A Drive Down Nebraska’s Loneliest Road Will Take You Miles And Miles Away From It All

To people traveling cross-country between the east and west, Nebraska seems like a barren wasteland. We forgive them for thinking that way because, in truth, there is almost nothing to see along I-80. But if you're going all the way north to south (or vice versa), you'll most likely travel US Highway 83 in Nebraska, one of the most underrated highways in the state. In fact, it might just be one of the most scenic drives in Nebraska.

US Highway 83 has been called "The Road to Nowhere." However, as you can see from this map, it's actually an important route stretching from Canada to Mexico. It's the shortest established route between the two countries.

In Nebraska, the highway goes in a nearly straight shot from the South Dakota border down to the Kansas border. It passes through west-central Nebraska, one of the most sparsely populated, yet lovely, parts of the state.

There are long expanses of empty road with nothing but cows and fields to keep you company.

But the highway also passes through several of the interesting and scenic towns out in this part of the state. McCook, North Platte, Thedford, and Valentine are all along the route, along with a few smaller towns.

If you appreciate small towns, you'll agree that this route is one of the most scenic drives in Nebraska.

For the most part, though, you'll simply enjoy the natural scenery. You'll pass through the Valentine National Wildlife Refuge, near the Red Willow Reservoir State Wildlife Management Area, over several scenic rivers, and of course through the gorgeous sandhills.

To be sure, there are some stretches of road that will have you feeling bored - but they're worth it when you get to this type of scene. The Dismal River running through the Sandhills is an unforgettable sight.

The way is scenic, but sparsely traveled, which perhaps helps to perpetuate its reputation as the "Road to Nowhere."

You won't run into traffic on Highway 83 in Nebraska  - it's actually a rather rare occurrence to see another car on the road. This is the perfect opportunity to get away from life for a little while and to experience a part of the Cornhusker State that not many people take the time to really see. You can take the entire 257-mile journey all at once or just travel part of it. Either way, you might just be surprised at how beautiful this often-forgotten part of our state is.

If you're interested in more of the most scenic drives in Nebraska, take a look at these 9 beautiful byways in Nebraska.