Exploring Nebraska

I remember hearing my Dad talk about 38-cent gasoline or something like that. Thinking about filling up these days for a cross country trip gives me the shakes. I know some day I'll be telling my kids about the 89-cent gas I remember from high school.

The price at the pump is pretty discouraging these days and a lot of people are adjusting their summer vacation plans. It kind of defeats the purpose of taking a relaxing vacation if you're just going to worry about the price of gas during your trip.

While a road trip to Disney World, the Great Lakes or the gulf coast may not be feasible for many, there are other options for family fun locally. Fortunately for us in Central Nebraska we've got fun an entertaining attractions and events all within a short driving distance.

There are quite a few reservoirs within a few hours of Grand Island and you won't have to take out a second mortgage to buy enough gas to get you there. Calamus, Sherman, Johnson, Davis Creek and Harlan reservoirs are great places for family fun.

Fishing, hiking, birding, water skiing and just relaxing are only some of the things to do at these places. You can do a day trip or bring the camping supplies and have a longer getaway. These lakes are known for excellent fishing and some have nice sandy beaches that are perfect for fun in the sun.

Don't forget canoeing and kayaking our many rivers and lakes. And if you want to really have a good time with friends float down the river in a livestock tank. Several outfitters now cater to this popular diversion. This can all be combined with camping and fishing trips too.

Central Nebraska has some really unique attractions that bring in visitors from all over. Locals often overlook these places but there's no good reason to do so, we've got world class attractions right here!

 Audubon's Rowe Sanctuary south of Gibbon is known for sandhill cranes in spring. A lot of people don't realize the place is open year round. Their unique straw bale visitor center is an attraction of its own, not to mention the extensive network of nature trails to be explored. Experts are on hand for birding as well as for advice on where to go to see other things.

 The Sandhills Journey Scenic Byway starts at Grand Island on its east end and extends all the way to Alliance. This stretch of Highway 2 is particularly scenic along a lot of its length and many quality attractions await the eager traveler. I recommend stopping in Broken Bow at Emily's Soda Fountain and then exploring the National Forest near Halsey. And there is so much more to see.

The Chalk Mine near Scotia is an attraction that cannot be found elsewhere. Travel the Loup Rivers Scenic Byway (HWY 11) through the rolling hills of the Loup River Valley to this unique geologic formation. More adventurous folks can climb to the top of Happy Jack Peak on a twisting trail of railroad tie steps and witness the breath taking view from the summit. From the top you can see why in the late 1800s the point was used as an observation area from which to watch for bands of "hostile Indians”.

History, outdoor fun and adventure abound in Nebraska. There's no need to travel across the country to have fun with family and friends.

Check out Nebraska. I know you'll find things that you never knew existed.

For more information contact:



www.sandhillsjourney.com

www.calamusoutfitters.com

www.byways.org

www.rowesanctuary.org


Alan J. Bartels writes an outdoor column for The Independent.