Scotts Bluff National Monument lies entirely within Scotts Bluff County and covers 3,003.3 acres. Here, a striking landscape meets abundant traces of history: Scotts Bluff rises 800 feet above the North Platte River, while trails, historic trail ruts, and the Summit Road offer different ways to explore the area.
Explore Scotts Bluff on Foot and by Car
The monument has almost 4 miles of hiking trails. You can also reach the summit by car: the Summit Road climbs for 1.6 miles. The trails are open daily year-round from sunrise to sunset. A hike and the drive to the summit offer different ways to experience the terrain.
At Mitchell Pass, a short section of deep, erosion-formed historic trail ruts has been developed into a walking and interpretive trail. Those interested in the history of routes through this landscape will find a tangible connection here. The free mobile-phone audio tour is another option, with two sections of six stops each. The monument’s art collection adds a distinctive element, too: it is the world’s largest collection of artworks by William Henry Jackson.
Nature and Outdoor Activities Across Varied Landscapes
Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area offers a different landscape, with pine and juniper defining its ridge and canyon habitats. More than 3 miles of trails are available to hikers, cyclists, and horseback riders. At the Wildcat Hills Nature Center, interactive exhibits about local plants and animals complement the nature experience. The center’s naturalists offer ecological education programs for the public year-round.
Lake Minatare State Recreation Area offers yet another focus. It covers 2,158 acres and attracts water skiers every year. Alongside the trails in the Wildcat Hills, it illustrates how varied the nature and recreation opportunities at local destinations can be—from activities on trails to water sports.
Museums, Historic Sites, and Living History
The Legacy of the Plains Museum showcases an extensive collection of artifacts from pioneer times and the early development of the community. The museum also includes an 80-acre working farm. The collection and the farm offer two different ways to engage with the past: preserved objects and a place used for agriculture.
Other historic stops lead to very different chapters of the past. Fort Mitchell served as a frontier army post from 1864 to 1867; its site was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1978. At Robidoux Pass, a trading post made from 100-year-old hand-hewn logs has been reconstructed at its original location. At the 1851 treaty gathering at Horse Creek, about 10,000 members of Plains Indian peoples representing 10 tribes came together.
In Scottsbluff, Riverside Discovery Center, a small zoo, adds to the range of destinations. Those interested in local events can mark Morrill’s annual Rendezvous Days on their calendars: it takes place on the third weekend in July. Check event dates before your trip.
Plan Routes and Events
A 23-mile route follows Carter Canyon Road and returns via Robidoux Road. Local conditions should be checked before setting out, so a quick check is part of the planning. Summit to Summit is a 7.2-mile running, walking, and shuttle event. The route follows a paved path west to the visitor center at Scotts Bluff National Monument. If you plan to take part, check the dates in advance.
Scotts Bluff County can be explored through a range of interests: historic trail ruts and collections, nature and trails, or a route along named roads. Your choice depends on whether you want to focus on landscape, history, outdoor activity, or an event.
Discover More Destinations
Discover more destinations: Kearney County, Otoe County, Wayne County, Thomas County, Franklin County.
Go to the main travel overview: Nebraska.
