Safety

While visiting Scotts Bluff National Monument, please take precautions to minimize the risk of encountering an unsafe situation. Review the safety information below to prepare for your trip to the monument. If you encounter an emergency in the monument, please call 911.

 

Check the Weather

Summer weather can bring high temperatures and low humidity. It is important to have plenty of water with you to prevent dehydration, especially during longer walks or hikes. Wear a hat and light-colored clothing to help regulate your body temperature.Severe thunderstorms with damaging hail and tornados are also possible in the late spring and summer. Be aware of developing storms and head for cover at the first signs of the storm. There are no shelter areas on the summit or the hiking trails. The Summit Road is closed during severe weather. Winter weather varies greatly. October, November and April are generally mild. December through February are the coldest months. Wind chill is the most dangerous factor of winter weather. During cold weather, do not leave skin exposed to the air, and dress in layers to avoid overheating. While the Summit Road is cleared of snow after each snowfall, the hiking trails are not. Hike at your own risk.

 

Prairie rattlesnakes are seen fairly commonly during the warmer months.

NPS/Eric Grunwald

Respect the Environment

Respect Wildlife

National parks are great places to view wildlife. However, it is important to remember that all wildlife is potentially dangerous. Please give wildlife space.

Also, be aware that Scotts Bluff is prairie rattlesnake habitat. While common, they do not pose great danger to humans. If given the chance, they will try to avoid humans. Snakes can easily be seen from the trail. Off trail, they can be hidden in the environment. Here are some ways to avoid encounters with rattlesnakes:

• Stay on developed trails.

• Avoid walking through areas of tall grasses, plants, or shrubs.

• Do not let small children walk unattended on or off the trails in the park.

If you encounter a rattlesnake, you should:

• Stop where you are until you are sure where the snake is.

• Back away slowly.

• Keep a safe distance from the snake. (At least your own body length.)

Avoid Rock Fall by Staying on Monument Trails

For your safety, please stay on the paved pathways. The rock along the Summit Trails and Saddle Rock Trail is soft and crumbly. Leaving the paved trails can be extremely dangerous!