| NEBRASKA |
In this installment of Trails West Magazine, our journey leads us to Potter, Nebraska, where we’ll uncover the origins of a delectable delight – the Tin Roof Sundae. This frozen confection reshaped the nation’s dessert preferences during the latter half of the 20th century. But before our sweet adventure, our first stop is the captivating expanse of the Wildcat Hills, just south of Gering on Highway 71.
But first, we make our way from Gering, Nebraska, south to Wildcat Hills, an area rich in history, flora, and fauna. Then we have breakfast at Laura Lee’s Double L Country Store in Banner County, Nebraska, where the company is great, and the food is out of this world.
Then we’re on to Potter, Nebraska, where we dive into a Tin Roof Sundae and learn about its origins.
Stretching towards the horizon, the vast vistas of western Nebraska’s Wildcat Hills are unforgettable. Our expedition took us to this remarkable terrain managed by the Nebraska Game & Parks Commission. While not the largest park in the region, it boasts a distinctive vantage point overlooking the North Platte Valley. These hills and valleys host a network of hiking trails, inviting us to partake in this Western wonderland’s scenic beauty.
Distinguished by its unparalleled landscape, the Wildcat Hills unfold with a tapestry of rugged hills, profound canyons, and a thriving medley of flora and fauna. Encompassing portions of Scotts Bluff County and Banner County, this enchanting terrain stretches westward, extending its embrace into the neighboring state of Wyoming.
Nestled within the park’s embrace are a collection of picnic enclaves and shelters. Each of these havens boasts its own fire pit, accompanied by a conveniently situated restroom that lies within a stroll’s reach.
Our paths converged with those of Lilia Francasconay and Marta Nives, a dynamic duo hailing from Omaha, Nebraska.
Bound together by the threads of a road trip, they embarked on a voyage to explore the Nebraska panhandle, their very first encounter with this unique region and the Wildcat Hills.
Wildcat Hills are an inviting haven for those with an affinity for the outdoors. Its allure beckons hikers, campers, bird enthusiasts, and photographers alike. The region hosts various engagements, from leisurely birdwatching to invigorating hikes along the trails that intricately weave through the hills. These paths cater to various challenges, ensuring a gratifying experience for hikers of every inclination.
As we bid adieu to the Wildcat Hills and continue south on Highway 71, a short journey brings us to a renowned gem in Banner County — Double L Country Store and Cafe.
It’s just a few miles south of the Wildcat Hills, resting in the middle of the Great Plains.
Cherished by many, it’s a treasure that has made our list of must-visit locations in the Nebraska Panhandle.
Double L Country Store and Cafe, situated just off Highway 71, offers a delightful experience of farm-to-table fresh cuisine.
The restaurant offers various goods, all of which are farm-fresh.
You’ll find an array of items in their country store – from jewelry and jams to candies, snacks, and homemade pies; their selection covers everything from cows to chickens to horses. Almost anything farm-related.
They offer an extensive menu featuring a variety of steaks, hamburgers, fries, and breakfast options. They even serve fresh Buffalo.
We chatted with Laura Whelchel, the co-owner and head chef of the country store and cafe, to discover more about this one-of-a-kind and fantastic eatery.
After enjoying an excellent handmade breakfast and saying goodbye to our new friends, we headed to Potter, Nebraska on HWY 71. Our journey will take us around Kimball, NE, bypassing the small town and onto Interstate 85. It’s about 20 miles to the East. We didn’t film this part of the trip because our camera went a little nuts.
| To Potter, NE
Arriving in Potter, we found that Potter Days were taking place. Potter Days is an annual celebration that commemorates the town and its community. While specific details about the event may change from year to year, Potter Day typically includes various activities and festivities that showcase the town’s history, culture, and community spirit.
When we arrived, a car show was happening while vendors sold their goods, local bands played tunes, and a beer garden took up the entire park. Kids rode make-shift trains built of lawnmowers while enjoying the celebration and the sights and sounds of the small town event.
But, our mission was the Potter Sundry. Arriving inside the historic building, we were greeted by Missy, the owner of the Potter Sundry, where legend has it that the very first tin roof sundae was created.
This isn’t my first Tin Roof Sundae — okay—- It’s the first tin roof sundae I’ve ever had that was made in the location where it was created, but it won’t be the last.
The tin roof sundae reshaped the American frozen dairy treat and became all the rage in the late 20th century, and it all started right here with an analogy, a soda jerk, and a handful of peanuts.
The small town of Potter, Nebraska, is indicative of rural America; a slower pace of life, friends, and neighbors make it one of our favorite places to visit in the Nebraska Panhandle.
Thanks for watching, and be sure to join us next time on Trails West Magazine as we venture North to Mitchell, Nebraska, and then on to Torrington and Lingle, Wyoming.
Be sure to subscribe to our channel and check out our website at Trails West Mag dot Com for more information about the sights, sounds, and flavors of the American West.
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| SPECIAL THANKS
The Potter Sundry
Nebraska Parks
