OUTDOORS SEASONAL ADVENTURES No matter what season, no matter what corner of the state, there’s a little piece of paradise waiting for all types of outdoor enthusiasts in Nebraska, and each season brings new adventures. SPRING MIGRATION In the springtime, 80% of the world’s sandhill crane population can be found in Nebraska, and a 70-mile stretch of the Platte River hosts more than 600,000 of them. Learn about their migration and see massive flocks at Crane Trust Nature & Visitor Center or the Iain Nicolson Audubon Center at Rowe Sanctuary, where they stop to rest and feed on their migratory journey. The cranes aren’t the only birds migrating. The American White Pelican Migration is a sight to be seen at Harlan County Reservoir, as are the waterfowl that stop for a rest and recharge at Ponca State Park along their route. While the Prairie Chickens don’t migrate, they do a fantastic dance during mating season. These birds are elusive, so book a tour in McCook or with Calamus Outfitters for your best chance to catch their dance. SUMMER FUN Summer unleashes camping and boating season at the state’s many recreation areas. Three popular spots for water sports or just dropping anchor to cast a reel are Johnson Lake State Recreation Area, Branched Oak State Recreation Area and Calamus Reservoir State Recreation Area. Here, camping during the summer means warm days and perfectly cool evenings. At Lake McConaughy, there’s primative tent camping to RV camping to cabins and condos—it doesn’t matter where you stay, as long as there’s a view of the majestic lake. Chadron State Park, Two Rivers State Recreation Area and Stagecoach State Recreation Area offer peaceful spots to set up a tent, and be sure to wander out at night to check out the biggest and most starry night you’ve ever seen. FALL HARVEST Picking your own fruit can be a rewarding experience. Gatherers will find their adventures fruitful at Kimmel Orchard in Nebraska City, Union Orchard in Union or Vala’s Pumpkin Patch in Gretna. Fall is open season, and hunters who drew an elk tag should head to Ash Creek U.S. Forest Lands. Mule deer are often found in the Pine Ridge region, duck hunting is popular along the North and South Platte Rivers, and goose and turkey hunters can find their prizes statewide. In celebration of the harvest, Nebraska City hosts the Apple Jack Festival each September. German heritage is celebrated at the German-American Society Oktoberfest in Omaha mid-September, and Hemingford hosts its annual Harvest Moon Fall Festival with a barbecue cook-off and beer garden. WINTER WONDERLAND When the mercury drops, the people of Fremont head to Clemmons Sled Hill. This sledding hill is unlike others you’ve experienced; it has a snow gun and snow-making abilities! In Lincoln, try your skills at ice skating at The Railyard Ice Rink, surrounded by shops and restaurants that offer a nice warm-up from the winter nights. For a workout, head to the winter wonderland of Schramm Park State Recreation Area, where you can cross-county ski along the Platte River and through the peaceful wilderness. Rental skis and other gear can be rented at the University of Nebraska Outdoor Adventure Center in Lincoln. When winter is at its coldest and the lakes are frozen solid, try one of the local favorite pastimes, ice fishing, at Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge. VisitNebraska.com 37
Nebraska Official State Travel Guide 2018 Nebraska Official State Travel Guide: Page 37
