Scotts Bluff National Monument (U.S. National Park Service)

Two covered wagons sit in a grassy field in front of a large rock outcropping. — Visit Scotts Bluff National Monument in Nebraska
NPS Photo

Gifts/Souvenirs/Books, Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Information - Ranger/Staff Member Present, Picnic Table, Restroom, Scenic View/Photo Spot, Trailhead, Water - Drinking/Potable

Scotts Bluff National Monument is named for an immense section of sandstone and clay bluffs that tower 800 feet above the North Platte River. This 3000 acre monument is managed by the National Park Service and has numerous amenities and things to do. A visitor center contains exhibits about the geological, paleontological, and human history of the monument, including exhibits about the Oregon Trail and its travelers.

The visitor center also contains a bookstore and plays an introductory film. Additional features of the monument include a paved road that allows visitors to drive to the top of the bluffs, numerous interpretive waysides, several hiking trails, and magnificent views. Restrooms drinking water, soda machines, and picnic tables are available. Plan to stay for a minimum of two hours to enjoy the park. Modest admission is charged.

National Historic Trails

The bluffs of Scotts Bluff National Monument rise directly from the North Platte River, blocking wagon travel along the river's south bank. At first, emigrants had to take a detour south and use Robidoux Pass, a natural gateway, to get through the bluffs. This mostly stopped in 1850 when a new route was opened at Mitchell Pass. Located close to the North Platte River, this route saved emigrants nearly 15 miles of travel. The route, though, was narrow, due to the land's geography. As such, more than 300,000 emigrants, and their wagons and livestock, had to travel on the same strip of land. Eventually, deep ruts formed as a result of this traffic. These ruts are still visible today and are now a part of Scotts Bluff National Monument. A section of them has been developed into a walking trail with interpretive waysides.

Emigrant Remarks

In 1845, General Philip St. George Cooke marveled at the strange formation that rose before him.

"Looming afar over river and plain was 'Scott's Bluff,' a Nebraska Gibralter; surmounted by a colossal fortress and a royal castle, it jutted on the water. . . . This morning marched three miles still nearer to that mysterious mountain . . . without being disenchanted of its colossal ruins and phantom occupants."

Site Information

Location (Three miles west of Gering, Nebraska on Old Oregon Trail Highway 92 West.)

Scotts Bluff National Monument

National Historic Trails

Site Information