Ash Hollow State Historic Park

Sweet spring water made Ash Hollow SHP near Lewellen a major stopover on the Overland Trail and prompted prehistoric Indians to use it, too. Ruts etched by west-bound wagons are visible on the bluffs at Windlass Hill. The history, archaeology and paleontology of the area are interpreted at the visitor center, Ash Hollow Cave and exhibits and structures.

In 1962, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission began acquisition of the 1,000-plus acres that now comprise the park. An interpretive center was built over the entrance of Ash Hollow Cave to protect its unique features. In 1978, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission opened the visitor center on the bluff overlooking the mouth of the canyon. A hiking trail from the visitor center provides access to the spring in the bottom of the canyon.

Also a part of the park, Windlass Hill is located on a separate tract 2 1/4 miles south on U.S. 26. Development there includes an interpretative shelter and informal signs. A walkway provides access to the crest of the hill to view the deep ruts carved by those thousands upon thousands of wagons that traveled the trail those many decades ago.

Attractions - Trails: Yes Hiking: 1 miles Picnicking: Yes Picnic Tables: 28 Grills: 5 Visitor Center: Yes View bones of prehistoric rhinoceros, mammoths, and mastodons Pioneer history displays Gift Shop Hours: Memorial Day-Labor Day Hours 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Office on Site: Yes Memorial Day-Labor Day Hours 8:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.

Recreation - A hiking trail from the visitor center provides access to the spring in the bottom of the canyon.A walkway provides access to the crest of the hill to view the deep ruts carved by those thousands upon thousands of wagons that traveled the trail those many decades ago.A hiking trail from the visitor center provides access to the spring in the bottom of the canyon.

Climate - Nebraska has a moderate climate with high humidity. The relative humidity in this state averages 70 percent throughout the year. Winter temperatures normally average between 20 and 45 degrees F. March brings warmer weather and temperatures above freezing for most of the month. Spring is in full swing by late April when temperatures often reach above 60 degrees F. Summer temperatures reach highs of 95 degrees F frequently, with warm weather continuing into mid September. Crisp fall weather truly begins in October when nighttime temperatures begin to dip into the low 40s. The wettest time of the year in this state is late spring through summer.

Location - Ash Hollow SHP is located 3 miles South East of Lewellen, Ne., or 28 miles North West of Ogallala, Ne. When leaving Ogallala, just take highway 26 straight to Ash Hollow.