California Trail - Chimney Rock

A Beacon of Hope

Chimney Rock, located in the badlands of western Nebraska, is one of the most famous symbols of the old west. The rock itself is a towering geologic formation that looks like a hill that has a chimney. It towers some 300 feet above the North Platte River valley and lies at an elevation of 4,226 feet. Chimney Rock was an important landmark for travelers on the Oregon, California and Mormon Trails. Today, it stands forever as a symbol of the great westward migration of the 1800's, as part of Chimney Rock National Historic Site. It is estimated that over 500,000 travelers passed the rock on their way to destinations in the west. Today, Chimney Rock is commemorated forever on the back of the Nebraska state quarter.

Next Stop: Fort Laramie