After our visit to Chimney Rock, we decided to try our luck and go to the North Platte River National Wildlife Refuge located near Lake Minatare. Located just 8 miles north of the town of Scottsbluff, the lake was formed by a decree by President Wilson to build a reservoir for irrigation for the farmlands. Big lake - 2,158 acres of water. The wildlife refuge was a lost cause to us - the boating and camping done right now chases every wild thing away. The ranger we talked to said that late fall and early spring are great times to be here to see the migration of the birds. Oh well.
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| Lake Minatare |
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| The lighthouse |
The ranger did tell us about the landmark of the park - a 55 foot tall lighthouse! Yep, the only one in Nebraska. No light at the top but we could climb up and see the 360 view of the lake and area. Lots of boaters and swimmers on the lake. Could hear country music blaring out of boats - was looking to see if any of them were rafted up together having a party out on the lake. Could also see that if we lived in this area, Lake Minatare would be part of our lives - the draw of the water is still there.
Since the day was still young, we drove back through Scottsbluff to just south of town and to the Wildcat Hills State Park. This park offers hiking trails, an interpretive center, primitive camping sites (not interested in that), educational and biological opportunities. The Saber Tooth tiger prowled these hills millions of years ago and archaeologists discovered the bone fragments of a tiger with its teeth embedded in a bone of another animal. The center is mainly used for day use and geared for children and classroom instruction. Breathtaking views from 5000 feet looking out towards Scott's Bluff.
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| Scott's Bluff in the distance |
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