Scotts Bluff National Monument is one of the wonders in Nebraska that you don’t want to miss. Aside from its breathtaking view, this place has a historical background as well. If you are into history and adventure then this is the place that you need to visit. This national park has a huge acreage of spectacular rock and land transformation which will surely amaze you. As you travel through this scenic place, be stunned by the dark and light horizontal lines traveling through the rocks, unveiling its geological history. It also gives you that dramatic feeling knowing its history that this was the landmark for the emigrant trails.
Scotts Bluff Park was named after Hiram Scott who died alone and abandoned by his troops at the base of Bluffs along North Platte River back in 1828. Despite it’s sad namesake, it has a ton of areas to explore.
Aside from its marvelous rock formation scenery, here are the list of things you can do inside the National Park
- Visit the the monument visitor center to know more about the Native Americans who traveled past Scotts Bluff
- Go hiking on the Monument trails, feel the fresh air and enjoy the panoramic sunset
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Explore the William Henry Jackson collection. Scotts Bluff stores the largest collection of William Henry Jackson in the whole world. You will see his sketches, paintings and photography.
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Make a stop at the souvenir shop as this offers a variety of items about Scotts Bluff history. Also all the sales made from the store goes to the interpretive programming at Scotts Bluff National Monument.
- Get your passport stamped at the stamping station found in the Park Store
- If you want to see the picturesque view of Scotts Bluff, and discover more of its unique geological features, Go on hiking.
- If you want to relax and just enjoy the view with your friends and family, this National park has designated covered picnic areas with a garbage can which is open from sunrise to sunset.
- Learn more about the history, animals, and the geological history of Scotts Bluff by joining their Ranger Program.
- You may also want to join their Junior Ranger program where you can earn a special badge by completing the activities in the booklet.
- Are you planning to bring your furry friend during your visit? Please make sure that you adhere to the guidelines in order to ensure a safe and fun experience. Also note that pets are not allowed to enter the Visitor’s Center. You also need to clean up your pets’ waste and make sure to not leave any trash behind.
Visiting Scotts Bluff National Monument has no entrance fee and while the park is open daily from sunrise till sunset, you may also need to check the weather condition prior to visiting to have a safe and fun filled experience.