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Free Traveling Guides » States » Nebraska » DestinationsScotts Bluff National Monument
Scotts Bluff National Monument, situated in western Nebraska, features one of the greatest 19th century landmarks on the Oregon Trail and the Mormon Trail. The National Monument comprises of a number of bluffs situated to the south of the North Platte River. It has been named after the spectacular Scotts Bluff, which is nearly 830 ft (250 m) high. Scotts Bluff is the most prominent bluff in the Monument and is named in honor of Hiram Scott, a fur trader who died near the bluff in 1828.
The Scotts Bluff and all the nearby bluffs were designated as a National Monument on December 12, 1919. This National Monument is now managed by the National Park service. On October 15, 1966, the Monument was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Both, the city of Scottsbluff, Nebraska and the Scotts Bluff County, have been named after the National Monument. Today, Scotts Bluff national Monument preserves over 3000 acres (12 sq. km.) of outstanding land formations that rise over the flat prairie land.
The five major rock formations in this area include the Dome Rock, the Sentinel rock, the Crown Rock, the Eagle Rock, and the Saddle Rock. The scenic roadway that leads to the top of Scotts Bluff was built during the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps. On its way to the summit, the road cuts through three tunnels and offers an easy and safe access to the top. The Visitor Center at the base of the bluff serves as the starting point for the hiking tours of the bluffs. It also houses a Museum that holds photographs and artifacts, which illustrate the history of Oregon the Trail. The summit of the Scotts Bluff offers breathtaking views of the hills and mountains to the west; the spectacular river valley; and the flat land stretching to the east.
- Summer Hours: 8 AM - 7 PM daily
- Winter Hours: 8 AM - 5 PM daily
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