Windlass Hill

Ben Larson

2023-05

This is a really neat spot off the beaten path. It's a steep walk to the top of the hill but there's a paved path and the views at the top are worth it. I also enjoyed learning about the Oregon Trail travelers that passed through this area.

Bree J

2023-05

I see they had a cover over the kiosk wagon. When I went this place was deserted. I hiked the very steep trail thinking I would see the wagon wheel prints but only found trail markers. I wish there was a trail sign that told mileage and difficulty level for visitors. I am an avid hiker but the average person or people with kids or disabilities will not be able to hike that trail. After hiking I did see the small sign at the beginning of trail (to the right) that said wagon wheel trail marks but again I had to look closely around to figure out where they were. Nice history lesson but for after hours that place needs to help visitors find their way around and not have them waste time looking around to figure out whats what. Otherwise nice place to visit.P.S. there is no visitor center at this location only a informational kiosk and parking lot.

Soghomon

2023-05

Quite an experience to set foot on this ancient ground where battles between the Lakota and Pawnee once took place. Later an important resting place for wearied travels hoping to reach the promised land of Oregon, today the visitor can enjoy the 1000 acre park by car or by foot.

Kent Rasmussen

2023-08

Wonderful 1/2 mile trail (in and out) overlooking the Sandhills with a fantastic vistas.

Tori Lynn

2019-05

A very scenic and historical park, however I think some clearer trail marking in the beginning would be nice, when we arrived it looked like it was only the hollowed-out wagon piece, and we almost left before noticing the trail. It's a bit of a hike, but at the top of the hill it's beautiful, and you can see the tracks that made by those who took the Oregon trail so long ago. I loved it.A great stop- if you're up for the walk. Not an enjoyable quick stop.

C M Roth

2021-05

Beautiful place. We hiked the path that takes you up to the top of a mountain where you can still see the wagon wheel tracks (ruts) in the ground from when the settlers were heading west along the Oregon trail. We also stopped to see the old school house and cave.

She M

2022-05

Visited Ash Hollow State Historical Park one week ago. Beautiful, historic park. To see the Oregon trail ruts, you need to go down the road about a mile to the Windlass Hill pull out. Look up the hill and you can see the ruts, and/or walk the trail.The Visitor Center's orientation film is very informative. Loved the museum, with fossils, Oregon trail and Native American histories. Ash Hollow is also the site of the Battle of Blue Water Creek, aka Harney's Massacre, the first Sioux War.The Visitor Center guide, Winston Corfield, was very helpful answering our questions and recommending sites to see. Our visit was especially rewarding because of his friendliness and enthusiasm.

William Orr

2022-05

Was it great? Yes.Interesting history? Yes.Beautiful scenery? Yes!Was there some puffery in the website description? Yes.Not sure if actually saw the ruts or not.The "cave" is not acually a cave.

Todd Buell

2022-05

Cement trail to the top what can you do at 26 degrees grade. Take a break in the middle it's a steep climb but it's worth it the view is awesome

Shari Scudder

2019-05

We had the park to ourselves when we took a pre blizzard day trip to Ash Hollow SHP. Keep in mind there are 2 sections of the park a couple of miles apart. From the parking lot of Windlass Hill make sure you look up the hill to see at least 2 different heavily rutted/damaged paths that the wagons used. Fabulous park.

Chad Kirkland

2024-04

Great place of Historic significance.Actual wagon ruts are visible on the Oregon Trail.

Wyatt Smith

2023-09

This is a short 1/2 mile trail that is made from cement that brings you up along a hill to overlook the Sandhills. Parts of the walk may be steep but it is well worth the views at the top. I haven't been able to make it here for a sunset or sunrise but I would imagine it would be the perfect spot for it.The signs give some history of the area and the major effect the wagons had on the erosion of the hill down one stretch. If you're this close Ash Hollow and since you should have already paid the day pass it's a worthy trip to go 3 miles north.Picnic area: There are some benches and picnic tables near the top of the hill.

Chris

2023-07

An important early milestone on the Oregon Trail. The walk to the stop is steep, but is paved. Interesting to see the permanent effects the Trail had on the train.To help orient you: the Trail came over and down the hill toward the highway. Then it crossed the highest and went to Ash Hollow, which is about 2 miles west.Playground: No playground - not for kidsRestrooms: No restroomsPicnic area: No picnic area

Andy Jacobs

2021-05

Ash Hollow is a fun little park. I can see why years ago people would have settled in a place like this.

Elijah Lynch

2022-05

Hidden gem of the Sandhills. Both sides are worth your time. Windlass Hill is history in a bottle, the grooves still etched into the landscape. The other side has one of the best skylines in the region.

L L

2023-05

I loved this place. The visitors center was very informative and I was able to watch a 15 minute film about the history before walking through the museum. The grounds are beautiful with amazing views of the prairie. I went in the early summer and was able to see thousands of puffs from the cottonwood trees floating on the breeze. The smell of the cedar trees, the calm quiet and the cool history made for a great stop while passing through the area. I went up the road a short distance and saw the ruts made from the Oregon Train wagons which was so cool to see. Just be aware that snakes are in the area. I didn’t see any rattlesnakes but did startle a blue racer. Definitely worth the trip

Jeff Server

2023-05

Nice view from the top, pretty steep trail though.

Denise Cornelius

2023-10

Interesting. When we were there about 12 or 13 years ago we could still see where wagons went. It wasn't as noticeable this time but that could be due to time of year or something. Always interesting seeing parts of history. Sad the little settlement house in bad shape.

Jim Conley

2021-05

Its historical. Its beautiful. My kind of place! Peace

Lisa Rittenhouse

2022-05

Beautiful place to hike. We try and go once a year.

Faigi Derman

2022-05

We loved the lady who helped us..we had a great time chatting and felt like we were with an old friend! I feel terrible that I cant remember her name. Beyond that, the visitor's center/museum was beautifully set up with detailed, intriguing and very informative exhibits. We all enjoyed it immensely from adults to children and only wish we could have stayed longer. We also "hiked" the Windlass hill which was great as we were on a long car ride and it gave us a chance to experience the area as well as stretch our legs. It is a steep climb but all paved. My 7 year old was able to do it just fine. It is a beautiful view at the top and fascinating if you are into the Oregon Trail.

Travis Handy

2023-05

Lots of history and a beautiful hike. Trail is totally paved with additional rest spot along the way. Very well taken care of. Perfect morning hike or just to stretch the legs if you are on a drive.

Isaac Archuleta

2022-05

Such a beautiful place with great history! Worth a visit for sure!

Andrew Yeager

2023-05

One of the most beautiful places I have ever seen! Everyone in the country should visit Ash Hollow State Park at least once if they are able to financially and can fit it into their vacation time or schedule. The view from standing on top of Windlass Hill is breathtaking, you can see for miles and miles in every direction. It is very peaceful and often the only noise you hear is the wind blowing. In the distance you can see a white Christian cross.I often come here to have a Bible study and to pray to God, thanking Him for everything He has given me and to ask Him to watch over me and give me guidence.

Brandy Allain

2023-09

Beautiful site! Not a hike for all abilities, but not a hard hike to the top. Worth it!

Kaylin Mae

2018-05

Ash Hollow is one of my Favorite historical parks. It is so beautiful and fun. I cannot wait to go back there. I have been three different times and it is so relaxing. Such a cool place to stop. I totally recommend going if you ever have the chance.

Chad Zichterman

2023-08

Omg beautiful. I love history

Michael Reed

2020-05

Very beautiful with great hiking and lots of good information.

Briana DeSanctis

2023-05

Steep little hike to the top.

malcolm bathke

2021-05

This is about a .6 mile hike up the hill and you are rewarded with a beautiful view of the area. The signs about the Oregon trail are informative too.