The always-popular Eugene T. Mahoney State Park covers 700 acres along the beautiful Platte River. The modern park is open year-round and has something for everyone to enjoy. The park recently underwent some major upgrades, including adding and enhancing park attractions. But there’s one part of the park that doesn’t need upgrading: the incredible views from the top of the 70-foot-tall Walter Scott, Jr. Observation Tower.

There are tons of ways to enjoy this world-class park, but just let those wait for a while until after you experience the park's simplest pleasure.
Eugene T. Mahoney State Park/Google Images
You'll begin the tower hike at Peter Kiewit Lodge on the east side of the park.
Eugene T. Mahoney State Park/Facebook
The loop trail is 2.1 miles long and meanders through some truly breathtaking scenery, complete with river views. Parts of the trail are paved and some are pretty rough. Be sure to wear appropriate footwear!
Eugene T. Mahoney State Park/Facebook

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A little more than halfway through the trail, you'll come across the Walter Scott, Jr. Observation Tower. Climbing this huge 70-foot-tall tower isn't a feat that's fit for everyone, but if you can make the climb, you'll be richly rewarded.
Dale Winchester/Google Images
The views from the top of the tower are some of the best in the state. From this vantage point, you can see the Platte River twinkling below, sandwiched between the green riverbanks.
Quinn Clark
If you time your visit right, you may even be able to catch the sunset from atop the tower. You won't find a better place to watch the sun sink down below the horizon.
Troy Becker/Google Images
After you come back down from the tower, you can continue on the tower path to get back to your car at the lodge.
Boogs Rocks/Google Images
If you just want the tower experience without the hike, there is a parking area just a few steps from the base of the tower.

Have you visited Eugene T. Mahoney State Park to climb the observation tower? Did you check out any of the other awesome activities in the park? Tell us all about it in the comments!

Thinking about taking a drive through the Nebraska countryside? Be sure to check out this unique roadside rest stop on a rural highway in northwestern Nebraska!

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Eugene T. Mahoney State Park, 28500 W Park Hwy, Ashland, NE 68003, USA