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I must admit, I have been missing out for far too long on The Cornhusker State. In this post, I want to share my first experience in the Nebraska Panhandle and my visit to Scotts Bluff National Monument.
The Basics
Website: https://www.nps.gov/scbl/index.htm
What: Scotts Bluff National Monument
Where: 190276 Old Oregon Trail, Gering, NE 69341
When to visit: Just like most of the United States, the weather is a bit unpredictable in Western Nebraska. I visited in Mid-June and it was a cool 55 degrees Fahrenheit, however, two days later the forecast was calling for 90 degrees. I recommend visiting during the summer months to ensure you have access to Scotts Bluff Summit Road (Hours may vary).
Hours of Operation: Sunrise to Sunset. The visitor center is open from 8 am-6 pm MST.
Weather: The weather can change very quickly at Scotts Bluff National Monument, it can be a perfect blue-sky, sunny day and then suddenly thunderstorms roll in and change the landscape dramatically. Be sure to plan for the weather before you visit and check with the visitor center to inquire about the weather during your visit to Scotts Bluff National Monument.
Eagle Rock at Scotts Bluff National Monument
Three Can’t-Miss Things at Scotts Bluff National Monument
The Visitors Center and the Introductory Film:
The United States National Park Service has done a phenomenal job in recent years with its video productions. A stop inside the visitors center while at Scotts Bluff is a must and be sure to check out the video about how Scotts Bluff got its name and this landmark location along the Mormon, Oregon, California, and Pony Express Trails.
A walk alongside the Oregon Trail Pathway:
Have you ever wanted to journey down the Oregon Trail? I know just the spot for you! While at Scotts Bluff National Monument, visit the Oregon Trail Pathway. In some areas of the pathway, you can still see the wagon ruts from the Oregon Trail! On some days and times, you can find interpreters dressed in traditional attire and learn more about what the travelers would have encountered while passing by Scotts Bluff and going through Mitchell Pass.
Oregon Trail Pathway with Oxen-led Wagon
A trip up the Summit Road:
Fun Fact, the Summit Road features the only road tunnels in the state of Nebraska. The views all along the route are top-notch and the drive is worth it for the commanding views of the surrounding area from the top! Be sure to check at either the welcome station or the visitor center for the operating hours of the Summit road during your visit as they are subject to change.
Views from The Summit Road
Final Notes and Gear Section
A visit to Scotts Bluff National Monument is highly encouraged. It is a destination off the radar, but not far at all from the main highway. It is a place that had a significant impact on travelers on the Mormon, California, and Oregon Trails. When those settlers first saw Scotts Bluff on the horizon, it was as if the West was saying hello to all of them. Scotts Bluff has the same ability to capture the adventurous types out there and wow everyone with its impressive beauty. While visiting the park, a pair of great hiking shoes/boots is a must. My personal favorites right now are the Moab Speed Mid GTX . These boots are great Spring, Summer, and Fall boots that also are made to go through small creeks and streams. Also, make sure to have some great socks with those hiking boots, I love the Darn Tough Merino Wool Socks. A final note is, always be observant and watch your step as rattlesnakes are present in the area!
Watch out for Rattlesnakes!