Experience the Outlaw Trail Scenic Byway
Saddle up to explore the Outlaw Trail Scenic Byway to experience friendly people, scenic vistas and the history of Nebraska’s Native American tribes, outlaws, cowboys and pioneers. Filled with unique small towns, experiences and stops, a journey along Highway 12 will be a memorable one.
Route Directions
South Sioux City to Ponca: 20 miles; Ponca to Hartington: 39 miles; Hartington to Crofton: 19 miles; Crofton to Niobrara: 28 miles; Niobrara to Naper: 62 miles; Naper to Springview: 41 miles; Springview to Valentine: 54 miles.
Day 1
Ponca
Begin your adventure with a hearty breakfast at Crystal Café Truck Stop before heading west toward Ponca, the fourth-oldest town in Nebraska, to learn more about the town’s history at the Cook Blacksmith Shop & Historical Adams House Museum. This living history museum shows the vital role blacksmiths had in the development of many American communities.
Hartington
Next, head to Hartington and Nissen Winery & Outlaw Trail Center to taste a variety of delicious Nebraska wines while listening to stories of some of the area’s infamous outlaws like Jesse James, Sam Bass, and Kid Wade. Then, stop for lunch at CJ’s at the Lake overlooking Nebraska’s second largest lake, Lewis and Clark Lake.
Crofton
After lunch, stop by the Lewis and Clark Lake Visitor Center to explore Lewis and Clark’s journey to locate a viable western route before heading into Crofton to view the largest public display of farm pulleys in the world at the Lewis and Clark Pulley Museum and Haymarket.
Day 2
Niobrara/Ponca Nation
Rise and shine for day two with a hearty breakfast at Country Café in Niobrara before heading to the Northern Ponca Tribe of Nebraska to walk along the Ponca Educational Trail and visit the Earth Lodge and Chief Standing Bear statue. The on-site Ponca Tribal Museum displays artifacts from Ponca history, American Indian artwork, and pictures from the tribal archives for you to learn more about the Ponca Nation.
Monowi
Heading west you pass through Nebraska’s smallest incorporated town, Monowi, home to only one resident. She also makes a mean hamburger at the Monowi Tavern so this might be a good stop for lunch.
Naper
Next is the White Horse Ranch Museum & Heritage Hall in Naper where you can explore displays and artifacts highlighting the history of Naper and the White Horse Ranch.
Springview
Springview is home the Keya Paha County Historical Society and its more than a century of local history.
Valentine
Check into your hotel then dine on a delicious meal at Peppermill E.K. Valentine Lounge, a local favorite before heading to Merritt Reservoir State Recreation Area, home to Nebraska’s first International Dark Sky Place, for amazing and spectacular views of the night skies seen with no light pollution. Or, if you would rather remain in town, taste some excellently crafted beers made from the purest Sandhills water at Bolo Beer Co.
Day 3
Valentine
A hearty breakfast at Bunkhouse Restaurant and Saloon will give you the energy to explore Valentine and the surrounding area. Smith Falls State Park is home to Nebraska’s tallest waterfall where you can enjoy the water rushing down on you as you stand under the falls. On your way to the park, stop by Golden Prairie Bison to learn more about these amazing creatures and how the owners work to be mindful stewards of the land and conserve it for future generations. Head back into Valentine for some stick-to-your-ribs barbeque at Bulldoggers BBQ followed by a drive south of town to Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge where a driving tour will let you view the refuge’s bison herd and other wildlife. If you are looking for amazing outdoor recreational activities like kayaking or tubing down the scenic Niobrara River, Valentine is your place!