Nyeri is a pleasingly arranged town in the Aberdare (Aberdare Range) foothills, with extensive green meadows and gardens. The foothills are covered by a dense eucalyptus forest and afford a magnificent view of Mount Kenya (Kenya, Mount) to the northeast. Much of the surrounding area is utilized for farming, and coffee and tea are important cash crops. The town's major industries include production of leather goods, soap, wood and furniture, processed food, soft drinks, cord, rope, twine, clay and concrete products, agricultural implements, and fabrics. Nyeri serves as the gateway to Aberdare National Park. The town is linked by road and rail with Nanyuki, about 36 miles (58 km) to the northeast, and Nairobi, about 60 miles (96 km) to the southwest. There is an airfield nearby. Pop. (1999) 98,908.