/ SCENIC BYWAYS / 71 3 Covered wagon 2 WILDCAT HILLS STATE RECREATION AREA, GERING 1 Nort h P 26 385 latte 27 Rive r 92 Scottsbluff 4 Ogallala 80 South Platte River WESTERN TRAILS SCENIC AND HISTORIC BYWAY Miles 144 The US 26 and State 92 from the Route Wyoming border to Ogallala Pioneers would have come across the same towering formations and pine-shaded bluffs on this route as drivers encounter today. Get out of your “wagon” and explore: Storied sites, picturesque trails and sparkling lakes await your discovery. 4 Ways to Do the West 1. Hike or mountain bike Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area in Gering. The views—of rocky bluffs, evergreen-studded canyons and the North Platte River Valley—are epic at this site, too. 2. Chimney Rock National Historic Site in Bayard protects a rock formation so perfectly pointy, it appears to be “Towering to the Heavens.” Don’t forget comfy shoes for hiking—or your camera. 3. Grab your binoculars and head to Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge. This site just north of Oshkosh boasts the country’s third highest number of documented bird species. Mid-May and fall are peak times to peek. 4. In Ogallala, access both Lake McConaughy and Lake Ogallala State Recreation Areas. These two Nebraskan lakes are peaceful and scenic—just right for fishing, swimming and taking shoreline hikes. LAKE MCCONAUGHY, OGALLALA Small-Town Stop: Gering Near a spoil of outdoor activities and pioneering sites, Gering welcomes adventurers and history buffs alike. Visit in mid-July to experience Oregon Trail Days. DO – Look for wagon ruts and historic markers at Mitchell Pass at Scotts Bluff National Monument. SHOP – Select a souvenir from the recently renovated Wildcat Hills Nature Center. EAT – Enjoy home-cooking in a fun, casual atmosphere at Log Cabin Restaurant & Lounge. STAY – Don’t miss the wagon in front of Monument Inn & Suites, a tribute to the past. 46 VisitNebraska.com
Nebraska Official State Travel Guide The Official 2019 Not-At-All What You Thought State Travel Guide: Page 50
