On March 23, 2003 Funhog placed the Mandan Heron Letterbox in Sarpy
County, Omaha, Nebraska. Like all herons, this one chose to roost in a
tall tree, close to water. The walk to this box definitely lays to
rest the myth that Nebraska is flat. This hike may involve some
creative trailblazing. Since you will also encounter an active
railroad line along the way, this may not be the best place to bring
rambunctious kids or dogs.

To the trailhead: The entrance to Mandan Park is located at 13th and
Harrison close to the Bellevue city limits.

To the letterbox: Once inside the park, find the shelter with three
walls and a roof that provides no refuge in a storm. From this point
take the trail at 30 degrees magnetic to a grassy clearing. Find the
four non-conformists holding needles but cannot sew. From the smallest
of this quartet take the trail at 80 degrees. After walking through
walls of stone count 125 steps to the woodland strongbox. At this
point make a hairpin turn downhill, continuing along an eroded
streambank. Your goal is the railroad track down below. Walk southeast
along the tracks until you see eight oranges suspended in midair. With
one of these floating directly overhead, take a compass reading of 10
degrees to the tallest riverside tree, perfect for a heron rookery.