Learn about Boot Hill Cemetery, covered wagon history and rides, Oregon Trail wheel ruts, and see some unusual rock formations.
It seems everything in Nebraska is along straight lines, and you only have very few curves in this tour. It is scenic, though, as you follow The Oregon Trail and the North Platte River much of the way. Begin your drive in Ogallala and head northwest on U.S. 26 for 129 miles to Scottsbluff. Ogallala used to be the terminus for the famous Texas cattle drives, so its history is full of rowdiness. There is a scenic Boot Hill Cemetery on 10th Street. Ash Hollow State Park, 3 miles before Lewellen, has some fascinating rock formations and is the sight of the first battle of the Indian Wars in 1854 (Bluewater Battlefield). Chimney Rock National Historic Site marked the end of the grasslands for the Oregonians on their trek west. It is now brightly illuminated at night (What progress!).
Other stops worth taking time for include Baynard, well known for its covered wagon vacations. Take a journey on a Conestoga for a week or so. You can set eyes on Oregon Trail wheel ruts at Scotts Bluff National Monument. You can drive to the summit for some great views. Finally, on our circle out of Scottsbluff, there is the Courthouse and Jail Rocks formation near Bridgeport. Upon returning, head south from Scottsbluff on Route 71 and turn back east on Route 88. You will retrace a few extra miles on U.S. 26. Instead of following U.S. 26, you will be heading back to Scottsbluff on Route 92.
Starting Point:
Ogallala, NE
Distance of Drive:
220 miles
Must Eat:
Woodshed
18 East Sixteenth Street, Scottsbluff, NE 69361
Phone: 308-635-3684
Call ahead to confirm hours of operation.
Best Time of Year for Drive:
Spring to fall
Points of Interest on Drive:
Ash Hollow State Park
Chimney Rock National Historic Site
Boot Hill Cemetery
Tagged with: hiking • horseback riding • Nebraska
Filed under: Best Road Trips