Chadron is a college town with access to the outdoors
Once a fur trading hub in the mid-19th century, the college town of Chadron is known today for its natural beauty and welcoming atmosphere. “Most people think Nebraska is flat, but here we have buttes, bluffs and rolling hills,” says Gabrielle Kreis, executive director of Chadron Chamber of Commerce, who has lived in the area for almost a decade. Its rural location in the Pine Ridge region offers residents abundant ways to spend time outdoors, and Chadron State College adds to the area’s local flavor. “We have a great community and really good people here,” Kreis says. “I’ve lived in many different places, but Chadron is a hidden gem.”
From local parks and public land to Chadron State Park
Much of the area’s recreation caters to its natural surroundings. “We have a massive amount of public land that people enjoy hunting on, and there are a few different ponds and streams that you can fish on,” Kreis says. Chadron State Park, 9 miles south, is Nebraska’s oldest state park. Hiking trails wind through its ponderosa pine forests and provide sweeping views of Chadron Formation’s rocky buttes. “It’s absolutely gorgeous and untouched," Kreis says. "You can hike there and not run into a single person,” Kreis says. Various activities are also available, including archery and horseback riding. Wilson Park is one of several community green spaces, with a playground, gazebo and open space for picnics. Museum of the Fur Trade features thousands of artifacts that detail the region's indigenous history and Chadron's early involvement in the fur trade industry.
Bungalows and ranch-style homes fill the area
Most houses in Chadron are bungalows or ranch-style homes, with build dates stretching from the early 1900s into the 21st century. These sit close together on grid-like streets, which feature back alleyways that lead to detached garages. Mature oak trees line the streets, providing shade for sidewalks running throughout the community. “For the most part, it’s pretty affordable for homes and property here,” Kreis says. Chadron’s median sales price is $260,000, which falls below the state’s average.
Chadron Senior High School partners with Chadron State College
Chadron Public Schools serves students across the community. Niche gives the district an A-minus and ranks it among the state's top 10 best school districts. Chadron Senior High School offers dual enrollment courses in partnership with Chadron State College. “The college has some of the most affordable undergraduate and graduate programs in the state,” Kreis says. “Many of the international students stay with families off campus, so they get immersed in our culture, and we get to learn about theirs.”
Annual festivities and college events bring neighbors together
Residents gather for Fur Trade Days in early July. The annual staple hosts carnival rides, live music, a vendor market and other festivities at different venues across the community. Chadron State College hosts several events for locals to explore, like its International Food Tasting Party in late March. “Students get to cook a meal they love from home and serve it,” Kreis says. “It’s a great opportunity to spend 20 bucks and taste food from around the world.”
Coffee, comfort food and groceries are within reach
Locally owned businesses sit within vintage storefronts in downtown Chadron. The Ridge is a rustic, western-themed bar that pairs draft beer with homestyle American fare. Just Love Coffee Café is a popular study spot among college students, offering coffee all day and all-you-can-eat waffles every night. Groceries are available at Safeway, and shopping centers on the community’s west side include Walmart Supercenter and Bomgaars.
Getting around on U.S. routes 20 and 385
U.S. Route 20 is the area’s main east-west thoroughfare. U.S. Route 385 is also accessible from within the community, linking residents to Hot Springs, some 55 miles north. The latter is home to Box Butte General Hospital. Chadron Municipal Airport is closer to home, with commercial flights to Denver International Airport.
Written By
Matthew Simmons
