Bellevue, NE
The Nature and History Trail is a 1.3 mile natural surface trail that meanders along the Missouri River, a wetland, and Peter Sarpy Trading Post, an archeologic site. Through the interpretive master planning process, the planning team determined that the trail should appeal to families taking a break from games at the ball diamonds, campers of all ages, birders, boaters, bicyclists and people attending special events. Attractions should be spaced throughout, to encourage visitors to walk the entire trail. Wayside exhibits interpreting the specific site and public art would be incorporated into the experience. Also, since the park was located in the floodplain, improvements could not be a barrier to floodwaters and must be able to endure occasional flooding.
The interpretive stories are conveyed through three tile mosaic plazas, a wetland boardwalk and overlook deck and 15 wayside exhibits. Stories focus on river history, birds, the trading post, and the wonder of wetlands.
