Scotts Bluff National Monument, Monument in Gering, Nebraska
Monument

Scotts Bluff National Monument

Gering · Nebraska

Overview

About Scotts Bluff National Monument.

Towering 800 feet above the North Platte River, Scotts Bluff has served as a landmark for peoples from Native Americans to emigrants on the Oregon, California and Mormon Trails to modern travelers. Rich with geological and paleontological history as well as human history, there is much to discover while exploring the 3,000 acres of Scotts Bluff National Monument.

Arts and CultureCultural DemonstrationsAuto and ATVScenic DrivingBikingFoodPicnickingGuided ToursSelf-Guided Tours - WalkingHikingBackcountry HikingFront-Country Hiking

Weather

Summers at Scotts Bluff are generally dry and high temperatures are usually in the 80's and 90's, although they can reach above 100 on occasion. Hikers are strongly advised to carry water. Winter daytime temperatures are usually in the 40's or low 50's, with overnight lows below freezing and, on occasion, below 0 degrees Fahrenheit. Although it can be windy any time of the year, spring is the windiest season.

Key Facts

TypeMonument
DesignationNational Monument

Official Website

Gallery

Photos of Scotts Bluff National Monument.

5 images

Things to do

Discover Scotts Bluff National Monument.

A sandstone bluff is dusted with snow.

Backcountry Hiking South Bluff

60-180 Minutes

Backcountry hiking on South Bluff is difficult and should only be attempted by experienced hikers. Please check in with the ranger at the visitor center.

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Five junior rangers raise their right hands and take the Junior Ranger Pledge with a NPS Ranger.

Become a Scotts Bluff Junior Ranger

30-45 Minutes

Earn your Scotts Bluff National Monument Junior Ranger badge!

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A pair of bicyclists are seen riding towards a distinctive sandstone rock formation.

Bicycling at Scotts Bluff National Monument

30-90 Minutes

Bicycling can be a great way to experience Scotts Bluff National Monument. There are two locations in the monument where bicycling is permitted: the Prairie View Trail, and the Summit Road when it is closed to vehicular traffic.

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A car approaches a tunnel on a steep, winding road.

Drive the Scotts Bluff Summit Road

20-60 Minutes

A 1.6 mile drive from the Scotts Bluff Visitor Center Parking Lot to the summit of Scotts Bluff. This drive features scenic views and interesting geology. Vehicles longer than 25 feet (7.6 meters) and/or higher than 11 feet 7 inches (3.53 meters) are prohibited. All trailers are prohibited.

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Two ladies enjoy a picnic at a picnic shelter.

Enjoy a Picnic at Scotts Bluff

30-60 Minutes

Enjoy a picnic at Scotts Bluff National Monument

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Two hikers walk towards an interesting rock formation.

Hiking Scotts Bluff National Monument

There are nearly four miles of hiking trails at Scotts Bluff National Monument. There is a trail for every ability.

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A park ranger takes a close look at concretions of limestone embedded in sandstone.

Saddle Rock Trail Geology Hiking Tour

60-90 Minutes

This 1.6 mile hike on the Saddle Rock Trail features 435 feet of elevation change. Participants will have an opportunity to observe and learn about some unique geological features and the processes that created the landscape of Scotts Bluff National Monument.

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A woman stands on a paved trail with a cellular phone to her ear and a view of sandstone bluffs.

Scotts Bluff Cell Phone Audio Tour

5-150 Minutes

The Scotts Bluff National Monument Cell Phone Audio Tour is a great way to learn more about the natural and cultural history of this famous landmark on the Oregon and California Trails.

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Two rangers, dressed as emigrants on the Oregon Trail, talk with a visitor next to a covered wagon.

Scotts Bluff Ranger Programs

15-60 Minutes

Learn more about Scotts Bluff National Monument by attending a ranger-guided program!

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