Missouri River Scenic Byways in Nebraska
The Missouri River Scenic Byways in Nebraska is a 202-mile route that follows the Missouri River and traverses through several unique regions of the state. This scenic route is part of the 3,000-mile Great River Road that spans across ten states along the Mississippi and Missouri rivers. The route begins at the Interstate 29 and US-77 junction in Omaha and ends at the I-80 and US-77 intersection in Gothenburg.
The beginning of the route in Omaha takes visitors through the city's historic Old Market district, which features turn-of-the-century warehouses and the historic Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge. The bridge, which spans the Missouri River, connects Omaha to Council Bluffs, Iowa, and provides panoramic views of the city skyline. As the route continues southward, it passes through the towns of Bellevue and Plattsmouth, where historic architecture and riverfront parks are prominent features.
The route then enters the Missouri River Valley, which features unique geological formations and vast river flats. The Missouri River Valley is part of the Eastern Great Plains region of the United States, which was shaped by glaciers millions of years ago. The region's flat landscape is dotted with rolling hills, wetlands, and towering sandstone cliffs that were carved out by the Missouri River.
In Brownville, a historic town that sits on the west bank of the Missouri River, visitors can find the Brownville Historic Village and Museum, which features restored 19th-century buildings and provides insight into the region's history and culture. Further south, the route passes through the town of Peru, which features several historic buildings and natural springs that were a vital resource for early settlers.
One of the most notable sections of the route is the 40-mile segment through the Boyer Chute National Wildlife Refuge, which is one of the largest prairies in the state. The refuge features several hiking trails, observation decks, and an abundance of wildlife, including bald eagles, white pelicans, and deer. Visitors can also explore the nearby DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge, which is home to over 300 species of birds and features several wildlife viewing areas.
The route concludes in the central part of the state, where visitors can explore the Sandhills region and its unique geology. The region features vast expanses of sand dunes and rugged terrain that were shaped by ancient rivers and windstorms. The Sandhills are also home to several small towns and rural communities that offer a glimpse into the state's rural heritage.
The Missouri River Scenic Byways in Nebraska offer a unique perspective on the state's natural and cultural heritage. The route passes through several historic towns, natural areas, and unique geological formations that make it an ideal destination for travelers looking to explore the region's diverse landscape.
The beginning of the route in Omaha takes visitors through the city's historic Old Market district, which features turn-of-the-century warehouses and the historic Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge. The bridge, which spans the Missouri River, connects Omaha to Council Bluffs, Iowa, and provides panoramic views of the city skyline. As the route continues southward, it passes through the towns of Bellevue and Plattsmouth, where historic architecture and riverfront parks are prominent features.
The route then enters the Missouri River Valley, which features unique geological formations and vast river flats. The Missouri River Valley is part of the Eastern Great Plains region of the United States, which was shaped by glaciers millions of years ago. The region's flat landscape is dotted with rolling hills, wetlands, and towering sandstone cliffs that were carved out by the Missouri River.
In Brownville, a historic town that sits on the west bank of the Missouri River, visitors can find the Brownville Historic Village and Museum, which features restored 19th-century buildings and provides insight into the region's history and culture. Further south, the route passes through the town of Peru, which features several historic buildings and natural springs that were a vital resource for early settlers.
One of the most notable sections of the route is the 40-mile segment through the Boyer Chute National Wildlife Refuge, which is one of the largest prairies in the state. The refuge features several hiking trails, observation decks, and an abundance of wildlife, including bald eagles, white pelicans, and deer. Visitors can also explore the nearby DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge, which is home to over 300 species of birds and features several wildlife viewing areas.
The route concludes in the central part of the state, where visitors can explore the Sandhills region and its unique geology. The region features vast expanses of sand dunes and rugged terrain that were shaped by ancient rivers and windstorms. The Sandhills are also home to several small towns and rural communities that offer a glimpse into the state's rural heritage.
The Missouri River Scenic Byways in Nebraska offer a unique perspective on the state's natural and cultural heritage. The route passes through several historic towns, natural areas, and unique geological formations that make it an ideal destination for travelers looking to explore the region's diverse landscape.
