Discover Incredible Hiking with Panoramic Views

If you could see Nebraska through my eyes, you’d see a side of the state just waiting to be explored. A state full of natural wonder and hidden gems. A side that invites you to spread out, slow down, and just take in everything the good life has to offer. In Western Nebraska, you can explore Toadstool Geologic Park, an area of land so geologically complex, you’ll wonder if you’re even still in the state. There, you can climb giant hills, leap from ledge to ledge, and hike far into the distance. When you’re done, make sure you check out the High Plains Homestead, home of the Drifter Cookshack, for a tasty snack or a delicious dinner.

You can also check out Scotts Bluff National Monument, a towering bluff with panoramic views in every direction. Make sure you hike up the monument in addition to driving up; each way provides a unique view of the attraction. In addition, make sure you drive around the area, too, as there are lots of beautiful fields of sunflowers nearby. If you want to see a side of Nebraska you never knew existed, you won’t be disappointed with these treasured destinations.

My name is Dan and this is Western Nebraska through my eyes.

Dan Cooper
2/15/2017
Toadstool Geologic Park

Toadstool Campground
Crawford, NE
United States

The "moonscape" of the Badlands is an unusual setting for a picnic. Use self-guided trail brochure to explore the area's fascinating geology. 4 mi. N. on NE Hwy 2, W. on Toadstool Road, follow signs - Open year-round, 24 hrs/day. Admission mid-May thru mid-Nov: $5 camping fee, $3 per car for day use. Handicapped accessible camping facilities.

Scotts Bluff National Monument

190276 Old Oregon Trail
Gering, NE
United States

Scotts Bluff has served as a landmark for peoples from Native Americans to emigrants on the Oregon, California and Mormon Trails to modern travelers. Rich with geological and paleontological history as well as human history, there is much to discover while exploring the 3,000 acres of Scotts Bluff National Monument. Trails are open daily from sunrise to sunset. The Visitor Center and Summit Road are closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day & New Year’s Day. Passes: $5 per vehicle, $3 per motorcycle, $3 per person (walking or bicycling). Also available: Monument annual pass, Interagency Senior Pass, Annual Pass, Military Annual Pass, and Access Pass. Drive Summit Road 1.6 miles to the top of Scotts Bluff through the only three drive-through tunnels in the state. Size restrictions exist and all trailers are prohibited. Free shuttle service available as staffing allows.