Scotts Bluff National Monument Travel Guide

Discover the natural and cultural attractions, best hiking and biking trails, food and drink scene, accommodations, local culture, safety tips, transportation options, and neighboring destinations in this comprehensive guide to Scotts Bluff National Monument in Nebraska, United States.


Introduction to Scotts Bluff National Monument

Located in the Nebraska Panhandle of Great Plains, Scotts Bluff National Monument covers an area of 3,000 acres and is a renowned landmark of the country’s western migration. The monument comprises five rock formations, including Scotts Bluff, a towering cliff that rises 800 feet above the surrounding landscape. This national monument offers incredible natural beauty, rich cultural heritage and striking views of the prairies. Let’s explore more about this fascinating site.

List of Places to Visit in Scotts Bluff National Monument

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Oregon Trail Museum: Located at the visitor center, this museum offers a glimpse into the history of the Oregon, California, and Mormon Pioneer trails that passed through this region in the 19th century. It features exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays that showcase the hardships and triumphs of the pioneer journey.
  • Mitchell Pass: This historic landmark served as a gateway to the west for thousands of migrants. The trail through Mitchell Pass cuts through the rock formations, and visitors can see the ruts of wagon wheels and other historical features that serve as a reminder of the westward journey.

Natural Attractions of Scotts Bluff National Monument: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Summit Road: A scenic drive through the monument offering stunning views of the bluff, the North Platte River valley, and the Great Plains. Visitors can pull over and take photos at designated points along the way.
  • Saddle Rock Trail: A moderate hiking trail that leads to a viewpoint overlooking the monument. The trail is about 3.5 miles long and can take anywhere from 1.5 to 2.5 hours to complete.
  • Prairie Wildflower Trail: A 0.5-mile trail that takes visitors through a meadow of wildflowers that bloom in the summer.
  • Camping: Scotts Bluff National Monument offers two campgrounds for those who want to spend a night or two in the park. The campgrounds have tent and RV sites, and amenities include potable water, restrooms, and picnic tables.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Scotts Bluff National Monument

  • Saddle Rock Trail: As mentioned above, this moderate hiking trail leads to a viewpoint overlooking the monument. The trail is about 3.5 miles long and can take anywhere from 1.5 to 2.5 hours to complete.
  • South Side Trail: This moderate hiking trail is about 4 miles long and offers fantastic views of Mitchell Pass and the North Platte River Valley.
  • Summit Road Trail: This easy trail is a 1.6-mile roundtrip that takes visitors up to the North Overlook for panoramic views of the park.
  • Robidoux Pass Trail: A challenging 6.2-mile hike that follows the Oregon Trail and offers sweeping views of the surrounding prairie.

Best Things to Do in Scotts Bluff National Monument: Activities and Tours

  • Junior Ranger Program: The National Park Service offers a Junior Ranger Program for children ages 5-12. Kids can complete activities and earn a Junior Ranger badge.
  • Ranger-led programs: The park rangers offer a variety of ranger-led programs throughout the year, including guided hikes, living history demonstrations, and stargazing parties.
  • Night Sky Viewing: The park is designated as a Dark Sky Park, offering unobstructed views of the stars and constellations. Visitors can bring binoculars or telescopes to enjoy the night sky views.

Week-Long Itinerary for Scotts Bluff National Monument

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Oregon Trail Museum and Mitchell Pass
Day 2 Hike the Saddle Rock Trail
Day 3 Drive the Summit Road and take photos at designated points
Day 4 Bike the South Side Trail
Day 5 Explore the Prairie Wildflower Trail
Day 6 Attend a ranger-led program or a stargazing party
Day 7 Relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the park

Food and Drink Scene of Scotts Bluff National Monument

Must-Try Dishes

  • Runza: A unique Nebraskan dish, Runza is a sandwich stuffed with beef, onions, and cabbage.
  • Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn grown in Nebraska makes for a tasty side dish.
  • Flatwater: A refreshing beverage made with fruit flavorings and soda water, typically found in the Midwest.

Local Beverages

  • Kinkaider Brewing Company: This brewing company in nearby Broken Bow offers a variety of craft beers, including local favorites like the Devil’s Gap Jalapeno Ale, plus seasonal brews.
  • Wine-tasting: Visitors can also sample wines from Nebraska wineries at the local tasting rooms.

Where to Stay in Scotts Bluff National Monument: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hampton Inn & Suites: Just five miles from the monument visitor center, this modern hotel offers comfortable rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a complimentary breakfast.
  • Days Inn & Suites: Located in Gering, about two miles from the monument, this hotel offers budget-friendly rooms with flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi.
  • AirBnB: Visitors can opt to stay in a cozy guesthouse or apartment rental near the park to experience a more local atmosphere.

What to Buy in Scotts Bluff National Monument: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Oregon Trail souvenirs: Local shops sell a variety of memorabilia related to the Oregon Trail and the westward migration, including replica wagons and pioneer clothing.
  • Nebraska-made products: Visitors can find locally made products like jams, sweets, and jerky.

Local Culture and Customs of Scotts Bluff National Monument

  • Western heritage: The region has a strong western heritage that is celebrated through festivals, rodeos, and other cultural events throughout the year.
  • Conservation efforts: The park has a variety of conservation efforts in place, including a bison breeding program and restoration of the native prairies.

Best Time to Visit Scotts Bluff National Monument

The best time to visit Scotts Bluff National Monument is from April to October when the weather is mild, and the park offers a variety of programs and activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Scotts Bluff National Monument

Do:

  • Pack layers, as weather can change quickly.
  • Observe all posted signs and regulations.
  • Practice “Leave No Trace” principles.

Don’t:

  • Remove any artifacts or natural objects from the park.
  • Feed the wildlife.
  • Leave trash or litter behind.

Safety and Health

Safety in Scotts Bluff National Monument

  • Be aware of the possibility of lightning during thunderstorms.
  • Stay on designated trails and paths.
  • Watch for rattlesnakes and other wildlife.

Health in Scotts Bluff National Monument

  • Wear sunscreen and a hat to protect against the sun.
  • Bring plenty of water and snacks for long hikes or bike rides.
  • Be aware of altitude sickness if coming from lower elevations.

Getting to Scotts Bluff National Monument: Transportation Options and Logistics

The park is located near the town of Gering, Nebraska, and is easily accessible by car or bus.

Airports Near Scotts Bluff National Monument

  • Western Nebraska Regional Airport: Located in Scottsbluff, NE, just seven miles from the park.
  • Denver International Airport: Located about three and a half hours from the park.

Bus Stations Near Scotts Bluff National Monument

  • Greyhound Bus: Serves Gering, NE, which is about two miles from the monument.

Other Options

  • Rental Car: Visitors can rent a car from the airport to get around the area.
  • Biking: Visitors can also bike to the park on the nearby trails.

How to Get Around in Scotts Bluff National Monument

The park has a limited shuttle service that runs during the summer months from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Visitors can also drive their cars on the Summit Road and park in designated areas to enjoy the views.

Where to Go Next from Scotts Bluff National Monument: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Carhenge: Located in Alliance, NE, this quirky sculpture features a replica of England’s Stonehenge made entirely of cars.
  • Chimney Rock National Historic Site: This landmark on the Oregon Trail is located in Bayard, NE and is just an hour’s drive from Scotts Bluff.
  • Fort Laramie National Historic Site: Located in Fort Laramie, WY, this historic site served as a trading post and military fort in the 19th century.

Conclusion

Scotts Bluff National Monument is a testament to the history, natural beauty, and culture of the Great Plains. From the trails and scenic drives to the fascinating museums, there is something for everyone in this amazing park. So plan your visit now and explore the wonders it has to offer!

Scotts Bluff National Monument Scotts Bluff National Monument The view from the South Overlook The view from the South Overlook