Mile 1106- Courthouse, Jail, and Chimney Rocks

There were three prominent geographical landmarks that Robert Campbell’s expedition could have referred to. Chimney Rock, Courthouse Rock, and Jail Rock were all within 20 miles of each other. Robert’s party would have first seen Courthouse and Jail Rock, which are situated next to each other. Chimney Rock was about 20 miles further up the Platte. All three of these landmarks were later used by pioneers on the Oregon trail to orient themselves. Some were noted to have strayed off the trail just to get a better view of the beautiful rock formations. Both Courthouse and Jail Rocks rise more that 400 feet from the North Platte Valley. Chimney Rock, further west was also used as a landmark by pioneers and has a very prominent peak that gives the formation its name. This peak rises 300 feet above the valley below.



circa 1897