Scotts Bluff National Monument



Located in Gering, NE, Scotts Bluff National Monument is a striking geological and historical landmark that rises 800 feet above the North Platte River. It spans over 3,000 acres and has served as a beacon for Native Americans, fur traders, and emigrants traveling the Oregon Trail. I visited Scotts Bluff in June 2025.

For those needing to stretch their legs the Saddle Rock Trail is a good choice. It's a moderate, 3.2 mile out-and-back hike with an elevation gain of 527 feet. The trail starts at the visitor center and ends at the north overlook trail on the summit of Scotts Bluff. The trail passes through a tunnel in Saddle Rock which is kind of cool. The North and South Overlook Trails on the summit are short, easy trails that offer spectacular views of the surrounding area.



Scotts Bluff National Monument


Visitor Center
Scotts Bluff in background


Visitor Center Entrance


Scotts Bluff Gift Shop and Museum



Gift Shop Merch


Goods for Sale


Museum Exhibits


Colt 1849 Pocket Revolver, among other things


A VITAL AND REVERED HOMELAND


"They are called Scotts Bluffs"


Up the Bluff

Summit Road runs from the Visitor Center to a parking lot on the summit of Scotts Bluff. The road passes through three tunnels along the way. North and South Overlook Trails start from the summit parking lot.



View Southeast from Parking Area


Saddle Rock and part of Saddle Rock Trail
View from Parking Area


North Overlook Trail


Gering Canal (foreground), railroad tracks, North Platte River, and Simon ScottsBluff Ready Mix (center background)


Eroding Landmark


Survey Marker


Scott Memorial


View Northeast from North Overlook Trail toward the city of Scotts Bluff


South Overlook Trail


Visitor Center View from South Overlook


Summit Road and first of three tunnels


Saddle Rock from South Overlook
Notice the hiker by the trail tunnel entrance


Panorama South to Southeast
Old Oregon Trail (Road K) runs through the photo


Maginnis Irrigation Aqueduct (left center)
View from South Overlook


Background information obtained from Copilot AI and the National Park Service.
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