BRIDGES TO BUTTES SCENIC BYWAY From the high bridges of Valentine to the high plains near the Wyoming border, this route takes you through rolling Sandhills in the east, wild prairies in the northern panhandle and two natural wonders in the west: Toadstool Geologic Park and Agate Fossil Beds National Monument. SMALL-TOWN STOP MERRITT RESERVOIR STATE RECREATION AREA, VALENTINE CRAWFORD Known as the “Big Game Capital of Nebraska,” Crawford sits in the Pine Ridge area, full of trails for hiking and biking, as well as hunting grounds for bighorn sheep and elk. DO Visit a modern archaeological excavation site at Hudson-Meng Education and Research Center in Crawford, the site of the largest extinct bison bone bed in the world. DO Play a round at Legend Buttes Golf Course , one of Nebraska’s most scenic courses. EAT In season, hit Staabs Drive Inn , an old-school hamburger stand with thick malts. STAY Stargazing, hiking and many more outdoor experiences await you in the foothills of the Pine Ridge when you stay at Our Heritage Guest Ranch . 4 GEMS WORTH A STOP 1. Stay overnight in the historic Harrison House Hotel in Harrison, built in 1886 by the Chicago Northwestern Railroad. With vintage details and period charm, this independently owned bed-and-breakfast gives guests a cozy yesteryear vibe. 2. Housed in Gordon’s oldest structure and featuring gems from hand-sewn quilts and clothing to Native American art and artifacts, the Scamahorn Museum offers a glimpse into the life of the area’s early settlers. 3. At Cottonwood Lake State Recreation Area in Merriman, explore 180 acres of Sandhills scenery surrounding a 60-acre lake. The park is a perfect place to get away from it all with boating, fishing, bird watching and more. 4. Enjoy 3,000 acres of sparkling water in the midst of the Sandhills at Merritt Reservoir State Recreation Area near Valentine. The area is open year-round, though summer is most popular for boating, fishing, watersports and dark skies. Miles 197 The Route U.S. 20 between the Wyoming border and Valentine HUDSON-MENG EDUCATION AND RESEARCH CENTER, CRAWFORD Fossils 1 Crawford 385 20 2 brar a Nio r Rive 3 1 4 97 61 4 40 Find out more at VisitNebraska.com
Nebraska Official State Travel Guide The Official 2021 Not-At-All What You Thought State Travel Guide: Page 40
