Photographer Ben Placzek takes us to the heart of the Sandhills for an afternoon with cowboys at work.

In Nebraska, white-tailed deer antler growth begins in the Spring. By early September, growth has ceased as bucks begin to rub their velvet-covered antlers on trees, shaping their newly created bones into fine points. The antlers are typically cast, or shed, between December and March. Hunters eagerly await the November firearm season, which begins November 15.

Anything we do outside stands out in our minds when cast against a white background. We marvel at how blue the sky looks after a fresh fallen snow, and how every species of wildlife walking the fringes of our lives seemingly stand out for all to see.

50 MPH Stagecoach (Held her at 50 most of the way) We drove 600 miles this way to Estes Park, making it in 16 hours in 1939 (& back). On top were 5 blanket rolls covered with heavy canvas which was tied with rope running to bumpers both “fore” and “aft.” On back was a platform that carried all of the grub, army cots, and cooking utensils. On the left running board – carried all the suitcases and any additional …

The following is an essay submitted to NEBRASKAland by freelance writer Michael P. Gutzmer of Lincoln. Having the opportunity to grow up going to a cabin on the Platte River can open your eyes to a whole new world of outdoor appreciation…more than anyone can imagine Someone once said the PlatteRiver was a wilderness treasure. Many of us with the opportunity to visit the Platte on a regular basis think it is priceless. During my childhood my father would often …

Photographer Mark Harris captured images from Fort Robinson State Park’s Post Playhouse for his article “A World-class Act,” as seen in the July 2014 issue of NEBRASKAland Magazine.

To all following the Cowboy Trail cycling tour with Regional Editor Jenny Nguyen, she will post a recap of her biking adventure with Outdoor Educator Jamie Bachmann and fellow cyclists who have joined them as they complete the entire 195 miles of the trail. Sore muscles aside, they are enjoying nice weather, lovely scenery and amazing Dutch oven cooking. They have also found wild asparagus and mushrooms, camped out along the trail and made some new friends on their way. Tomorrow …