Long Pine is a unique and hidden treasure. This Sandhills community has earned the title “Beauty Spot of Nebraska” because of its closeness to Long Pine Creek, one of Nebraska’s finest trout streams. Many travelers have been surprised by how the Sandhills seem to crack to reveal a deep forested canyon and crystal clear stream.
The name came from the Lakota’s “Wazi-hon ska Wakpala”: Long Pine Creek. Early settlers like the Kincaiders, famous rustlers like Doc Middleton and Kid Wade, the railroaders, and lots of hardworking ordinary “folk” have woven their threads into the history of the area.
Long Pine was plated as a township in June 1881 by the railroad. After the arrival of the first train in October 1881, Long Pine quickly became established as a major railroad hub serving as a railroad division point and home to a “roundhouse” where engines were serviced. Passenger and freight trains arrived over the rails. Long Pine rapidly grew and was incorporated in 1884.
Long Pine has long served as an oasis. Since the 1870’s, vacationers have traveled here to enjoy the beauty, splash in the cool waters, fish for rainbow trout, tube down Long Pine Creek, or sit back and relax at Long Pine State Park or Hidden Paradise. Today, hikers and bikers cross over Long Pine Creek on the railroad bridge as part of the Cowboy Trail.