandhills Center showcases aspects of western life including Native American artifacts, railroad memorabilia, military history and ranch life. 908 Yellowstone Ave. (308) 762-2384.

Carnegie Arts Center hosts art shows at 204 W. Fourth St. (308) 762-4571.

Kenneth “Dobby” Lee lamented the decay of Frontier buildings, so he began saving them.

Dobby’s Frontier Town’s 26 buildings include a general store, a mortuary, saloon, one-room school and a cobbler’s shop. 320 E. 25th St. (308) 762-4321.

62A

Bayard

Bayard Rock M

Chimney Rock Bridg National Historic Site 88

1 hr.

3 min

71

2020 Events

July. Visit Alliance for sidewalk sales, carnival, parade and Sunday in the Park. (308) 762-1520.

Robidoux Trading Post & Pioneer Graves

Chimney Rock Pony Express Station

Niobrara River

HERITAGE DAYS

92

McGrew

Wildcat Hills Nature Center

Alliance

Minatare

Melbeta

Legacy of the Plains Museum

Lake Minatare State Recrea North Platte Wildlife Re

Prairie S

Oliver Reservoir Central Park Fountain operates Memorial Day Recreation Area Plains Historical Museum Railroad Bushnell weekend through Oct. 1.

After dark, it Dix features Museum Kimball 29 Potter Linc 30 min a lights-and-water18display.

Wiggly FieldDuckpin Dog 39 min Bowling Alley e Park isChespecially for man’s best friend.

1603 n eyen m Fro 71 Box Butte Ave. Tri-State Marker Nebraska’s Highest Point

28

Golfers find 18 holes of fun at Skyview Golf Course. (308) 762-1446.

Nebraska Veterans Cemetery opened in 2010 at the former Alliance Army Air Field on 20 acres once used as a troop training field.

(308) 763-2958.

Alliance’s brick-lined main street, Box Butte Avenue, is on the National Register of Historic Places. There are many shops, restaurants and other businesses here. Contact the Alliance Chamber of Commerce at (308) 762-1520.

VisitAlliance.com.

rom Rapid City & lack Hills Whiteclay

Merriman

White River 37 min.

oz High Plains ritage Center

Chadron Museum of the Fur Trade

ska al

Metcalf Wildlife Management Area

16 min.

1

Nio b r a r a

26 min.

Hemingford to chadron

Goldrush Byway

87 Hemingford

14

Sparks

12

15

13

Smith Falls State Park Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge

Snake River Falls

Merritt Reservoir State Recreation Area

10

Snake River

61

S16B

1 hr.

11

Valentine National Wildlife Refuge

r 250 53 min.

Box Butte Reservoir

Niobrara National Scenic River

12

97

Samuel R. McKelvie 17 National Forest 1 hr.

10 min.

Walgren Lake State 87 Recreation Area

ic R i v e S c en

Cherry County Historical Museum

Niobrara National River

27

385

Pine Ridge Mountain Bike Trail

Kilgore

Valentine

30 min.

Rushville

13 min.

Nenzel

Crookston

Clinton

Hay Springs

Chadron State Park

Gordon

20 min.

Cody

Eli 20

Arthur Bowring Ranch State Historical Park

Tri-State Old Time Cowboy Museum

87

9

1 hr.

15 min.

North Loup River

Smith Lake Wildlife Management Area

44 min.

Hemingford to chadron

2

Berea 83

Knight Museum Carnegie Arts Center Sallows Military Museum and Conservatory Dobby Frontier Town

2 7 5

3

Carhenge

4

“Old Jules” Sandoz Grave Site

Middle Loup River

Antioch

Alliance

6

Lakeside

26 min.

2

Ellsworth

Whitman Bingham

Nebraska Veterans Cemetery

Ashby

Hyannis

Mullen

Sandhills Byway

Seneca Thedford

29 min.

Tanking on the Middle Loup and Dismal River

385

ation Area efuge

2

15

45 min.

34 min.

L oup River

18 min.

Thomas County Historical Museum

Halsey

16

2

Nebraska National Forest Bessey Ranger District

Dismal River

27

43 min.

55 min.

Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Bridgeport State Recreation Area

d

Chimney Museum

8

Northport Pioneer Trails Museum

geport

61

Arthur

Wes te

Court House and Jail Rocks

rn T rails

27

Byw

ay

hP

latt

92

Dalton

eR

ive

53 min.

r

26

92

18 min.

54 min.

Lewellen

97

Attractions #SANDHILLS & #SCENIC RIVERS Fort Sidney Post Commander’s Home

Sidney

27

Lodgepole Depot Museum

Ash Hollow State Historical Park

30

L a ke

44 min.

50 min.

McCo

naug

hy

34

40

Sunol

30 min. Sidney to Chappell

30

19

Kingsley Dam/ Hydro Plant Little Church of Keystone Boot Hill Roscoe

Sutherland

80

39 min.

Ogallala to Chappell

61

47 min.

Ogallala to North Platte

25

30 min.

15 min.

Hemingford |

pg. 77

Hemingford is a patriotic town. The community located 18 miles northwest of Alliance displays more than 200 American flags along its famous Avenue of Flags during holidays such as July 4th weekend, Flag Day, Memorial Day and Veterans Day. Each flag once draped the casket of a veteran from the area, some of whom served in conflicts dating back to the Civil War.

32 min.

92

Paxton 1 31Box Butte Reservoir Lodgepole 10 MERRITT RESERVOIR California Hill Ogallala 32 Cabela’s Retail Store Historical Marker Hillside Chappell and Wildlife Exhibit Brule Sudman-Neumann Golf 33 Front Street 2 Course Carnegie Arts Center WILDLIFE REFUGE Heritage House Big Springs 11 VALENTINE NATIONAL Pony Express Ole’s Big Game Bergstrom Rock & Mansion on National Monument Steakhouse & Lounge Petrified Wood 1 Gem Collection the Hill Gallery 3 Knight Museum & Sandhills CENTER 12 NIOBRARA NATIONAL SCENIC RIVER 4 CARHENGE 13 SMITH FALLS STATE PARK 5 DOBBY'S FRONTIER town 14 FORT NIOBRARA NATIONAL Madrid WILDLIFEElsie REFUGE Brandon 6 NEBRASKA VETERANS CEMETERY 15 CANOEING, TUBING, GrantKAYAKING Grainton Wallace 7 SALLOWS MILITARY MUSEUM 16 NEBRASKA NATIONAL FOREST BESSEY RANGER DISTRICT 8 CRESCENT LAKE NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE 17 SAMUEL R. MCKELVIE NATIONAl FOREST 9 ARTHUR BOWRING SANDHILLS RANCH STATE HISTORICAL PARK

16 min

Lorenzo

29 min.

Oshkosh

Gurley

30

Ringold Stapleton

Historical Museum

385

coln B ywa y 80

Tryon

Lisco Nort

Schooner Museum

83

Broadwater

92

57 min.

Grant to Dickens

Hemingford is home to the Box Butte County Fair in August. During the holiday season, Hemingford displays its Christmas Diorama.

The drive-thru diorama, which dates to 1955, depicts scenes painted on wood panels. The impressive display stretches nearly three football fields in length. 1100 Niobrara Ave.

Buffalo Bill State Historical Park Hershey

38

North Platte Prehistoric Wonders 37 4 Golden Spike 36 Maxwell Settling the Tower & Visitorswest Fort Cody Sutherland Center Brady 39 Trading Post Reservoir Fort McPherson The Great OutDoorsNational Cemetery Lake Maloney Pioneer trails One-of-a-Kinds Dickens Unique Geology Welcome Centers/Rest Areas 30

The Rail Road Museum

80

40 min.

North Platte to Dickens

30 From

Om aha

Mormon Trail

Oregon Trail

23

83

surfing, sailing, picnic areas, hiking and primitive camping. Anglers hope for catches of smallmouth bass, channel catfish and yellow perch.

For more information on Hemingford, contact the Hemingford Chamber of Commerce.

(308) 487-3300.

Box Butte Reservoir, a 1600-acre lake, is part of the 2,212-acre Box Butte Reservoir State Recreation Area. The park 10 miles north of town offers excellent boating, swimming, wind-

Sandhills & Scenic Rivers • WestNebraska.com • 67

Camping by Niobrara River

One block west of the art gallery, Thomas County Historical Museum depicts Sandhills history by displaying artifacts used by settlers. The museum in the former Paxton home includes firearms and historic photos. (308) 645-2477.

Thedford Golf Course is a nine-hole public course built by local volunteers in 2009. The course follows the natural lay of the sandhills, and in addition to challenging buttes of this course are its scenic overlooks of the Middle Loup River. Cart rental and driving range available. One mile west of Highway 83. (308) 645-2233.

Halsey |

pg. 79

Highway 2, also known as the Sandhills Journey Scenic Byway, begins at Grand Island, passes the Nebraska National Forest at Halsey, crosses the lake country of the western Sandhills and exits the region near Alliance. This byway is rated in the top 10 scenic routes in the United States.

Hyannis |

pg. 77

Hyannis is home of the Windmill Days celebration each June. To find the event, look for the windmill toward the top of the hill in the center of Main Street. Grant County Museum in the courthouse, 104 E. Harrison St., displays regional history and rare oddities, such as props from actor John Wayne’s stunt man and a world-class barbed wire collection seen nowhere else. Open 1-4 p.m., Tuesday and Wednesday, or by appointment. (308) 458-2371. Golfers can shoot nine holes at Pelican Beach Golf Course just east of town. (308) 458-2579.

Frye Lake Wildlife Management Area offers fishing access northeast of Hyannis. Anglers hook largemouth bass, bluegill and catfish.

Ashby

Calinda’s Pot Shop & Art Gallery showcases owner Linda Lacy’s unique clay and canvas art of award-winning western designs in her newly remodeled gallery in a quaint '60s style recycled café. The artist invites any visitor, young or old, to try their hand at throwing a pot on the wheel themselves. Enjoy specialty coffees, “Soapwood Squeeze” sundaes and edible “cowpies” in the cedar pergola. Open Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Lacy hosts artists during Follow the Rails Art Trail in October. (308) 458-8051. www.calindaspotshop.com. Find her on Facebook.

68 • Destination western nebraska 2020

Seneca

Northern Plains Studio near Seneca has Native American and Western art for viewing and for sale by appointment. (308) 639-3227. Stable Productions Exotic Animal Ranch offers views of zebra, emu, elk and other critters in scenic settings along the Middle Loup River (308) 639-3218.

Thedford |

pg. 79

Thedford is a crossroads community along Highway 2. High 83 leads north to Valentine and south to North Platte.

In May of 1891, five miles north of Thedford, sisters Tillie and Retta Haumann became lost.

Four-year-old Retta was found alive after three days of searching. Eight-year-old Tillie perished after wandering an estimated 75 miles. A state historical marker near the Thomas County Courthouse in Thedford preserves the memory of the children.

Thedford Art Gallery, 509 Court St. sells framed photos, sculptures, pottery, jewelry and other creations made by regional artists. Open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday, May 1-Dec. 3, open the rest of the year 1-5 p.m. or by appointment. (308) 645-2396. Be sure not to miss the bronze sculptures of two girls by artist Linda Egle. Yellow Calf Studio shows and sells sculptures by appointment. (308) 645-2537.

Bessey Ranger District of the Nebraska National Forest is the largest hand-planted forest in the world. It’s a favorite for camping, ATV riding, horseback riding, hiking, picnicking, birdwatching, fishing and backpacking. Hunting for male deer, whitetail deer, turkey and grouse is allowed.

Seasonal bird-viewing blinds are available first come, first served. March and April.

Scott Lookout Tower offers a panoramic view of the forest and hills. Used by staff as a fire watch platform, climbing to the top is not for the faint of heart. (308) 533-2257.

Tryon

The Tryon area is sparse in human population but huge cattle herds live here. The local school mascot is the Longhorn, but Angus and Hereford cattle also graze area pastures. The long history of local ranching is chronicled in the McPherson County Historical Society Museum. It includes a historic bank, sod house and implements. Open by appointment. (308) 587-2376.

Arthur

West of Tryon about 40 miles on Highway 2, Arthur is the only town in Arthur County. This ranching town boasts the world’s smallest courthouse.

The 26-by-28-foot white frame building was built after Arthur County seceded from neighboring McPherson County in 1913.

The former Pilgrim Holiness Church is one of the few places of worship ever made from baled straw. How is that for a true blessing of Nebraska ingenuity?

THERE’S SOMETHING TO BE SAID FOR A PLACE THAT HASN’T LOST ITS ROOTS.

DISCOVERNWNEBRASKA.COM Pine Ridge • WestNebraska.com • 69

Valentine |

pg. 80

Nebraska’s “Heart City” is near the Niobrara River. Outfitters provide everything needed for river fun.

Five miles east of Valentine on Highway 12, bison, elk and deer roam the Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge’s prairie dog town is popular for wildlife viewing and photography, and Fort Falls is a waterfall found by hiking a short but narrow trail.

EXPLORE THE NEBRASKA NATIONAL FOREST, BESSEY RANGER DISTRICT

SEE THE ANNUAL SPRING SANDHILL CRANE MIGRATION

Explore the Sandhills Journey Scenic Byway, Nebraska Highway 2, from Grand Island to Alliance.

It makes a memorable day trip or week-long vacation!

• The Largest Grass-Covered Sand Dune Formations in the Western Hemisphere • Nebraska National Forest, Bessey Ranger District

“TANK” DOWN THE MIDDLE LOUP RIVER Nebraska National Forest photo courtesy of the USDA Forest Service.

Sandhill Crane photo courtesy of E. Jason Wambsgans, Chicago Tribune.

Middle Loup River photo courtesy of Will Saunders and Vist Nebraska.

• Real Cowboys, Working Ranches and over 500,000 Head of Cattle • World-Class Birding • Near the Valentine and Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuges • Superb Dark Skies Make for Amazing Stargazing Opportunities

Visitor’s Center

Alliance 2

Grand Island

N E B R A S K A

J& R River Ranch Guest House A newly remodeled 1900’s historic home located at a secluded operating cattle ranch along the Dismal River.

Contact Megan at 308-587-2313 | Find us on Facebook.com jandrriverranch@gmail.com for reservations or questions.

70 • Destination western nebraska 2020

sandhillsjourney.com • 308-546-0636

Appreciate the arts in Alliance

Tour the sculpture garden, exhibits and join us for artist receptions and classes.

Open: Tues-Sat, 10 am - 4pm 204 W 4th St. Alliance, NE • 308.762.4571 CarnegieArtsCenter.com • art@carnegieartscenter.com

Attractions include Smith Falls State Park, Merritt Reservoir, McKelvie National Forest and Valentine NWR. The Prairie Club has three destination golf courses, a pro shop, spacious lodge, bunkhouse, cabins, wine bar and an upscale restaurant. (888) 402-1101.

Smith Falls, Nebraska's tallest waterfall at 63 feet high, located on the Smith Falls State Park.

Stop by on your float down the Niobrara or drive just 18 miles outside of Valentine. A State Park sticker is required. Enjoy picnicking, fishing, primitive camping, and hiking. Smith Falls waterfall is just a short walk over the Niobrara river and the relocated Verdigre bridge. Take an extra hike along the Jim MacAllister trail and revel in the beauty of this area's unique and diverse eco system. There is none like it anywhere else in the world.

Frederick Peak Golf Club is a public 10-hole course named for a pointed, chalky peak. The course includes a driving range, a pair of putting greens and a clubhouse. (402) 322-2754.

Built in 1897, Centennial Hall is the oldest standing high school building in Nebraska. It is a heritage museum of beautifully displayed collections. It has often been the source for paranormal investigation. Open Memorial Day through Labor Day or by appointment.

(402) 376-1081.

Cherry County Historical Museum is a virtual treasure trove of the history of Cherry County, beginning with how it was settled and by whom.

The museum has a variety of displays devoted to early-day cattlemen, Fort Niobrara, Native Americans, U.S. wars and the daily life of the pioneer era. An archival library includes historic newspapers and genealogical records. Located at the corner of Main Street and Highway 20, the museum is open Memorial Day to Labor Day, Thursday through Saturday from 1 to 5 p.m. or by appointment. (402) 376-2015.

Located just northeast of Valentine is Valentine State Fish Hatchery, one of five hatcheries in the state. Spread over 700 acres, the hatchery handles millions of fish eggs annually. In most years, lakes in Cherry County alone are stocked with some 675,000 fish. Just to the north, Government Canyon – a 640-acre area – offers prime wildlife habitat and activities including hiking, biking, bird watching and hunting in specified areas.

Among Nebraska’s most spectacular waterfalls, Snake River Falls rushes over a 54-footwide ledge. When the Snake River is full, it is the largest waterfall in the state by volume. Water tumbles and turns like a mountain stream as it flows 12 miles to the Niobrara River. A hiking trail leads you to two viewing areas of the falls.

Located south of Valentine on Hwy 97.

The 72,000 acre Valentine National Wildlife Refuge lies in the heart of the Nebraska Sandhills, a vast area of grass blanketed sand dunes, which flow across north-central Nebraska.

Lakes and marshes in the valleys and prairie grasses in the hills and meadows provide habitat for many kinds of wildlife like the prairie chicken.

For Valentine information, call (800) 658-4024.

Merriman |

pg. 81

The grand history of Sandhills ranching lives on at Arthur Bowering Ranch State Historical Park. This Hereford demonstration ranch became a state park in 1985. Sod House Sunday is a popular event held here each June.

(308) 282-0730.

Cottonwood Lake State Recreation Area offers fishing, boating and camping southeast of Merriman. Largemouth bass, channel catfish and bluegill are hooked from this scenic Sandhills lake.

Smith Falls

Niobrara Valley Vineyards near Nenzel allows visitors to taste the Sandhills with wines made from grapevines growing on the Nollette family ranch. (402) 823-4131. Cody-Kilgore High School students helped build the straw bale Circle C Market. Now they run it. (402) 823-4099.

Samuel McKelvie National Forest, Located south of Nenzel in Cherry County, this 116,000acre national forest is a fantastic representation of the unique Nebraska Sandhills prairie ecosystem. Popular uses of the forest include hunting, fishing, horseback riding, camping and bird watching. There is one small campground located on the southwestern edge of the forest.

Steer Creek Campground has 23 campsites, 8 horse corrals, potable water, and the 1-mile Blue Jay hiking trail.

George Paul Vinegars offers traditionally crafted fruit and wine vinegars made by the Johnson Family. Straw bale constructed vinegary. Traditional old-world methods transform wine to vinegar. Visit by appointment.

The Niobrara River Canoe Launch day use site on the Niobrara River for launching small water craft. Fishing is available in the nearby Merritt Reservoir. The Lord Lakes wetland complex has been recognized for its outstanding fishing.

Nenzel & Cody |

pg. 80

T homas County 2020 Events

WILDLIFE VIEWING – HALSEY The Nebraska National Forest is a year-round destination for birders. Grouse viewing blinds available in March and April. (308) 533-2257.

THOMAS COUNTY FAIR – THEDFORD July. Thedford’s biggest bash includes a parade, live entertainment, food, vendors, children’s games and a fishing tournament.

(308) 645-2646.

Sandhills & Scenic Rivers • WestNebraska.com • 71

HALSEY | THEDFORD | SENECA In the heart of the Nebraska Sandhills, we have more chaps than business suits, more horses than SUVs, & a welcome sign as big as the sky.

ENJOY YOUR OVERNIGHTS AT THE

ROADSIDE INN

While Exploring the Sandhills & The Nebraska National Forest, Bessey Ranger District Sleeps up to 9, with all bedding, fully-equipped kitchen, Wi-Fi, Dish TV, & Gas Grill Hunt, Fish, ATV, Birding, Hiking & Water Recreation on the Middle Loup River Call for Reservations - 402-450-2268 middleloupriverranch.com 5 miles west of Halsey – 10 miles east of Thedford Along NE Hwy 2 – Sandhills Journey Scenic Byway

Experience Hospitality in the Sandhills

the perfect getaway HALSEY FRONTIER INN

Clean rooms, wireless internet and a continental breakfast. We also have RV hook-ups and a full restaurant and lounge next door.

Where you arrive as a guest and leave as family!

1-308-645-2284 | RoadsideInn.com

Leave your stress behind, immerse yourself in down-home hospitality and stay in one of our rooms!

39357 Hwy 2 • Thedford, NE

503 Highway 2 • Halsey • 308.533.2240 • HalseyFrontierinn.us

Perfect Pit Stop

Sandhills Corral Restaurant

ON YOUR SANDHILL VACATION Sandhill Oil Company/Dino Mart is ready to fuel you up with gas, food, and outdoor supplies. Three locations make us a reliable place to stretch your legs on your travels.

Also offering tire services!

sandhilloil.com THEDFORD 308-645-2233

HYANNIS

308-458-2237

VALENTINE 402-376-1302

SANDHILL RIVER TRIPS & EWOLDT'S GROCERY

Tank, tube, or kayak down the Middle Loup River. Stock your cooler with tasty provisions and steaks from Ewoldt’s Grocery.

308-645-2235 608 Court St., Thedford, NE sandhillrivertrips.com

East of Thedford on Highway 2 *Steaks *Salad Bar *Beer *Spirits (308) 645-2323 @SandhillsCorral Open Monday through Saturday

11:00 am - 2:00 pm and 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm

C rossroadsofthe s andhills.com 72 Destination western nebraska 2020 •

kayaking down the niobrara river

Mullen

HOTELS & MOTELS

Glidden Sandhills Motel, W. Hwy 2, Mullen www.sandhillsmotel.com

UNIQUE LODGING

PHONE

ROOMS

308-546-2206 888-278-6167

19

PHONE

AMENITIES Wheelchair accessible, restaurant on premises, close to public pool, pets allowed

AMENITIES

Carter Morris House, 102 N.W. 3rd St., Mullen

308-546-2288

Fully-furnished 2-bedroom guest house, sleeps 9, laundry facilities

Double R Guest Ranch LLC 86091 Double R Dr., Mullen, www.rrguestranch.com

308-546-2314 866-217-2042

Hunt, fish, hike and relax in furnished cabins w/complete kitchenettes; enjoy abundant wildlife; three spring-fed lakes; endless photography; explore this historical sod house, country school on site and hike the trails

CAMPGROUNDS Glidden Sandhills Campground 5078 S.W. 1st, Mullen (W. Hwy 2) www.sandhillsmotel.com

GOLF COURSES

PHONE

OPEN

308-546-2206

Year Round

PHONE

AMENITIES RV Amenities: electricity, water, sewer, room for 10 trailers. Rest Facilities: shower and flush toilets

HOLES & TYPE

Call for hours & tee times.

RATE RANGE 1-75

RATE RANGE 51-75+

95+

FEES 25 nightly, 115 weekly

RATE RANGE

Dismal River Club, 83040 Dismal River Trail, Mullen

308-546-2900

18, semi-private

30+

Mullen Golf Course, 102 N. Veteran, W. Hwy 2, Mullen

308-546-2445

9, public

15-30

Sandhills & Scenic Rivers • WestNebraska.com • 73

? e r e h o d o t g n i e is noth

Ther

Big Blue Bay Pool Box Butte Reservoir Carhenge Central Park &Fountain Dobby's Frontier Town Greenhouse in the Snow Knight Museum & Sandhills Center Laing Lake & Park Rolling Prairie Disk Golf Course Sallows Military Museum Skyview Golf Course Steam Engine 719 Veterans Cemetery Wiggly Dog Park

Yellow Calf Studio Exceptional beauty.

Western Inspiration.

Linda Egle 308.650.0855 lindaegle.com 83881 Yellow Calf Lane P.O. Box D • Thedford, NE 69166 WELCOME TO THE WINGSTREET

To Chart Your Course, find more local events all year round at www.visitalliance.com

DINE-IN • DELIVERY • CARRY-OUT

605 E. HWY 20, VALENTINE, NEBRASKA 402-376-3303 • PIZZAHUT.COM HUNT, FISH, HIKE, RELAX.

DOUBLE R GUEST RANCH, LLC

• Tanking, Canoe & Kayak Rentals • River Adventures in the Sandhills • Wild River Adventures • Bird Watching 308-546-2206

•

SANDHILLSMOTEL.COM

74 • Destination western nebraska 2020

•

LOCATED IN MULLEN, NE

Mullen, NE

Experience the Sandhills.

Deluxe Cabins are comfortably furnished and have fully-equipped kitchenettes ready to cook; just bring your food!

Hunting - Game Birds & Deer • Birding Stargazing • Hiking • Ranch Tours • Sod House Tour Fishing • Relaxing • Horse Boarding

19 miles north of Mullen on Hwy 97 866-217-2042 • RRguestranch.com Pat Bridges, Owner • info@RRguestranch.com Visitor’s Center

Alliance

2

Grand Island

N E B R A S K A

sandhillsjourney.com • 308-546-0636

Your Sandhills adventure starts here.

• Located in the Sandhills of Western Nebraska • Annual Sandhills Sharptail Shootout (competitive hunt) • Clean rivers with kayaking, canoeing and tanking • Scenic Byway and adventuresome back-country roads

• World-class golf courses • Friendly locals and affordable amenities • Frisbee Golf Course • Tennis Courts

Hooker County

Nebraska

Hooker County Visitors Committee • 308-546-0636 • PO Box 28 • Mullen, NE 69152 • www.Hooker-County.com

Sandhills & Scenic Rivers • WestNebraska.com • 75

Niobrara River

Alliance

HOTELS & MOTELS

PHONE

ROOMS

1st Interstate Inn 1207 W. 3rd St., W. on Hwy 2 & Hwy 385, Alliance

308-762-4040

42

Pets allowed

Alliance Hotel & Suites 117 Cody Ave., 3rd & Cody Sts., Alliance www.alliance-hotel.com

308-762-8000

60

Wheelchair accessible, indoor pool, free continental breakfast

Econo Lodge, 1419 W. 3rd St., Alliance

308-762-8300

39

Free continental breakfast, pets allowed

1-75

Holiday Inn Express, 1630 Holsten Dr., Alliance www.hiexpress.com/alliancene

308-761-0970

71

Wheelchair accessible, free continental breakfast, pets allowed, indoor pool

1-75

Quality Inn, 1420 W. 3rd St., Alliance

308-762-7600

60

Wheelchair accessible, indoor pool, free continental breakfast

Rainbow Motel, 614 W. 3rd St., Alliance www.rainbowmotelalliance.com

308-762-4980

13

Restaurant on premises, free continental breakfast, pets allowed

1-50

Sunset Motel & RV Park, 1210 E. Hwy 2, Alliance www.clicksunset.com

308-762-8660

20

Indoor pool, pets allowed

49-75

UNIQUE LODGING

PHONE

AMENITIES

1-50

AMENITIES

Go West Guesthouse, 1023 Toluca Ave., Alliance gowestguesthouse@gmail.com

308-760-5072

Room for 1-13 guests, 6 bedrooms, 8 beds, 305 baths, 1 jacuzzi tub, 2-car garage. Full kitchen appliances, cooking and dishware. Washer/dryer, enclosed backyard.

Grandma Lala's Bed and Breakfast 1232 Box Butte Ave., Alliance

308-762-2925

Four rooms with private bath, morning brunch included

CAMPGROUNDS

RATE RANGE

51-75+

RATE RANGE 150+

75-110

PHONE

OPEN

J&C Lawn Services & RV Park 2491 S. US Hwy 385, Alliance www.j-c-lawn-services.business.site

308-762-3860

Year Round

RV Amenities: electricity, water, sewer, room for 13 trailers

Call for rates

Jeske's Over the Hill Campground 2131 Cty Rd. 59, Alliance

308-760-6932

•

Electricity, water, sewer, Wi-Fi access, country atmosphere

•

Sunset Motel & RV Park, 1210 E. Hwy 2, Alliance www.clicksunset.com

308-762-8660 800-767-8660

Year Round

GOLF COURSES Sky View Golf Course 2613 Cty Rd. 57, Alliance

76 • Destination western nebraska 2020

PHONE 308-762-1446

AMENITIES

51-75+

RV Amenities: electricity, water, sewer, room for 24 trailers. Rest Facilities: showers, flush toilets, indoor pool

HOLES & TYPE

Call for hours & tee times.

18, public

FEES

18-30

RATE RANGE 15-30

Hemingford

&

Hyannis

HOTELS & MOTELS

PHONE

ROOMS

Double JT & Hyannis Hotel, 1025 Main Ave., Hyannis

308-458-2332

11

Restaurant on premises

51-75

Ranchland Motel, 305 E. Hwy 2, Hyannis

308-458-2264

6

•

51-75

UNIQUE LODGING

PHONE

AMENITIES

AMENITIES

Whisperin’ Angel Inn,101 S. Manderson Ave., Hyannis

308-458-2300

Historic bed and breakfast, rooms with shared bath, full breakfast

Pelican Beach Cabin 43863 E. Hwy 2, 1 1/2 mi., E. on Hwy 2, Hyannis

308-458-2444

Rooms with shared bath. Sleeps 6, full kitchen, laundry facilities, bedroom loft, overlooks lake

CAMPGROUNDS

RATE RANGE

RATE RANGE • 75+

PHONE

OPEN

AMENITIES

FEES

Box Butte Reservoir SRA 9 1/2 N. Hemingford, on the Niobrara River www.outdoornebraska.gov

308-665-2900

Year Round

RV Amenities: electricity, water, room for 64 trailers. Rest Facilities: pit toilets.

Camping: 60 tents

6-12 & NE Park Permit

Ranchland Motel Campground 305 Hwy 2, Hyannis

308-458-2264

•

Simpson’s Trailer Court 316 Morton St., Hyannis

308-458-2354

Year Round

GOLF COURSES

PHONE

RV Amenities: electricity, water, sewer RV Amenities: electricity, water, sewer, room for 6 trailers. Camping: unlimited tents

HOLES & TYPE

Call for hours & tee times.

• Call for rates

RATE RANGE

Hemingford Golf Course Fremont St., Hemingford

308-487-3639

7, public

Under 15

Pelican Beach Golf Club 2 1/4 mi. E. on Hwy 2, Hyannis

308-458-2579

9, public

Under 15

Sandhills & Scenic Rivers • WestNebraska.com • 77

Shop year-round at

Hemingford’s specialty meat market

Indulge in fresh cuts of beef, pork, and specialty meats for yourself or gatherings.

Custom gift boxes are available with meats, cheeses, local honey, seasonings, and gift certificates.

302-487-5232

815 Box Butte Ave. Hemingford, NE 69348

facebook.com/tabletopmeats

S

p

e ic

it

up in Valen

Grab Some Grub or a Jug ti

n

at Chuckwagon n’ Jug

e

Featuring:

• Wednesday Night Specials • Sunday Lunch Specials • Open 7 Days a Week • Alcohol Catering

201 S. Lincoln Ave. Mullen, NE 308.546.2284

Stop into Milo and Max’s while in Valentine for the best homemade, mouth-watering Mexican food. Whether you’re in the mood for tacos, burritos, nachos, or an American favorite, you’ll be sure to leave fully satisfied.

Discover a world-class barbed-wire collection, trace genealogy and join Chuck Hayward fans in Grant County.

Open Tues. 10 am-2 pm or by appt.

105 E Harrison, Hyannis 1-308-458-2371

DINE-IN OR CARRY-OUT

Mon-Sat, 11 am - 8 pm // Summer, 11 am - 9 pm

402.376.1664 733 W Hwy 20, Valentine, Nebraska

78 • Destination western nebraska 2020

Grant Count Historical Society and Museum

Halsey

&

T hedford

HOTELS & MOTELS

PHONE

ROOMS

Halsey Frontier Inn, 503 Hwy 2, Halsey www.halseyfrontierinn.com

308-533-2240

11

Free continental breakfast, pets allowed

1-75

Arrowhead Lodge & Café 39293 Hwy 2, Thedford, Jct Hwy 2 & US Hwy 83 arrowheadlodge.webs.com

308-645-2246

19

Restaurant on premises, pets allowed

1-50

Roadside Inn, 39357 Hwy 2, Thedford www.roadsideinn.net

308-645-2284

42

Wheelchair accessible, restaurant on premises, free continental breakfast, pets allowed

51-75

UNIQUE LODGING Middle Loup River Ranch Guest House 4 mi. W. of Halsey, Hwy 2; Mile Marker 221 www.middleloupriverranch.com

CAMPGROUNDS

PHONE 402-450-2268

AMENITIES

AMENITIES Two bedroom guest house, rooms with shared bath, sleeps 9, laundry, AC, sat TV, Wi-Fi, gas grill. Next to Nebraska National Forest

RATE RANGE 75+

PHONE

OPEN

Belle's Bunkhouse and Campground 202 Main St., Halsey, Adjacent to Hwy 2, cabin adjacent to campground

308-539-1462

Year Round

RV Amenities: electricity, water, sewer, room for 9 trailers. Camping: available. Cabin Rental: 1 (2 night minimum, 75+)

•

Bessey Recreation Complex Nebraska National Forest, 2 mi. W., Halsey www.fs.fed.us/rz/nebraska

308-533-2257

Year Round

RV Amenities: electricity, water, room for 21 trailers. Rest Facilities: shower, pit and flush toilets. Camping: 13 tents

8-11 3 vehicle

Roadside Inn Campground 39357 E. Hwy 2, 1 mi. E. on Hwy 2, Thedford www.Roadsideinn.net

308-645-2284 800-373-1648

Year Round

RV Amenities: electricity, water, sewer, room for 10 trailers. Rest Facilities: flush toilets .Camping: 3 tents

GOLF COURSES

PHONE

Thedford Golf Course 1 mi. S. on US Hwy 83, Thedford

Arnold

&

AMENITIES

RATE RANGE

HOLES & TYPE

308-645-2634

Stapleton

HOTELS & MOTELS

Call for hours & tee times.

9, public

FEES

18.5

RATE RANGE Under 15

PHONE

ROOMS

AMENITIES

RATE RANGE

The Bunkhouse, South end of Main Street, Arnold

308-764-2476

4

Pets allowed

1-50

CAMPGROUNDS

PHONE

OPEN

AMENITIES

FEES

308-848-2228

Year Round

RV Amenities: electricity, room for 20 trailers.

Rest Facilities: pit toilets. Camping: 100+ tents

•

Arnold SRA, 1 mi. S. of Jct Hwys 40 & 92, Arnold www.arnoldne.org

GOLF COURSES Augusta Winds Public Golf Course, 1 mi. S. on US Hwy 83, Stapleton

PHONE 308-636-2428

HOLES & TYPE

Call for hours & tee times.

9, public

RATE RANGE Under 15

Sandhills & Scenic Rivers • WestNebraska.com • 79

Valentine, Merriman HOTELS & MOTELS

Cody

&

PHONE

ROOMS

Comfort Inn, 101 Main St., Valentine www.civalentine.com

402-376-3300

50

Wheelchair accessible, indoor pool, free continental breakfast

75+

Econo Lodge & Suites 340 E. US Hwy 20, Valentine www.duneslodge.com

402-376-3131

72

Wheelchair accessible, free continental breakfast, pets allowed

75+

Motel Raine, 618 US Hwy 20, Valentine www.sleepintheraine.com

402-376-2030 800-999-3066

31

Conference room, Wi-Fi, fitness room

75

Super 8 Motel, 223 E. US Hwy 20, Valentine www.super8.com

402-376-1250

60

Wheelchair accessible, indoor pool, free continental breakfast

51-75+

Trade Winds Motel, 1009 E. US Hwy 20, Valentine www.tradewindslodge.com

402-376-1600

32

Free continental breakfast, pets allowed

51-75+

The Niobrara Lodge, 803 E. US Hwy 20, www.niobrarariverlodge.com

402-376-3000 877-376-3003

61

Wheelchair accessible, indoor pool, pets allowed

75+

UNIQUE LODGING

PHONE

AMENITIES

AMENITIES

RATE RANGE

RATE RANGE

Buer Ranch Lodge, 90296 Berry Bridge Rd., Valentine www.buerranch.com

402-322-0314

Air conditioning, full kitchen, charcoal grill, Dish TV

Cody’s Country Cabin, US Hwy 20, Cody

402-823-4182

3-bedroom house, rent to one party at a time

Cottonwood House

402-376-1109

Kitchen, TV, essentials, heating/air conditioning

75+

Heartland Elk Guest Ranch Valentine, 17 mi. E. on Hwy 12, 2 1/2 mi. S. www.heartlandelk.com

402-376-1124

Outdoor activities available

75+

Kate Songer Air BNB

402-322-0275

4 - wi-fi, fenced yard, garage, laundry

Lord Ranch Resort, 17 mi. S. on Hwy 83 to Mile Marker 9, 1 mi. E. on 16 B Spur, Valentine

402-376-5984 800-270-0181

Rooms with private bath. Cabins surrounded by the Sandhills

75+

Merritt Trading Post, 26 mi. S.W. on Hwy 97, Valentine, www.merritttradingpost.com

402-376-3437

Wheelchair accessible, restaurant on premises, pets allowed

75+

Niobrara River Ranch 15 mi. E. on Hwy 12, S. 3/4 mi., Valentine

402-890-1245 866-282-8677

Rustic, handcrafted log cabins

75+

Rock Creek Lodge

402-376-3082

4 - cable tv, hot tub, wi-fi

75+

Schlagel Creek Ranch 5 mi. S. on Hwy 20, 1 1/2 mi. W., Valentine www.schlagelcreekranch.com

402-376-2679

Outdoor activities. Fall and spring hunting packages

GOLF COURSES

PHONE

The Prairie Club, 109 S. Main St., Valentine

888-402-1101

46 holes, 3 courses, semi-private

Frederick Peak Golf Club, 1000 Dowden St., Valentine www.outdoornebraska.gov

402-322-2754

10 holes

80 • Destination western nebraska 2020

HOLES & TYPE

Call for hours & tee times.

75+

•

•

•

RATE RANGE Over 30 Under 30

CAMPGROUNDS

PHONE

OPEN

Berry Bridge Resort, 13 mi. E. on Hwy 12, 3 mi. S., Valentine, www.niobraracamping.com

402-376-3474

May 15Oct. 15

Cody City Park, One block N. of Hwy 20, off Western Nebraska Ave, Cody

402-823-4118

Cottonwood Lake SRA, 1/2 mi.E., 1/2 mi. S., Merriman www.outdoornebraska.gov

AMENITIES

FEES

RV Amenities: electricity, room for 8 trailers Rest Facilities: shower, flush and pit toilets Camping: 18 tents. Cabins: 4

Call for rates

Year Round

RV Amenities: electricity, water, sewer

Call for rates

308-684-3428

Year Round

RV Amenities: water. Rest Facilities: pit toilets Camping: unlimited tents

4, NE Park Permit

Fishberry Campground, HC 14 Box 1, 4 1/2 mi. N. on US Hwy 83, Valentine www.fishberrycampground.com

402-376-1662 866-376-1662

May 1Nov. 1

RV Amenities: electricity, water, sewer, room for 22 trailers. Rest Facilities: shower, flush toilets. Camping: 10 tents

28

Fritz’s Island Campground, 7 1/2 mi. S.E. of Sparks www.campniobrara.com

402-376-3791 866-376-1662

May-Oct.

RV Amenities: electricity, water, room for 20 trailers. Rest Facilities: shower, flush and pit toilets. Camping: 60 tents

6 Youth, Under 10 Free

Graham’s Camp, 5 mi. S. of Sparks www.grahamoutfitters.com

402-376-3708 800-322-3708

Apr. 1Nov. 1

Rest Facilities: shower, pit toilets.

Camping: 50 tents

7 - 14 NE Park Permit

Merritt Reservoir, 28 mi. S.W. on Hwy 97, Valentine www.outdoornebraska.gov

402-376-3320

Year Round

RV Amenities: electricity, water, sewer, room for 215 trailers. Rest Facilities: shower, flush and pit toilets. Cabins: available

14 - 22

Merritt Trading Post, 26 mi. S.W. on Hwy 97, Valentine www.merrittradingpost.com

402-376-3437

Year Round

RV Amenities: electricity, water, sewer, room for 7 trailers. Rest Facilities: shower, flush toilets. Cabins: 15

14 - 22

Rock Barn Outfitters, Sparks, E. on Hwy 12 to Mile Marker 28, 5 mi. S., 1/2 mi. E. www.rockbarnoutfitters.com

402-376-1764 800-335-6252

May 15 Sept. 15

RV Amenities: water, room for 6 trailers.

Rest Facilities: shower and pit toilets.

Camping: 40 tents

5

Rocky Ford Camp & Outfitters LLC, 13 mi. S. of Sparks, www.rockyfordoutfitters.com

402-497-3479

Apr. 15Sept. 15

RV Amenities: electricity, water, room for 8 trailers. Rest Facilities: shower, flush and pit toilets. Camping: 35 tents. Cabins: 5

3

Shady Spot RV Camp, 402 N. Main St., 1 block N. of Jct US Hwt 20 & Hwy 61, Merriman

308-684-3330

June 1Sept. 1

Smith Falls State Park, 3 mi. W, 4 mi. S. of Sparks www.outdoornebraska.gov

402-376-1306

Year Round

RV Amenities: water, room for 5 trailers.

Rest Facilities: shower, flush and pit toilets.

Camping: 25 tents

4, NE Park Permit

Sparks Store & RV Camp, 101 Main St., Sparks, 18 mi. E of Valentine on NE Hwy 12, www.drylandaquatics.com

402-376-1119 800-337-3119

Apr.-Nov.

RV Amenities: electricity, water, room for 6 trailers. Rest Facilities: shower, flush and pit toilets. Camping: 30 tents. Cabins: 2

Call for rates

Steer Creek Campground Samuel R. McKelvie Nat’l Forest, 20 mi. S. of Nenzel

308-533-2257

Year Round

RV Amenities: Room for 23 trailers.

Rest Facilities: pit toilets. Camping: 23 tents

5

Sunny Brook Camp LLC, 11 mi. S.E. of Sparks www.sunnybrookscamp.com

402-376-1887 877-376-1887

Year Round

RV Amenities: electricity, water, room for 3 trailers. Rest Facilities: shower, flush and pit toilets. Camping: 20 tents. Cabins: 2

Call for rates

Valentine City Park, N. Main St., along Minnechaduza Creek, Valentine

402-376-2323

May-Sept.

Rest Facilities: shower, flush toilets.

Camping: 5 tents

Village Park, 3rd & Main Streets, Wood Lake

402-967-3054

May-Sept.

RV Amenities: electricity, water, sewer, room for 2 trailers. Rest Facilities: flush toilets

Donation

Wacky West Travel Park, 702 E. C St., Valentine

402-376-1771 866-376-1771

Year Round

RV Amenities: electricity, water, sewer, room for 31 trailers. Rest Facilities: shower, flush toilets. Camping: 10 tents

Call for rates

Penbrook Campground 90281 Berry Bridge Rd., Valentine

402-376-3474

Apr.-Nov.

RV Amenities: 5 electric spots, water, pit toilets. Camping: 1 mi. of riverfront camping

Call for rates

RV Amenities: electricity, water, sewer, room for 6 trailers

10

5

Sandhills & Scenic Rivers • WestNebraska.com • 81

PLAN YOUR ESCAPE TO LAKE MCCONAUGHY: Nebraska’s Year-Round Outdoor Recreation Paradise

Photo by AlwaysKayak

Photo by Teri Elmshaeuser

• LARGEST LAKE IN THE 3-STATE AREA • BEAUTIFUL WHITE SAND BEACHES • CAMPING, CABINS & HOTELS AVAILABLE • INCREDIBLE FOUR-SEASON BIRD WATCHING • EXPLORE THE OLD WEST HERITAGE OF OGALLALA AND KEITH COUNTY AT THE PETRIFIED WOOD & ART GALLERY, BOOT HILL AND MANSION ON THE HILL MUSEUM

DOWNLOAD THE LAKE M C CONAUGHY APP FOR LODGING, COUPONS AND MORE!

@LAKE MAC - VISITORS GUIDE

PLAN YOUR TRIP AT ILOVELAKEMAC.COM • 800-658-4390 • JUST OFF I-80, EXIT 126 PRESENTED BY THE KEITH COUNTY VISITORS COMMITTEE

FAMOUS ROCKS & HISTORIC TRAILS Famous rocks were landmarks for many historic trails—such as the Oregon Trail, Mormon Trail, California Trail, Sydney to Black Hills Trail, Great Western Cattle Trails, and the Pony Express.

Chimney Rock is the most frequently mentioned landmark in diaries of pioneers on the Oregon Trail. Today you can visit the rock like the pioneers did by visiting The Ethel and Christopher J. Abbott Visitor Center—located just south of Bayard.

Courthouse Rock and Jail Rock are equally impressive, rising 340 feet above the valley floor five miles south of Bridgeport. Visit during the Camp Clarke Raiders Rendezvous for black powder shoots, reenactments, games, food, and more!

Morrill County Visitors Committee • 308-262-1825 • MorrillCounty.net Angora • Bayard • Bridgeport • Broadwater PHOTOS: Top Row—Chimney Rock by L. T. James; Courthouse Rock and Jail Rock by Western Nebraska Tourism Coalition. Second Row—Pioneer Trails Museum, Bridgeport; The Farm House B&B, Broadwater; Bridgeport State Recreation Area; The Pumpkin Patch at BE Farm, Bayard. Third Row—Bayard Depot Museum, The Ethel and Christopher J. Abbott Visitor Center, Bayard; Camp Clarke Raiders Muzzle Loading Club, Bridgeport; Broadwater Museum.