We are so lucky to live in this state because the opportunities for outdoor adventures and activities in Nebraska are bountiful! From the Missouri River to the rolling prairies and the Sandhills to the Platte, there's much to explore in the Cornhusker State. We've put together this itinerary so that you can see some of our state's most stunning landscapes with as little driving time as possible. All you have to do is get to Chadron, and the rest of the trip only involves a couple more hours in the car - if you want!
From national parks and campgrounds to waterfalls, canyons, and more, there is so much to love about America’s natural splendor — and June, designated as Great Outdoors Month, is the perfect time to get outside.
With less than two hours of drive time on the first day, minus the trip there (and a 10-minute bonus trip the next morning), this nature getaway features stunning views of some of the most picturesque landscapes the Cornhusker State has to offer, as well as some fascinating stops along the way.
Explore Soldier Creek Wilderness In The Nebraska National Forest
Your road trip itinerary starts at Soldier Creek Wilderness in the Nebraska National Forest. Located near Chadron, this part of the forest consists of almost 8,000 undeveloped acres and is open for exploration.
We recommend the 9.7-mile Trooper Trail loop, a moderate trail, which you can access from the Middle and South Fork trail heads. Visit the Forest Service website for more information. Trail brochures are also available from ranger stations.
Hike At Scotts Bluff National Monument
Scotts Bluff National Monument commemorates a site that was a key stop on the Oregon Trail, and it's a fantastic place to learn more about the historical significance of this crucial route for westward expansion. It's also home to some of Nebraska's most magnificent landscape.
Hopefully, the drive from the national forest gave your legs time to rejuvenate, because the best way to experience this national monument is on foot (although you could just drive through it if you really wanted to). For park maps and more information on the monument's history and geography, visit Scotts Bluff National Monument's website.
See more of the trails at the Scotts Bluff National Monument
Dine at The Tangled Tumbleweed
When you've finished hiking, you'll be hungry and thirsty. So head into the nearby town of Scottsbluff and find a seat at The Tangled Tumbleweed.
The restaurant specializes in tapas, like these shredded beef samosas.
Much of the restaurant's food has a Mexican/Latin American flair, which means it's bursting with flavor and hits just right after a day on the trail.
And its signature margaritas go a long way toward quenching a hiker's thirst. Check out the restaurant's website to see a full menu or to call ahead.
Stay at Hotel 21 & Co.
Spend the night at Hotel 21 & Co. in Gering, Scottsbluff's sister city, and just a few minutes from the restaurant.
The hotel is beautifully appointed and boasts a well-stocked lobby bar if you're interested in a night cap before turning in.
Many of the rooms boast views of Scotts Bluff, and all of them have comfortable beds that will ensure you awake feeling refreshed. The hostelry's Hotels.com listing describes its rooms and amenities in more detail, and you can also make your reservations on the site.
Greet the Day at Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area
The next morning, if you're feeling up for it, head a few minutes out of town to the Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area. There, you can explore the nature center.
And take in more of this region's remarkable landscape on a morning hike before you head back home.
Maps, details, and more information are available on the Game and Parks website.
What do you think? Will you hit the road for this incredible nature getaway? What other outdoor adventures and activities in Nebraska should we know about? You can discover other unique Cornhusker State day trips here.
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