Chimney Rock Nebraska

08/23/2021

Designated the Chimney Rock National Historic Site, Chimney Rock is one of the most famous and recognizable landmarks for pioneer travelers on the Oregon, California, and Mormon Trails, a symbol of the great western migration. Located approximately four miles south of present-day Bayard, at the south edge of the North Platte River Valley, Chimney Rock is a natural geologic formation, a remnant of the erosion of the bluffs at the edge of the North Platte Valley. A slender spire rises 325 feet from a conical base. The imposing formation, composed of layers of volcanic ash and brule clay dating back to the Oligocene Age (34 million to 23 million years ago), towers 480 feet above the North Platte River Valley.

It was hot when we visited the rock. Went to the visitors center, looked around, then went out back to take a few photos. I was wearing shorts and stepped off the concrete into the grass where it look a little wet. After a few moments my legs were covered with mosquitos. I got the heack out of there. We then drove to the Chimney Rock Cemetery and took a few more photos; better vantage point. Its a very neat place in history as it is part of the Oregon Trail.