Toadstool Geologic Park
One of the must-see natural attractions in Nebraska's northwest corner is Toadstool Geologic Park. The park is located in a remote area of the state's extreme northwest corner and is known for its unique geologic formations. Dirt roads dominate the 19-mile drive from Crawford, Nebraska, to Toadstool; it’s an off-the-beaten-path experience that is well worth it. The badlands-like scenery, made from banded layers of volcanic ash and sediments created by flooding, is a surreal vision.
It is a must-see attraction for visitors to the state because of the stunning rock formations and unusual examples of the effects of water and wind over millions of years. Hiking the Interpretive Toadstool Trail, a well-marked one-mile loop, is the best way to experience it.
Here, paleontologists study forms and fossils from millions of years ago. Visitors can join a fascinating guided walking tour or explore on their own on a 1-mile loop trail. Aside from the otherworldly scenery, there are numerous prehistoric fossils and a 30-million-year-old stone trackway of migratory bird and animal tracks. It is illegal to remove fossils.
Camping and picnicking are also popular activities in the park. While the view near the campsites and interpretive signs is impressive, it isn't nearly as breathtaking as what you'd see on the hike, which takes just over an hour if you stop frequently to take in the breathtaking scenery. A detailed trail brochure explaining the numbered post markers along the way is available at the Trail Site.
- Best Time To Visit: Nighttime
- Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/nebraska/recreation/recarea/?recid=10616
- Admission: $3/vehicle/day use. $15/ vehicle/night camping
- Tripadvisor Rating: 4.5/5
- Location: Harrison, Nebraska
