Destination_Western_Nebraska_2023

Legacy of the plains Museum

The High Plains and the North Platte Valley have a special legacy and a unique place in American history. The private, nonprofit Legacy of the Plains Museum celebrates the people who made that history. Located on the Oregon Trail, Legacy of the Plains Museum features an impressive collection of pioneer and early community artifacts, antique tractors, and farm implements; an 80-acre working farm; historic farmstead structures; and striking views of Scotts Bluff National Monument.

The Platte River Road

The North Platte River basin has been a super highway of travel for thousands of years. Visitors can step back in time and follow the footsteps of our earliest inhabitants of the area, the Paleo-Indian, fur trappers and traders, travelers along our trails, and many others. You can also view an exciting Native American exhibit with arrowheads and tools from all over the country, a Teepee with the Lakota origin story playing in it, and an amazing, reproduced artifact collection.

A Legacy Tied to the Land

Our legacy is tied to the land. Hunting, gathering, ranching, and

farming have shaped the people that have called this area home.

The Legacy of the Plains has one of the largest agricultural equipment collections in the area, which feature hand, horse, and tractor drawn equipment. Our exhibits showcase livestock/ranching history of the area, both irrigated and dryland farming practices, and features the wide variety of crops grown in the region including: wheat, alfalfa, dry beans, potatoes, corn, sugar beets, and others. On the third full weekend in September, the Museum hosts its Annual Harvest Festival showcases this heritage. A crop is highlighted and live demonstrations are available using a wide variety of equipment.

Those that stayed

Early American Settlement is a major focus of the museum and can be seen throughout our campus. Our exhibit hall consists of exhibits that focus on industries; home life, art, and our interactive features help bring the past alive for our visitors.

Our Wiedeman Farmstead provides our visitors with a view into the lives of people in the 1930’s and 1950’s.

The barn, workshop, granary, windmill and sound of farm animals

add to the experience. The Gentry Cabin highlights life in the1890’s, including an outhouse. Both of these houses were moved to the museum, and during our festivals, visitors can talk to descendants of the people that built them.

The People

The Legacy of the Plains Museum tells the stories of the diverse peoples that have called the high plains home. We feature Native American, Germans from Russia, Japanese, Hispanic, Greek, and many others that have shaped our community into what it has become today. Our Japanese Hall, a communal center built in 1929, will be opened in early 2024 and will tell the stories of the trials and triumphs of the Japanese Community.

The Legacy of the Plains Museum is open daily, closed during winter holidays, and has several events and activities going on throughout the year, which makes the Museum truly a must stop for everyone.

Legacy of the Plains Museum 2930 Old Oregon Trail Gering NE 69341 308.436.1989 info@legacyoftheplains.org www.legacyoftheplains.org

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.

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.

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.

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.”

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

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

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

Historical Park

Church of Keystone

Need to know information Road

Conditions

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

Information centers

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

Time Zones ---

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

Airports

Western Nebraska has airports with airline service to and from Denver at Alliance, (308) 762-4512; Chadron, (308) 252-5731; North Platte, (800) 864-8331; and Scottsbluff, (308) 635-4941.

Regional Intercity Bus Services

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

Pine Ridge

Sandhills & Scenic Rivers Trails West Wild West

Scenic byways

Toadstool Geologic Park

High Plains Homestead

Hudson-Meng Education and Research Center

Fort Robinson State Park

Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center

Museum of the fur Trade

Chadron State Park

Carhenge

Alliance Historic Main Street

Alliance Central Park Fountain

Scotts Bluff National Monument

Riverside Discovery Center

Chimney Rock

Courthouse Rock and Jail Rock

Tin Roof Sundae

National Pony Express Monument

Ash Hollow State Historical Park

Dawes County Historical Museum

Buffalo Bill State Historical Park

Western Nebraska Tourism Coalition Professional services offices

Chairman – Kerri Rempp – Chadron

Vice Chairman – Mike Kesselring – Harrison

Secretary – Karla Niedan-Streeks – Gering

Treasurer – Kirsten Parker – North Platte

Address for the WNTC Professional

Offices: 1249 N. Homestead RoadNorth Platte, NE 69101 info@VisitWestNebraska.com www.WestNebraska.com

OMAha magazine

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.

Tanking and toadstool park photos provided by nebraska tourism

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

City of Alliance (308) 762-5400 Visitalliance.com

Bayard

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

Big Springs

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

Bridgeport

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

Chadron

Discover Northwest Nebraska (308) 432-3006 Discovernwnebraska.com

Chappell

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

Crawford

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

Gering

Gering Visitors Bureau (308) 436-6886 Visitgering.com

Hemingford

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

Kimball

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

Mitchell

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

Morrill

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

Mullen

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

North Platte

Visit North Platte (308) 532-4729 Visitnorthplatte.com

Oshkosh

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

Potter

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

Rushville

Sheridan County Tourism Visitsheridancounty.com

Scottsbluff

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

Sidney

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

Sutherland

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

Thedford

Thomas County Tourism (308) 645-2715 Thomascountynebraska.us

Byways CONTACTS

Hwy 2

Sandhills Journey National Scenic Byway (308) 546-0636 Sandhillsjourney.com

Hwy 20

Bridges to Buttes Byway Discovernwnebraska.com Visitsheridancounty.com

HWY US 26/NE 92

Western Trails Historic & Scenic Byway (308) 284-4066 (Ogallala) (308) 436-6886 (Gering) Westerntrailsnebyway.com

Hwy 385

Gold Rush Byway VisitSidneyNE.com Discovernwnebraska.com

Hwy 30

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

CHADRON

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.

Fort Robinson State Park pictured left

Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center At Chadron State College

Carmen and John GottschalkMari 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.

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

Free admission

Hours:

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

Your Time in Pine Ridge Country begins with a hearty meal from the award-winning

Attractions

#PINE RIDGE

Agate Fossil Beds National Monument Oglala National Grassland Toadsto0l Geologic Park Hudson-Meng Education & Research Center Fossil Hunting Horseback Riding Fort Robinson State Park High Plains Homestead 9 10 11 12 13 14 15

Mountain Biking Dawes County Historical Museum

Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center Museum of the fur Trade

Metcalf WildLife Management Area

Tri-state Old Time Cowboy Museum Trailside Museum of Natural History

WesternTrailsByway

NorthPlatteRiver

Photos

« Museum of the Fur Trade is the only museum in the world dedicated exclusively to the fur trade era. It is three 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 Bordeaux Trading Post 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.

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.

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 became a legitimate

competition, garnering attention from around the world. Characters such as 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 1,000-mile race route. The former Blaine Hotel is an apartment complex today. Pose for a selfie at 159 Bordeaux St.

Dawes County Historical Society, Inc. began as Pioneer Historical Society in 1935. The Museum proudly tells the story of Dawes County, its towns, and surrounding area. With artifacts, photographs, memorabilia, as well as thousands of documents of the settlement, growth, and development. The campus with its improved accessibility contains three large exhibit buildings, a log cabin and barn, school, church, blacksmith shop, and train caboose to explore. Collections of pens, license plates, radios, farm equipment, toys, military, railroad items, dollars, telephones, and quilts. Contact us at (308) 432-4999, on Facebook or visit the website at www.dawescountyhistoricalmuseum.org

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

Chadron

2023 Events

FESTIVAL OF QUILTS

April 28-30. Learn about quilts with lectures, demonstrations, appraisals, feature quilters and a large trunk show at Assumption Arena. (308)-430-5615.

FUR TRADE DAYS

July 13-16. 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 28-August 5. 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, drinks and vendors mix downtown. (308) 432-4401.

HARVEST MOON FALL FESTIVAL

Oct. 7. A family-centered day of fun at the Dawes County Fairgrounds. Kids can enjoy a haunted maze, petting zoo, archery, bounce houses, pumpkin painting and more. With more than 80 vendors on site, the Harvest Moon Fall Festival is a great spot to find unique gift items, sample great food and spend the day with family and friends.

fort robinson

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.

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. (308) 665-2431; legendbuttesgolfcourse.com

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-plus-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. 602-620-5755

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

Fort Robinson State Park is three 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.

Visitors can enjoy cookouts, trail rides, hiking, and a summer repertory theater at the Post Playhouse. There’s lodging in officers' houses, and camping at 172 RV sites and also 30 tent sites.

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 often soar overhead here.

Take Highway 2/71 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, a campground, and a reconstructed sod house. Go five miles north from Crawford on Highway

2, then 10 miles northwest on Toadstool Road. Go slowly, as the non-paved roads can be challenging, especially when wet.

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.

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 Sandcreek Road and go six miles west. Open selected days from May-September. Allow meandering cattle and rattlesnakes the right of way. (308) 665-3900.

Three and a half miles up Sandcreek Rd. you will discover High Plains Homestead, an authentic 1880’s village, mercantile, and group lodging facility. The village is open to the public daily. Come spend the day or bring your group out for the week and enjoy this "out of the way and out of the ordinary" place. Lodging reservations call 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 can 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 2023 Events

CRAWFORD 4TH OF JULY

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

CRAWFORD

ROCK SWAP

Sept. 1-4, 2023. Rockhounds of all ages enjoy trading their finds with the many vendors who participate in the swap, and daily field trips allow new and experienced rockhounds to add to their collections. The event, Nebraska's largest outdoor rock show, also includes an auction, hot dog feed and the annual Fairburn Agate Collectors Gathering.

Harrison 2023 Events

SIOUX COUNTY FAIR

July 28-August 6 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.

Chimney Rock

| 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 of town on Sowbelly Road. Make a pitstop at Coffee Park for a picnic, fishing, or birdwatching.

In 1876, the 5th U.S. Calvary clashed with Cheyenne at what is known as Warbonnet Battlefield. Buffalo Bill killed Yellow Hand here. Go three miles east of Harrison on Highway 20, then 16 miles north on Pants Butte Road, then four 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) 665-4113.

Contact the Sioux County Travel and Visitors Board (308) 430-8493. 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 information www.visitsheridancounty.com

Hay Springs | 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.

For more information, www.visitsheridancounty.com

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.

For more information, www.visitsheridancounty.com

Ellsworth

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

Fort

HOTELS & MOTELS PHONE ROOMS AMENITIES

UNIQUE

LODGING

Crow Butte View Cabins & Camping, 934 Bethel Rd, 5 mi. S. of Hwy 20 between Chadron and Crawford aunt-myrnas-cabin.com

PHONE AMENITIES

308-665-5396

Down Home Guest Ranch House 10 mi. S. of Crawford on Hwy 2/71 www.downhomeranchhouse.com 602-620-5755

High Plains Homestead

263 Sandcreek Rd., 16 mi. N., Crawford www.highplainshomestead.com 308-665-2592

Our Heritage Guest Ranch 1041 Toadstool Rd, 16 mi. N.W. & 7 mi. N.W., Crawford ourheritageguestranch.com 308-430-1239

Spring Creek Ranch 90 Holmgren Road, Crawford, NE 69339

308-430-1717

Schoolhouse B&B, 1312 W. Ash Creek Rd., Crawford 308-665-1814

Bridges to Buttes Cottage, 1113 6th St, Crawford, NE 69339 605-641-3852 or 308-360-0508

Crawford

Fort

Soldier

Toadstool

GOLF COURSES

RATE RANGE

Trails, hunting, stargazing, horse lodging. Aunt Myrna's Cabin sleeps 10 and other camping sites and cabins are coming soon. 95+

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

All our “Glamping” rooms have private baths, mini-fridge, microwave and coffeemaker. RV’s and tenting welcome, bath house available. Fully equipped Community Kitchen and large grill on village patio for all to share. Heated pool, group rates. Open seasonally, May 1-October 31.

Call for rates

80+

Wheelchair accessible, rooms with private and shared bath, full breakfast. Sleeps 15. Ranch activities, hiking, fossil hunting, and wedding venue. 1-75

Open for hunting seasons and extended stays of one week or more. Private setting with scenic views. 200-300

Cozy schoolhouse with private bath, full breakfast, bird watching, stargazing, hunting 51-75

Settle in to this cozy cottage with a full kitchen, Wifi and a private backyard. 100-150

HOLES & TYPE Call for hours & tee times. RATE RANGE

Legend Buttes Golf Course, 3440 US Hwy 20, Crawford 1/2 mi. W. on US Hwy 20, legendbuttesgolfcourse.com 308-665-2431 9, public Under 15

Agate Fossil Beds National Monument

HOTELS & MOTELS PHONE ROOMS AMENITIES RATE RANGE

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, chadronbunkhouse.com 308-432-5591 21 Pets allowed 1-50

Motel Grand 1050 W US Hwy 20, Chadron

308-432-5595 20 Restaurant next door, pets allowed Rate Varies

Holiday Inn Express 247 Ash St., Chadron 308-747-2223 68

Super 8 Motel 840 W. US Hwy 20, Chadron 308-872-9769 45

Chadron Inn & Suites

755 Microtel Dr., S. US Hwy 385 & 8th St. Exit, Chadron 308-646-3838 43

Amenities: 24-hour fitness center, pool, business center, free breakfast, wifi, Keurig, fridge, microwave in every room 98+

Wheelchair accessible, indoor pool, free continental breakfast, pets allowed 51-75+

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 westernermotel@gpcom.net 308-432-5577 800-947-0847 27 Free wi-fi, cable TV, park in front of your door 60-80

UNIQUE LODGING PHONE AMENITIES RATE RANGE

Crow Butte View Cabins & Camping, 934 Bethel Rd., 5 mi. S. of Hwy 20 between Chadron and Crawford facebook.com/CabinAuntMyrnas 308-665-5396 Trails, hunting, stargazing, horse lodging. Aunt Myrna's Cabin sleeps 10 and other camping sites and cabins are coming soon 95+

Northwest Nebraska High Country www.nebraskahighcountry.com

308-665-1580

Olde Main Street Inn 115 Main St., Chadron 308-432-3380

The group includes 15-20 hunting lodges and bed and breakfast operations in this organization. Visit the website to view the list 75-110

Rustic country inn on National Register of Historic Places, rooms with private bath, full continental breakfast 1-75+

Lazy A Ranch 3180 Table Road, Hay Springs, NE 69347 308-430-0969 Unique environment on a working ranch, providing convenience and relaxation. Horse motel onsite •

Sheepwagon Hideouts 61 Country Club Road, Chadron, NE 69337

308-432-5954 Stay in a primitive sheepwagon for a unique experience. Sunshower, wood burning stoves, horse motel onsite. •

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

HOTELS & MOTELS PHONE ROOMS AMENITIES RATE RANGE

Jefco Inn

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

308-282-2935 22

Western Sands Motel 107 W. US Hwy 20, Gordon 308-282-1795 20

Antler’s Motel, 607 E. 2nd St., Rushville 308-327-2444 20

Wheelchair accessible, free continental breakfast, guest laundry 65+

Wheelchair accessible, pets allowed, free wifi 55+

Free continental breakfast, pets allowed, Patio BBQ grill 42-77

Nebraskaland Motel, 508 E. 2nd St., Rushville 308-327-2487 15 Pets allowed, free wifi, large groups welcome, kitchenettes 45+

CAMPGROUNDS PHONE OPEN AMENITIES FEES

Hamilton Park E. US Hwy 20, Gordon, www.gordon-ne.us

308-762-3860 Apr.-Oct. Room for 6 trailers Call for rates

Tomahawk Park 200 W. US Hwy 20, Gordon, www.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 6 NE Park Permit

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 10

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 that 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

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.

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

Rendezvous for black powder shoots, reenactments, games, food, and more!

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.

Raiders

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.

WesternTrailsByway

NorthPlatteRiver

Attractions #TRAILS WEST

western trails scenic byway riverside discovery center scotts bluff national monument Robidoux trading post wildcat hills state recreation area Lake Minatare 7 8 9 10 11 12

north platte national wildlife refuge chimney rock courthouse rock & Jail Rock crescent lake national wildlife refuge goose hunting capital ash hollow state park

Prehistoric Wonders Settling the west

«

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.

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, 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.

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 four 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 include 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 habitation 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.

Hot Air Balloon over Scotts Bluff National Monument

Robidoux Trading Post is relocated to a new site on the original Oregon Trail near Five Rocks Amphitheater in Gering. The post sits on the grasslands amidst the backdrop of the sandstone beacons of Saddle, Eagle, Sentinel, Crown, and Dome Rocks. A short drive west from the post takes travelers along Robidoux Road through rugged country past pioneer graves marked and unknown and visible wagon swales. Travel slowly to glimpse elk, mule deer, golden eagles, and huge flocks of wild turkeys.

Entrance to the Robidoux Trading Post is at the intersection of Five Rocks Road and D Street on the south side of Gering.

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

Gering

2023 Events

FATHER’S DAY ROCK-N-ROLL CLASSIC CAR SHOW

June 16-17. More than 300 classics from seven states roll into Five Rocks Amphitheater for this day-long show and shine. (308) 436-6886.

ROBIDOUX RENDEZVOUS

June 24. A meeting between seasoned and intermediate riders looking for a fun and challenging day on the bike. The roads we ride follow the same paths as Native Americans, fur traders, and travelers on the Oregon, California, and Mormon Trails. See for yourself as you ride by literal wagon ruts, covered wagons, and pioneer graves on the final stretch over Robidoux Pass. www.robidouxrendezvous.com

OREGON TRAIL DAYS

July 13-16. 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.

OLD WEST BALLOON FEST

August 9-12. Scotts Bluff County skies fills 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 16-17. 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.

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

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. 8,500) and with Terrytown (pop. 1,200) sandwiched between, the Scottsbluff/Gering metro area is the largest population center in Western Nebraska.

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 the Scotts Bluff Area Visitors Bureau at www.VisitScottsBluff.com

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. 42

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, 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. 42

Morrill, population of 921, is a terrific 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. »

« 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, Mi Casa Mexican Restaurant serves traditional Mexican dishes, and the Rustic Tavern Bar and Grill prepares one of the best steaks in the valley along with some great down-home-cooked lunch specials.

Scottsbluff

2023 Events

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 to 11 a.m. on Saturday mornings downtown between Broadway and First Avenue. www.Facebook.com/ScottsbluffFarmersMarket.

PAPA MOON CIDER HOUSE FIREFLY FESTIVAL

July. Papa Moon Vineyards and Cider House annual firefly viewing; fireflies are only visible at nightfall and tours begin around 8:45 pm.  Fireflies are only out when weather is nice; additional events include food vendors, wine and cider tastings.

OLD WEST BALLOON FEST

August. Scotts Bluff County skies fill 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

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.

Garden County

2023 Events

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.

Blue Water features art and photography from local artists and photographers in a restored art deco gas station that also houses a body shop. The Most Unlikely Place is a unique combination of cafe, art gallery, gift shop, and events venue. Reach both at (308) 778-9557.

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 four parks; City Park with playground equipment and picnic shelters; Veteran’s Park with veteran markers and a gazebo; Legion Baseball field on FoMo Park and three 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 three ponds that are stocked with fish annually. Morrill also offers a nine-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.

Mitchell | pg. 42

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, nine-hole course, two 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, 2021, and 2022.

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

Bayard | pg. 41

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, tepee sleeping, RV parking, and camper hookups. Take in stunning views while golfing at the ninehole 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 by hand using organic farming principles. With 60 varieties, you will find your perfect pumpkin here! Located seven 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. 41

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. 41

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. Visitors can 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. 43

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.

Lewellen | pg. 43

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. Check out hiking maps on trailheads and at the Visitor’s Center. (308) 778-5651.

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.

Morrill County

2023 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 and 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.

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

Oshkosh | pg. 43

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 nine-hole course 1 mile south of town. Oregon Trail ruts cross the second fairway. (308) 772-3881.

Contact the Garden County Visitors Committee. Visitgardencounty.com.

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.

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!

HOTELS & MOTELS PHONE ROOMS AMENITIES RATE RANGE

Arcadia Hotel, 3655 N. 10th St., Gering

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 25+

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

Hotel 21 & Co.

308-633-7660 888-693-8262 54

2605 10th St., Gering www.hotel21Gering.com 308-633-5795 32

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

308-436-1950 866-436-1950 60

24-hour convenience store, complimentary hot breakfast, fitness center, indoor pool, onsite beer and wine bar 95+

Elegant hotel suites, private off-street parking, meeting-banquet facilities, 24-hour front desk, lounge and bar, free Wi-Fi, family and business suites, fitness center and coffee and tea makers in all rooms.

100+

Wheelchair accessible, free continental breakfast and we allow dogs. 75+

CAMPGROUNDS PHONE OPEN AMENITIES FEES

Robidoux

Monument Shadows Golf Course 2550 Clubhouse Dr., Gering 308-635-2277

HOTELS & MOTELS

Championship 18-hole golf course with 4 tees ranging from 4901 to 6870 yards. Fun and challenging course for players of all levels. Amenities: Driving range, putting green, full-service restaurant and the most scenic views of Scotts Bluff National Monument

PHONE ROOMS AMENITIES RATE RANGE

Candlelight Inn, 1822 E. 20th Place, Scottsbluffs 308-635-3751 56

Capri Motel, 2424 Ave. I, Scottsbluff 308-635-2057 30

Comfort Inn, 1902 21st Ave., Scottsbluff www.choicehotels.com 308-632-7510 49

Fairfield Inn & Suites Marriott, 902 Winter Creek Dr., Scottsbluff, www.marriott.com/hotels 308-633-3500 85

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

Holiday Inn Express, 1821 Frontage Rd., Scottsbluff www.hiexpress.com/scottsbluffne 308-632-1000 70

Wheelchair accessible, outdoor pool, free continental breakfast 51-75+

Wheelchair accessible, free continental breakfast, pets allowed 1-50

Wheelchair accessible, indoor pool, free continental breakfast, pets allowed 75+

Wheelchair accessible, free Wi-Fi, free parking, balcony, outdoor fire pit, complimentary hot breakfast, pool & spa 75+

Meeting rooms onsite, Indoor Pool and Spa, Fitness Room, Wheelchair accessible and free continental breakfast. 75+

Wheelchair accessible, indoor pool, free continental breakfast 75+

Lamplighter

Scottsbluff

EconoLodge

Riverside

Captain

Restaurant

Wheelchair

Wheelchair

RV

Lewellen, Lisco & Oshkosh

HOTELS & MOTELS

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

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

PHONE ROOMS AMENITIES RATE RANGE

308-672-0690 22

308-355-3535 888-767-7791 8

Otter Creek Lodge, 100 Otter Creek Ct., Lewellen, Lake McConaughy, 12 mi. from dam on Hwy 92 308-355-2372 9

Mesa View Lodge NE Hwy 92 W, Lewellen, Lake McConaughy

Riverview Lodge & Events Center, 14518 Rd. 70, 1 mi. S., 1 mi. W., Lisco, www.riverviewlodgelisco.com

Wheelchair accessible, workout room, pets allowed 65-100

Wheelchair accessible, restaurant on premises 51-75

Restaurant on premises, pets allowed 1-50

308-355-5000 888-568-7620 10 Pets allowed 1-75

308-772-3829 11

Full bath, satellite TV, hair dryer, broadband internet, handicap accessible, microwave and refrigerator 81-119

Shady Rest, 201 Main Street, Oshkosh www.visitgardenco.com 308-772-4111 12 Wheelchair accessible, pets allowed 1-75

UNIQUE LODGING PHONE AMENITIES RATE RANGE

Gander

St.,

Nancy B's Backyard Bunkhouse, 19150 Rd. 44, US Hwy 26 to Rd. 44 W., Lewellen, www.ilovelakemac.com 308-778-5408 3-bedroom guesthouse or tepee, continental breakfast 51-75+

Hunt the Rackett 9250 Rd. 193, Lewellen, www.hunttherackett.com 303-680-2462 Private sleeping quarters, clubhouse, dining hall, weathertight dog kennels 200+

CAMPGROUNDS PHONE OPEN AMENITIES FEES

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

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

Pleasant View Lodge at Otter Creek 1290 NE Hwy 92 W, Lewellen

308-778-9552 •

308-778-5879 Year Round

308-355-5000 888-568-7620 Year Round

Oregon Trail Campsite, 402 W. Ave. A, Oshkosh www.oregontrailcampsite.com 308-778-7395 Apr. 1-Nov. 1

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

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

RV Amenities: electricity, water, sewer, room for 15 trailers. Rest Facilities: showers, flush toilets. Camping: 7 tents 5-20 fees

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

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.

Sidney Golf pictured left

Platte | pg. 54

North Platte boasts a heritage of hospitality dating back to one of its most famous residents, Colonel William F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody. In 1878 Buffalo Bill settled in North Platte and built Scout’s Rest Ranch. He and his wife Louisa loved to entertain. They welcomed locals as well as dignitaries from across the nation and around the world. Buffalo Bill State Historical Park showcases their Victorian home, expansive horse barn, and outbuildings of Scout’s Rest Ranch. The site features Wild West Show memorabilia, period household furnishings, shaded picnic areas, and easy walking trails.

During World War II, North Platte continued this spirit of hospitality by starting the North Platte Canteen. Everyone in the community pitched in to greet and serve over six million service men and women with food, drinks, gifts, and much needed kindness. As you step through the doors of the Lincoln County Historical Museum, you will find a wide array of local history, including the story of the North Platte Canteen and how a case of mistaken identity started this selfless act. Behind the museum is a village of historical buildings, including a genuine Pony Express station and the old Fort McPherson headquarters.

You will notice that the legacy of the North Platte Canteen is sprinkled across the city, including the newly renovated downtown area. Now known as the Canteen District, this area is thriving with unique shops, restaurants, and historical buidings. One of these historical buildings is the 1913 Federal building that now houses the Prairie Arts Center, which hosts art galleries, classes, and many other unique events throughout the year. Tour the historic Canteen District for an experience you won’t soon forget.

Located just south of Interstate 80, the 20th Century Veterans Memorial honors all military men and women of the past century. A brick bas-relief sculpture depicts the major wars from World War I to the Persian Gulf. Bronze statues depict the United States armed forces and the women of the North Platte Word War II Canteen.

North Platte is also the home of Union Pacific’s Bailey Yard. This is the world’s largest classification rail yard, and it covers nearly 3,000 acres. More than 10,000 rail cars pass through daily. The Golden Spike Tower rises eight stories above Bailey Yard to give visitors a bird’s-eye view of the operation. An elevator takes visitors to the seventh floor open air observation

deck, or the eighth floor for a one-of-a-kind enclosed viewing experience. This incredible view is something you can’t find anywhere else in the world.

Another North Platte treasure is Fort Cody Trading Post. You can’t miss this unique building, which resembles a frontier fortress. Take a step inside Fort Cody, and you will find Nebraska’s largest souvenir and western gift shop, plus a museum with authentic Buffalo Bill Cody and Wild West memorabilia. Near the back, a mini mechanized Wild West Show is on display with 20,000 handcarved pieces. This one-of-a-kind machine comes to life every half hour with moving parts and storytelling. The surprises don’t end there, though, as they also have a taxidermied two-headed calf on display. Out back, there is a stockade complete with a jail, wagons, and a log cabin. Each summer the Fort Cody Summer Music Series takes place here under the watchful eye of one of the few remaining Muffler Man sculptures, now decorated as a Native American.

The Buffalo Bill theme doesn’t end there. He is also memorialized at Cody Park on North U.S. Highway 83. The Wild West Memorial is at the entrance of the park and includes a bronze statue of Cody as well as a flag from each state and nation where his Wild West show performed. As you continue into the park, you will find the Cody Park Railroad Museum, where you can sit in the driver’s seat of a Union Pacific 3900 Series Challenger locomotive and a diesel locomotive. Railroad history can be found in the train cars behind the Challenger, and you can check out the old depot that was brought to the park from the neighboring town of Hershey. After the train museum, stop at the concessions stand, where you will find some of the best soft serve ice cream, as well as other sweet treats and snacks. There is an antique carousel, ferris wheel, and other fun rides that every kid is sure to love. The park is also home to animals that you can watch and feed such as bison, deer, elk, peacocks, llamas, and more.

North Platte is also located along America’s Great Platte River Road, which means that it is rich in the great westward migration history. Monuments for the Oregon Trail, Mormon Trail, California Trail, and the Pony Express can be found in the area. North of Sutherland on Prairie Trace Road, remnants of the Mormon Trail can be seen. At the Sutherland Eastbound Interstate 80 rest area there are remains of ruts left by pioneers traveling the Oregon Trail.

For a true Nebraska experience you can tank down the North Platte river with Dusty Trails, LLC. The perfect vessel for a lazy river float happens to be an empty cattle tank filled with chairs, a cooler, and friends. Nothing says summer like a great day on the river. If water sports aren’t your thing, Dusty Trails also offers horseback riding and a petting zoo.

To unwind from a long day of traveling, you can stop at one of North Platte’s local breweries. Pals Brewing Company offers unique craft beer, like their Jalapeno Cream Ale. They also offer a full menu of pizza and appetizers. Peg Leg Brewing is another local favorite and offers a variety of wonderful craft beers, including their Irish Red. Peg Leg often hosts food trucks and has a great snack menu. If wine is more your style, then a stop at Feather River Vineyard is a must. The mineral rich soil offers a unique flavor to their wine made from grapes grown right on-site.

If you are looking for a unique shopping experience, Grain Bin Antique Town is the place for you! What started as a “She Shed” has blossomed into a boardwalk of 20 antique grain bins and a barn filled with all the antiques you can imagine.

The North Platte River Valley is also home to the magnificent Sandhill Crane Migration. Each spring hundreds of thousands of Sandhill Cranes stop in Nebraska to fuel up before heading on north to their breeding grounds. While they are here, they spend their days in cornfields and meadows eating grains and bugs and their evenings bedding down in the shallow rivers. Dusty Trails offers morning viewing blinds, evening viewing blinds, and afternoon bus tours that allow guests to experience this incredible migration.

Five miles south of town, Lake Maloney State Recreation Area provides fishing, boating, camping, and picnicking as well as archery, golf, and wildlife watching. For indoor recreation, visitors can head to WB’s Fun Center for bowling, laser tag, and more.

North Platte offers two 18-hole golf courses, so plan to play a round at Lake Maloney Golf Course, or River’s Edge Golf Course—or check out Indian Meadows for a beautiful nine-hole course.

For more information about North Platte, contact Visit North Platte at (800) 955-4528 or visitnorthplatte.com.

Lincoln County

2023 Events

SANDHILL CRANES

March. Every year beginning in late February, hundreds of thousands of Sandhill Cranes migrate into the Platte River Valley in Lincoln County. They will spend about six weeks here, roosting in the river bottoms at night and spending their days in the cornfields, alfalfa, and meadows between North Platte and Sutherland. Dusty Trails offers multiple viewing experiences for this magnificent migration.visitnorthplatte.com/springbirding

PRAIRIE CHICKEN DANCE

March-April. In the Spring, the hearts of the Nebraska greater prairie chickens turn towards love. To successfully attract a female mate, the male prairie chickens must impress them with their dancing prowess. Males will gather in large numbers on dancing grounds known as leks. They will cackle, jump, and stomp their feet, sometimes scuffling with a rival. Dusty Trails hosts an excursion to a large, busy lek south of Sutherland. visitnorthplatte.com/springbirding

NEBRASKALAND DAYS

June. 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 legendary PRCA Buffalo Bill Rodeo and closes with the Summer Jam Concert Series. This year the performers will be Cody Sonnson and Jason Aldean. Other activities include a craft beer festival, parade, art show, quilt show, pork breakfast, carnival, and more. NEBRASKAlandDAYS.com

FORT CODY SUMMER MUSIC SERIES

Summer. Managed by NRoute Entertainment, the Fort Cody Summer Music Series has been entertaining music lovers since 2011, every Thursday night in the summer running from 6 pm to 9 pm. Bring your favorite lawn chair and join us! Single admission or season tickets available

NORTH PLATTE POW WOW

July. The North Platte Pow Wow showcases Native American dancing, singing, and drumming. There are contests for traditional, fancy, jingle dress, and grass dances. There are also special dances for golden age, tiny tot, and veteran participants. A special dance for local interest is the Men’s Chicken Dance, which mimics the dancing rituals of the greater prairie chicken. visitnorthplatte.com/north-platte-pow-wow

NORTH PLATTE RAIL DAYS

August. Where would you expect to find the great est rail celebration in the world? Why, at the home of the world’s largest rail yard! The Golden Spike Tower and Visitor Center invites you to North Platte to experience our incredible railroad heri tage held annually in early August. Rail Days is the one and only time throughout the year when visi tors can experience Bailey Yard up-close-and-per sonal with a motorcoach tour through the yard. goldenspiketower.com

WESTERN NEBRASKA CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL September. Hosted by Pals Brewing Company the Western Nebraska Craft Beer Festival is your chance to taste wonderful craft beer from across Nebraska. Purchase VIP tickets for early access and you will be able to sample beer that may be gone by the afternoon. Food trucks and live music make this an event you won’t want to miss. palsbrewingcompany.com/beerfest

NATIONAL AVOCADO LAUNCHING September. The National Avocado Launching Championship is exactly what it sounds like: a national avocado launching championship. Teams of three will prepare for the competition by building and testing a launching mechanism all of their own, and then compete to score the most points by launching avocados at targets. There is not only prize money on the line, but also ultimate glory, and a national title. AvocadoLaunching.com

NORTH PLATTE CANTEEN FESTIVAL

October. This celebration honors the selfless ness of the World War II Canteen efforts, a time when North Platte served over six million military persons passing through. This event takes place in the newly revitalized downtown area, which is now known as the Historic Canteen District. This event features performances of a Canteen themed production, live music, and a vendor show. visitnorthplatte.com/north-platte-canteen-festival

FALL FUN

October. If you are looking for fall fun in North Platte there are two great pumpkin patches that are sure to get you in the autumn mood. Homestead Pumpkin Patch features a corn maze, zip lines, a bounce pillow, and much more. Dusty’s Pumpkin Fest at the Cody’s is brought to you by Dusty Trails and has a corn crib, horse drawn hayrack rides, a petting zoo, and more. There really is no better way to spend a fall day! visitnorthplatte.com/celebrate-fall

Lincoln County »

biking trails and is open to the public. Old Depot Winery, a family-friendly winery with delicious Nebraska wine and menu items.

In August, this small town celebrates Brady Days in a big way with a barbecue meal, classic car show, live music, children’s games, a parade, and more.

From Cheyenne

1 2 3 4 5 6

Attractions #WILD WEST

Panorama Point

Potter sundry Lincoln Highway National Pony Express monument Cabela's Haythorn ranch

Hershey |

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 art.

Along Highway 30, Veterans Memorial Park has a half-mile long walking trail, playground equipment, and outdoor exercise equipment. The local baseball and softball fields are also located in the park.

Hershey Fall Fest is held the last week in August and provides family fun for residents and visitors alike.

Sutherland

| pg. 57

Sutherland Reservoir offers swimming, camping, birdwatching, and fishing. Releases of warm water from the Gerald Gentleman Station power plant means open water fishing opportunities all year long. The reservoir is also home to hundreds of bald eagles and thousands of waterfowl.

7 8 9 10 11

Sutherland reservoir golden Spike tower at bailey yard buffalo bill ranch state historical park fort mcPherson national cemetery bird watching

Prehistoric Wonders

Settling the west

The Great OutDoors Pioneer trails One-of-a-Kinds Unique Geology Welcome Centers/Rest Areas

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

Anchor Memorial Park in the northeast part of town has a dog park, playground, and disc golf course. The local swimming pool located just off Highway 30 has a zero-depth entrance, small frog slide, and a big water slide. It’s the perfect place to go for a summer cool down. You can also visit the Sutherland History Center, which 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. The festivities include a rodeo on July 3rd and 4th, plus a full day of family fun and entertainment on July 4th.

Sidney | pg. 58

Let’s step back in time to the year 1875. What was once a town of 500 people was now the jumping-off point for fortune seekers headed to the Black Hills of South Dakota. The following year, up to 1,500 people a day passed through the dusty streets of Sidney. It was what every great western movie was made of, with the rumored 80 saloons, gaming halls, brothels, and dance halls that lined the streets along the tracks. Business in the town was booming. The town had made a name for itself: “The Toughest Town on the Tracks," “Wickedest Town In The West," and the one that stuck, “Sinful Sidney.”

As the legend of the town grew, so did its population. Some of the biggest names of the Old West walked down the streets here. The likes of Buffalo Bill Cody, Wild Bill Hickok, Calamity Jane, Butch Cassidy, Doc Middleton, and Walter Reed all had Sidney dust on their boots. Between 1876 to 1881, over 1,000 murder cases were prosecuted here in Sidney. The everyday robberies, murders, and hangings prompted

the trains to stop a mile out of town to let people off, then lock the doors as they passed through Sidney. Because these trains were the lifeblood of the town, business owners took things into their own hands by rounding up 16 of the worst offenders that ended in a public hanging from the courthouse tree.

The rowdy days of Sidney are long gone. But the colorful history of the town is still embraced. Sidney is the only Western Nebraska community with a “Historic District” designation with 29 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can enjoy a GPS-enabled walking tour of highlighted downtown buildings and historic places of the city by downloading the TRAVELSTORYS app for Apple or Android phones, or by visiting travelstorys.com. While on the tour, you may want to stop in the shops, restaurants, brewery, and theater located in the downtown.

If you are looking to enjoy some of the rich history of Sidney, your first stop would be Camp Lookout. This structure is located at 940 East Elm Street and was built in 1867.

It was originally built for soldiers from Fort Sedgwick, Colorado, to set up an outpost along Lodgepole Creek. As the Union Pacific railroad moved across Nebraska, the surveyors and workers came into conflict with Native Americans who already occupied the land. The soldiers established a post at the top of the hill north of town. This eight-room block house, which also served as the local jail, initially had a cupola with swing-out shutters. Four soldiers could stand in the cupola at a time while defending the camp. This building later served as a lookout for the gold vaults for gold coming back from the Black Hills. To schedule a tour, please contact 308-254-5395.

Sidney Boot Hill Cemetery was once a national story. The cemetery was active from 1868 to 1894. It was originally created for fallen soldiers sent to protect the railroad. As Sidney grew, so did the cemetery. Buried there were soldiers, business owners, gunslingers, and anyone else who died in Sidney during that time. What made it a national story was the fact that in 1922 the United States government ordered the bodies of 21 soldiers to be exhumed and relocated to Fort McPherson. Since the cemetery had been used as farmland after 1894, there was no way of knowing where to start. In the end, every soldier was accounted for. It took uncovering 211 graves to find those soldiers and leaving an unknown number of graves behind. People

came from all over the country to watch this gruesome task. Both Camp Lookout and the Boot Hill Cemetery were restored by the Boot Hill Restoration Committee. The story of this cemetery is told on the monument at the entrance behind the flag. To schedule a tour, please call 308-254-5395.

In 1869, the outpost in Fort Sedgwick was relocated to its present site in Sidney. It was renamed the Fort Sidney Barracks . While the fort was active it had 40 buildings, including quarters for three companies of soldiers, five officers, a three-ward hospital, guardhouse, bakery, laundress quarters, stables, store house, and carpenter and blacksmith shops. After the fort was decommissioned in 1894, all buildings were put up for auction. Three original buildings are all that remain of the historical Fort Sidney and are owned by the Cheyenne County Historical Association. The Officers Quarters are now the home of Cheyenne County Museum and located at the corner of 6th Ave. and Jackson Street. The Post Commander’s Home has been restored with original and period furnishings. The third building is the fort's powder magazine. It is an octagonal stone structure that is located at 1047 5th Ave. All three buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Fort Sidney Complex is open Memorial Day through Labor Day, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Annual Christmas Lamplight tours are a popular attraction.

Sidney Legion Park and Memorial Gardens feature the tallest flagpole in Nebraska. The pole itself is 140 feet tall; the flag is 20 feet tall and 38 feet wide. The war memorial is to honor the sacrifice of Cheyenne County Veterans. The Living Memorial Gardens is the home of “Nebraska’s First Angel of Hope,” which is based on the Richard Paul Evans bestselling book, 'The Christmas Box.'   The park also has a new playground that promotes inclusion, exposure, and exploration through play, featuring playground equipment for all children. The pond at the park is the perfect place for a picnic.  Deadwood Walking Trail is a 4.45-mile improved trail for walking, jogging, or riding your bike. This trail takes you through some of the scenic parts of Sidney.

Aquatic exercise opportunities flow from the six-lane competition pool at the 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 through 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.

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 Drive.

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.

For more information about Sidney, contact Cheyenne County Visitors Center. (308)254-4030.

Potter | pg. 57

There are many reasons to visit Potter as you travel along the historic Lincoln Highway or zip across the state on I-80. When you first cross the tracks into town, you will see the Railroad Park complete with playground and lots of shade for a quick picnic. The bar & grill is located on the corner where the Lincoln Highway Café used to exist. The original 1913 route of the Lincoln Highway was positioned through the main street because a livestock operation where the bank stands today spanned the street that is now Front Street.

For an amazing dessert, look no further than The Potter Sundry – home of the famous Tin Roof Sundae. They are open for breakfast and lunch Monday-Saturday. (308)879-4548. Next door to the Sundry, you will find an antique & flea market with the only operational Duckpin Bowling Alley this side of the Mississippi River upstairs. (308)-879-4451.

The Visitors Center across the street offers clean public restrooms and information about the area’s attractions. Up the street, you will find a delightful coffee shop and tap room converted from a 1930’s service station.

Potter has two museums preserving the local history of agriculture and pioneer life. Call (308) 879-4332 to set up a time to visit both.

Another unique stop in Potter is Prairie Pines Golf Course – the only public seven-hole course in Nebraska! (308) 879-4332.

Three miles east of Potter on U.S. Highway 30 is the Point of Rocks, or Buffalo Bend. There were several notable clashes between railroad crews and Native Americans here; this spot is the sharpest curve along the Union Pacific Railroad. The Point of Rocks Motel and Campground is located beneath the Point and offers scenic views for visitors.

For more information about Potter, contact Cheyenne County Visitors Center. (308)254-4030.

Lodgepole

Lodgepole honors its founders during Old Settlers’ Days with a barbeque, parade, and tractor pull on Labor Day weekend. (308) 483-5353.

Lodgepole Depot Museum, 722 McCall Street, displays Pony Express items and antique farm implements. Wheelchair Accessible. (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 HWY 385 (Gold Rush Byway). It features a log cabin and detailed railroad engine models. (308) 377-2413.

Gurley

Fanny’s Fruit Farm & Pumpkin Patch celebrates summer and fall with pick-your-own berries and pumpkins. Plenty of activities abound for the whole family during October at the pumpkin patch. Enjoy snacks and warm beverages at the Carriage House year-round. 11549 Rd. 46. (308) 249-2990.

Lincoln County 2023

Events

CHRISTMAS IN NORTH PLATTE

Every December North Platte transforms into a winter wonderland of Christmas lights. Visit Buffalo Bill State Historical Park to see the house and barn all decked out with holiday cheer during Christmas at the Cody’s. Every building at the Lincoln County Historical Museum also gets lit up with tons of lights and decorations for their Christmas Village. Cody Park joins in the holiday spirit with Santa’s Workshop which has over a dozen tiny, animated houses. visitnorthplatte.com/holiday-fun

Sidney

GOLD RUSH DAYS

2023 Events

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 & 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) 254-7151.

OKTOBERFEST & CRUISE N’ CLASS CAR SHOW

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. Octoberfest (308) 254-2932, Car show (308) 249-0353.

LAMPLIGHT TOURS

Weekends in December. 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.

Potter 2023 Events

POTTER CAR BOWL

June. Enjoy a car show, BBQ competition, beer and wine tasting, duckpin bowling, craft show, live bands, food vendors, and other fun activities to benefit local nonprofit groups. (308) 207-5908.

POTTER DAYS

Labor Day weekend. This annual event includes a 5K run, cornhole tournament, prize drawings, food vendors, golf tournament, parade, live music, free family entertainment and more. Enjoy duckpin bowling and Tin Roof Sundaes all weekend long. (308) 879-4451.

PNCC

Labor Day weekend. Potter, NE was host to off road and enduro races in the mid 70’s, now the next generation in our small community is bringing back this exciting style of racingPNCC is a CORCS sanctioned event spanning over 200 acres with classes for Pro, amateur and youth riders. After racing stay for the PNCC Party in the Pasture featuring live music and a beer garden. www.pnccracing.com

« Lincoln County

Lemoyne

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.

« 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 four 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. 59

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 | pg. 59

The town of Brule is nine 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 | pg. 58

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.

Kimball County

2023 Events

KIMBALL RANCH RODEO– KIMBALL

June. Competitors from surrounding states ride broncs, milk 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 every day. (308) 241-1760.

KIMBALL-BANNER COUNTY FAIR – KIMBALL

First full week of August. Featuring 4-H animal shows, free barbeque, a mare and foal parade, and multiple rodeos.

BUSHNELL DAY– BUSHNELL

Third Saturday of August. A day filled with fun –a parade, vendor show, kids activities, antique truck and tractor show, cornhole tournament, hog roast, live music and more. (308) 360-1358.

ANTELOPE STAMPEDE – KIMBALL

Weekend before Farmers Day. A September gravel bicycle race held in the Western Panhandle of Nebraska, with a 100-mile rolling course traveling through Colorado, Nebraska and Wyoming, and 25 and 50-mile courses in Nebraska. A barbecue and cornhole/horseshoe tournament follow the races.

FARMERS DAY– KIMBALL

Last full weekend of September. Kimball honors those who grow our food with this flavorful smorgasbord of fun. Demolition derby, gun raffle, RC air show, beer garden, dance, and hamburger feed. www.facebook. com/kimballfarmersday

PARADE OF LIGHTS – KIMBALL

Saturday after Thanksgiving. Kimball lights up the night to kick off the Christmas season with a Parade of Lights downtown. Enjoy evening shopping at local businesses along with hot cocoa and Santa.

Chappell | pg. 58

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.

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.

The Plains Historical Society has Kimball’s history displayed downtown at the Fraternal Hall, 200 S. Chestnut St., and at the former Kimball High School, 816 E. 3rd 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 is 5,424 feet and is easily walkable. 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.

Oliver Reservoir Recreation Area has a 270-acre lake for hunting, fishing, boating, camping, playing on sandy beaches, and bird watching. (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, 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.

North Platte

HOTELS & MOTELS PHONE ROOMS AMENITIES RATE RANGE

83 Motel 920 N. Jeffers St 308-532-2313 38

Americas Best Value Inn 602 E. 4th 308-534-4020 33

Best Western Plus 3201 S. Jeffers St. 308-534-3120 146

Comfort Inn & Suites 2809 Halligan Drive 308-562-2736 90

Days Inn 3102 S. Jeffers www.daysinn.com 308-532-9321 47

• 85+•

Outdoor Pool, Pets Allowed, 1. Complimentary Breakfast 75+

Indoor Pool, Complimentary Breakfast, Pets Allowed 100+

Indoor Pool, Complimentary Breakfast, Pets Allowed 100+

Indoor Pool, Complimentary Breakfast, Pets Allowed 75+

Fairfield Inn and Suites 319 W. South River Road www.marriott.com/lbffi 308-532-9900 82 Indoor Pool, Complimentary Breakfast 95+

Hampton Inn North Platte 200 Platte Oasis Pkwy 308-534-6000 111

Holiday Inn Express & Suites 300 Holiday Frontage Rd. www.hiexpress.com/northplattene 308-532-9500 151

Hospitality Inn 501 Halligan Drive 308-532-0151 64

Indoor Pool, Complimentary Breakfast, Pets Allowed 95+

Indoor Pool, Complimentary Breakfast 100+

Complimentary Breakfest, Pets Allowed 75+

Husker Inn 721 E. 4th Street 308-534-6960 13 • 50-75

La Quinta Inn & Suites 2600 Eagles Wing Place wyndhamhotels.com 308-534-0700 65

Indoor Pool,Complimenatry Breakfast, Pets allowed 100+

North Platte Inn & Suites PO Box 788 308-532-0130 75 Pets Allowed 75-90+

Quality Inn 2901 S. Jeffers 308-532-6144 90

Indoor Pool, Complimentary Breakfast, Dogs Allowed 75+

Motel/Studio

UNIQUE LODGING PHONE AMENITIES RATE RANGE

McNeil House Bed & Brew at Pals 2351 W State Farm Road. Book at airBnB.com 308-221-6715 Cute Cottage in the woods, Sleeps 4. Walk To Pals Brewing Company •

CAMPGROUNDS PHONE OPEN AMENITIES FEES

I-80 Lakeside Camping

3800 Hadley Rd.

Buffalo Bill State Historical Park 2921 Scouts Rest Ranch Road

CB's Hideaway 206 W. North Lake Rd

Cody Park 1400 North Jeffers St. www.ci.north-platte.ne.us/publicservices

308-534-5077 Year Round

308-535-8035 Year Round

RV Amenities: Electricity( 30 and 50 amp) water, sewer, Extended Length Pull through sites. Tent sites available. 30+

RV Amenities: electricity, water. Restroom Facilities: pit toilets. Camping: tent sites available . No reservation required. Nebraska State Park Permit Required 25+

308-539-3983 Year Round

RV Amenities: electricity (year-round) water and sewer (April - October) Restroom Facilities: Showers and Flush Toilets. Tent sites available. 30+

308-535-6700 May 1 - Oct 15 Room for 40 trailers. Restroom Facilities: Flush Toilets. Tent sites available 10

Holiday RV Park 601 Halligan Drive www.holidayparkne.com 308-534-2265 Year Round

Lake Maloney State Recreation Area North Lake Road 308-535-8025 Year Round

Lincoln Highway RV Park 4684 Rodeo Road lincolnhighwayrvpark.com 308-534-4910 Year Round

RV Amenities: Electricity, water, sewer. Restroom Facilities: showers, flush toilets. Tent sites available 40+

RV Amenities: electricity, water. Restroom Facilities: Showers, flush and pit toilets. Tent sites available. Nebraska State Park Sticker Required 10+

RV Amenities: 50 AMP electrical hookups, water, sewer, cable and wireless internet. Extra-large pull-through sites. 30+

HOTELS

America's Best Value Inn & Suites 2115 W. Illinois St., W. on US Hwy 30, Sidney 308-254-2081 58

Best Western Plus Sidney Lodge 645 Cabela Dr., I-80 Exit 59, Sidney www.bestwestern.com 308-254-0100 64

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

Country Inn & Suites, 664 Chase Blvd, Sidney 308-254-2000 85

Comfort Inn and Suites, 825 Hoffies Dr., Sidney 308-254-4423 81

Days Inn, 3042 Silverberg Dr., I-80 Exit 59, Sidney www.daysinn.com 308-254-2121 47

Fairfield Inn and Suites, 889 E. Jennifer Ln., Sidney 308-254-9000 75

Hampton Inn, 635 Cabela Dr., Sidney www.hamptoninn.com 308-254-2111 74

Motel 6, 3040 Silverberg Dr., Sidney www.motel6.com 308-254-5463 47

Rodeway Inn & Suites, 935 9th Ave, Sidney www.choicehotels.com/ne213 308-203-1890 50

The King's Inn, 2031 Illiniois St, Sidney www.thekingsinnsidney.com

308-254-4581 18

Wheelchair accessible, free continental breakfast, pets allowed 55-75

Wheelchair accessible, indoor pool, free continental breakfast, pets allowed 99+

WiFi. Walking Trails. Bird Watching. Pets allowed ($). 50-80

Wheelchair accessible, breakfast included, indoor pool, dogs allowed ($) 99+

Wheelchair accessible, free continental breakfast, indoor pool, dogs allowed ($) 95+

Wheelchair accessible, indoor pool, free continental breakfast, pets allowed 89+

Wheelchair accessible, free continental breakfast, alcoholic beverages available for purchase, indoor pool 99+

Wheelchair accessible, indoor pool, free continental breakfast 99+

Wheelchair accessible, pets allowed Call for Rates

50 newly remodeled rooms, free breakfast, laundry, truck parking, handicap accessible (B), Pets allowed ($), free WiFi. 60-100

WiFi, Cable TV, Mini Fridge, Microwave, Coffee Pot 55-75

Admiral’s

North

Mesa

Kimball

HOTELS & MOTELS PHONE ROOMS

1st Interstate Inn, 1704 S. County Rd. 41, Kimball 308-235-4601 29

Days Inn, 611 E. 3rd St., Kimball, www.daysinn.com 308-235-4671 30

Red Door Rentals, 607 E 3rd St., US Hwy 30, Kimball 308-230-2220 16

Motel Kimball, 1017 E. 3rd St., E. US Hwy 30, Kimball 308-235-4606 19

Super 8 Motel, 1701 S. County Rd. 41, I-80 Exit 20, Kimball 308-235-4888 53

CAMPGROUNDS

AMENITIES RATE RANGE

Restaurant on premises, pets allowed 1-50

Wheelchair accessible, free continental breakfast, pets allowed 60-80+

Internet/cable, kitchenette, wheelchair accessible.

•

Wheelchair accessible, pets allowed 45-60

Wheelchair accessible, free continental breakfast, pets allowed 1-75+

PHONE OPEN AMENITIES FEES

Dix RV Park 308-230-0241 308-682-5296 Year Round 30/50 amp services

High Point RV Park 1508 S Hwy 71, Kimball 308-230-2003 Year Round 15/30/50 amp, water, sewer, WiFi, storage, dog park, tent camping

Oliver Reservoir Recreation Area, 8 mi. W. on US Hwy 30, Kimball. 270 acres of water and 917 acres of land 308-254-2377 Year Round

Stahla’s North RV Park 9 Laura St, Kimball

•

RV Amenities: water, room for 75 trailers Rest Facilities: pit toilets. Camping: 100 tents, Dump site. Overnight camping at Oliver Reservoir available from March 1-October 31

308-235-2750 308-235-5373 Year Round 30/50 amp services – RVs, campers, and 5th wheels

•

•

Four Winds, 4530 Gilliland Dr., E. US Hwy 30, Kimball 308-235-4241 18 holes, public 30

HOTELS & MOTELS PHONE ROOMS AMENITIES RATE RANGE

Americ Inn by Wyndham, 501 Stage Coach Trail –Ogallala, NE 69153, www.wyndhamotels.com

Quality Inn, 201 Chuckwagon Rd., Ogallala I-80 Exit 126 N., www.choicehotels.com

308-210-2162

•

308-284-3623 101

Off I-80 and near Lake McConaughy; yearround, free breakfast, wi-fi, pet friendly rooms and easy reach to the lake, golf courses and historical sites. 75+

Wheelchair accessible, restaurant on premises, outdoor pool, free continental breakfast, pets allowed 75+

Hillside golf course

Mullen

2023 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 3-4. 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.

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 on 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 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 accomodations and a menu heavy on Angus beef. Shuffleboard and billiards keep hunters occupied following the hunt. The ranch is 14 miles south of Mullen. (308) 546-0567.

Alliance | pg. 74

Alliance, founded in 1888 is located at the intersection of highways 2 and 385 and is a historic city where you’ll discover the unexpected.

Carhenge, built in 1987 by Jim Reinders and his family, may be the strangest roadside attraction in all of Nebraska. The replica of England’s Stonehenge is built from 39 old cars jutting from the ground, just as Stonehenge’s stones. Souvenirs and gifts can be purchased at the Pit Stop Gift Shop seasonally or online year round.

Carhenge

Admission is free; donations are welcome. www.carhenge.com

A more traditional approach to art can be found at the Carnegie Arts Center , where three galleries regularly rotate exhibitions from Nebraska and neighboring states. www.carnegieartscenter.com

Dobby’s Frontier Town, created by Kenneth “Dobby” Lee, features 26 restored buildings and businesses preserved in history, where you can get a hands-on experience with free admission. Donations are welcome. www.dobbysfrontiertown.com

The Knight Museum & Sandhills Center showcases aspects of early western life including Native American artifacts, railroad memorabilia, and ranch life. www.knightmuseum.com

The Sallows Military Museum honors the many brave men and women who served their country in time of conflict. www.sallowsmilitarymuseum.com

Skyview Golf Course is a beautiful 18-hole championship course located in the rolling Sandhills where tee times are seldom necessary. www.skyviewgc.com

Alliance’s park system spreads throughout the city and includes our legendary Rolling Prairie Disc Golf Course, mesmerizing Central Park Fountain, Historic Pillars & Sunken Gardens, and the beautiful Laing Lake. www.cityofalliance.net

Nebraska Veteran’s Cemetery opened in 2010 at the former Alliance Army Air Field on acres once used as a troop training field. www.vscaf.org

Hemingford | pg. 75

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.

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.

Box Butte Reservoir , a 1600-acre lake, is part of the 2,212-acre Box Butte Reservoir State Recreation Area. The park, located 10 miles north of town, offers excellent boating, swimming, windsurfing, 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.

Hyannis | pg. 76

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. (308) 458-8051. www.calindaspotshop.com. Find her on Facebook.

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. 76

Thedford is a crossroads community along Highway 2. Highway 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

Alliance

2023 Events

THUNDER ON THE PRAIRIE

June. Classic cars cruise to ‘50s and ‘60s music. Poker run, car show, BBQ and dance at the Park. (308) 762-2761.

BANDS ON THE BRICKS

June/July. Friday night's live music, street dancers, and food vendors. (308) 762-5400.

HERITAGE DAYS

July. Visit Alliance for sidewalk sales, a carnival and parade downtown.. (308) 762-1520.

AUTUMN IN ALLIANCE

September. A fall celebration with bounce houses, live music, vendors and dancing. 308-792-5400.

DOBBY’S FALL FESTIVAL

September. Fall Festival at Dobby’s Frontier Town with live entertainment, vendors and so much more (308) 762-4321.

rest of the year 1-5 p.m. or by appointment. (308) 645-2396. Don't miss the bronze sculptures of two girls by artist Linda Egle. Yellow Calf Studio shows and sells sculptures by appointment. (308) 645-2537.

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 the 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. 76

Highway 2, also known as the Sandhills Journey National 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.

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 on a first-come, first-served basis. 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.

From Cheyenne

Alliance central park Fountain

Pine Ridge Sandhills & Scenic Rivers Trails West Wild West

ArthurWest 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?

Thomas County 2023 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.

1st

Alliance

Econo Lodge, 1419 W. 3rd St., Alliance www.choicehotels.com/nebraska/alliance 308-762-8300 39 Breakfast, pet friendly 54-80

Holiday Inn Express, 1630 Holsten Dr., Alliance www.ihg.com/holidayinnexpress/hotels/us/en/alliance 308-761-0970 71

Quality Inn, 1420 W. 3rd St., Alliance www.choicehotels.com/nebraska/alliance 308-762-7600 60

Free Wifi, Breakfast, Pool and Whirlpool, Accessible, Laundry, Business Center, Pet Friendly 82-117

Free Wifi, Breakfast, Pool and Whirlpool, Accessible, Laundry, Business Center 93-130

Rainbow Motel, 614 W. 3rd St., Alliance 308-762-4980 13 Call for Amenities Call for Rates

Sunset

Redwood Inn at Halsey 503 NE Hwy 2 Halsey, NE 69142 www.facebook.com/RedwoodInnHalsey

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

CAMPGROUNDS PHONE OPEN AMENITIES FEES

Belle's Bunkhouse and Campground

202 Main St., Halsey, Adjacent to Hwy 2, cabin adjacent to campground

Bessey Recreation Complex

National Forest, 2 mi. W., Halsey https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/nebraska

308-539-1462 Year Round

RV Amenities: electricity, water, sewer, room for 9 trailers. Camping: available. Cabin Rental: 1 (2 night minimum, 75+)

•

Canoes, kayaks, tubes… AND CATTLE TANKS.

Sure, there are a million ways to get down a river. It just so happens that out here we use cattle tanks. It may not be the most conventional choice, but that’s what makes it genius. That, and the fact that they have room for everyone and a giant cooler.

A leisurely mosey down the river; paddling optional.

That’s why float trips down the Platte River with Dusty Trails get Buffalo Bill’s Buffalo of Approval.