Pine Butte sits in the shadow of it's larger neighbor to the east - Roundtop Peak. Because of the greater density of forest on Pine Butte, the view of the surrounding area is somewhat obscured, though not entirely. But, it is a fun and easy hike, which can easily be done in conjunction with a climb of Roundtop Peak.
To get to the Pine Butte access point, go north from Crawford, Nebraska on Highway 2 & 71. The Toadstool Road turnoff is just over 4 miles north, and is well-marked. It goes straight west for 2 miles, then sharply turns north-northwest. Six miles from the turn is the turnoff road for Husdon-Meng, and is shown on many maps as Sand Creek Road. That road is well-maintained and well-marked. Just past the junction with Milo Road, you will see on the right an old 2-track road marked 918. Follow that about 1/2 mile and you will be in the saddle between Roundtop Peak (east) and Pine Butte (west). That's a good place to park. It is also close to the Bison Trail that runs through Toadstool Geologic Park, if you would like more adventure for your day. |