SCENIC BYWAYS Bison 1 2 3 4 Crawford 385 20 brar a Nio r Rive 61 5 97 BRIDGES TO BUTTES SCENIC BYWAY Miles 197 Mi. The Route US 20 between Valentine and the Wyoming border From the high bridges of Valentine to the high plains near the Wyoming border, this 197-mile route takes you through rolling Sandhills in the east, wild prairies in the northern panhandle and pine-studded buttes on the western edge. 5 GEMS WORTH A STOP 1. Down a long gravel road, you’ll find the fascinating Toadstool Geologic Park. These unusual rock formations jut into the blue skies with grasslands all around. 2. Buffalo and longhorn herds can be found wandering Fort Robinson State Park, west of Crawford. The park is made up of more than 22,000 acres of Pine Ridge scenery, Old West history, fun activities and scenic camping. 3. Agate Fossil Beds is an internationally recognized fossil site. 4. Bowring Ranch State Historical Park is a great place to get a glimpse into ranch life in Nebraska. The Eve Bowring Visitor Center interprets ranching, homesteading and many other topics related to the Sandhills region and the Bowring family. 5. Merritt Reservoir State Recreation Area features 3,000 acres of sparkling water, with boaters enjoying the fishing and water skiing during the summer months. Small-Town Stop: CRAWFORD Known as the “Big Game Capital of Nebraska,” Crawford sits in the Pine Ridge area, which is full of trails for hiking and biking, as well as hunting grounds for bighorn sheep and elk. DO – Hudson-Meng Research and Education Center is a modern archeology excavation in progress. SHOP – Pine Needle Quilts is your one-stop shop for all your quilting needs. EAT – Staabs Drive Inn is an old-school hamburger stand worth a stop. STAY – High Plains Homestead’s bunkhouse-style accommodations sleep up to six. VisitNebraska.com 47
Nebraska Official State Travel Guide 2018 Nebraska Official State Travel Guide: Page 47
