Bead Mountain Ranch
Bead Mountain Ranch is located 12 miles southeast of Gering, Nebraska lying on the South side off
County Road (CR) W East of Hwy 71. There is one large parking area for public access located at the
intersection of CR W and CR 24. This parking area is located at the east end of the Ranch where CR 24 turns to the north. Also, there is a small parking area west of the intersection of CR 22 and CR W that is primarily used for seasonal hunting on the Ranch’s CRP and farm ground. The Ranch consists of 3000 acres having a mix of irrigated farm ground, CRP, native range land and rugged escarpments. The Ranch has approximately two miles of Wildcat Hills north facing slopes looking down to the North Platte Valley communities. Bead Mountain, for which the Ranch was named, is the farthest East butte that stands alone. Climbing to the top is an unforgettable scenic view overlooking historical Chimney Rock to the east and the North Platte Valley to the north. Bead Mountain was also known as a burial ground for Native Americans. The deep canyons on the Ranch have three active springs that are important in sustaining certain wildlife species year-round. Ponderosa Pine, Red Cedar and Rocky Mountain Juniper cover the escarpments and canyons along with skunkbush, sumac, golden currant, chokecherries, and mount mahogany on the side slopes. The local Audubon Chapter has documented over 120 species of resident and migrating birds that annually visit the Ranch. Flocks of Mountain Bluebirds are highly visible from early spring to late fall. Wild grape vines climb century old cottonwood and boxelder trees in the canyons and spring areas. Some of the wildlife species include mule and white-tail deer, elk, big horn sheep, bob cat, mountain lions and even an occasional moose have been seen. Also, there are wild turkey, a few pheasants, sharp tail grouse and a variety of other birds and animals.
