Chimney Rock National Monument is a prominent sandstone rock formation located in the Morrill County, of western Nebraska, United States, along the banks of the North Platte River, approximately 20 miles southeast of Bayard and 5 miles south of the intersection with U.S. Route 26 and Nebraska Highway 71. The rock has been a significant landmark for Native American tribes and pioneer travelers for centuries, earning its name due to its striking resemblance to a chimney.

Chimney Rock is more conically-shaped than its broader base, which is composed of Brule clay and Gering Gravel Member, standing about 300 feet tall, inclusive of the base. The rock consists of three distinct rock units. The outer layer of clay at the base provides little support for preventing the rock from crumbling and wear due to natural erosion processes over thousands of years. However, significant efforts have been made to preserve and protect this historical landmark.

The creation of Chimney Rock was part of the natural process associated with the high-energy geological forces during the Oligocene age. The high-water levels of the North Platte River and adjacent lakes could have influenced its structure thousands of years ago. Additionally, erosion enhanced the tower's form. Its colors are influenced by a combination of pink and red argillite which the weather removes at different rates.

Chimney Rock played a crucial role in the westward trek of the Oregon Trail, acting as a primary reference point for travelers, overlanders, authors, and photographers, marking their successful penetration into the heart of America's western territories. Robert Stuart was the first recorded explorer to view the rock in 1812. This vast travel through Nebraska allowed him to see significant formations and eventually encouraged more people to travel through in favor of the Rock.

The park of Chimney Rock National Monument contains not only Chimney Rock but the entire surrounding region. There are also interpretative signs close to the different rock areas and remnants from the pioneer time to check in this park, illustrating how the location contributed to the American society for many centuries.

From the remnants of ancient plunketts to pieces of remains, evidence to both small animal inhabitants and Native America exist on this landmark from over one thousand years prior to the present.

At one point the trail that went to Chimney Rock and passed beneath supported more than 150000 individuals- visitors, those just taking in this major event included, among more. Most of these people also had to have their luggage brought on while journeying as pioneers to where many stayed during this certain time frame, creating an important impact socially for a brief window.