Traveling Through Nebraska: Great Plains Scenic Byway
The Great Plains Scenic Byway, also known as the Great Plains Scenic Byway Highway 71, is a 82-mile scenic drive that traverses through the rolling hills and vast prairies of the Nebraska Sandhills, stretching from the town of Alliance in the north to the city of Scottsbluff in the south. As part of the Nebraska State Scenic Byways, this route showcases the state's unique geography, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage.
This scenic byway passes through the iconic High Plains region of the American West, where the geological features are characterized by vast expanses of sand and silt deposited by ancient rivers. Travelers can witness the unique landforms along the byway, including Chimney Rock National Historic Site, approximately 3 miles south of Bayard, which is a prominent rock formation that was an important landmark for pioneers and Native American travelers alike. The rock formation stands at approximately 325 feet tall and has a striking figure resembling the smokestack of a steam engine.
Not only is the Great Plains Scenic Byway known for its natural beauty, but it also serves as an important cultural route that showcases the history of the region. Travelers can visit the University of Nebraska State Museum's Trailside Museum in Crawford to gain insight into the geology, paleontology, and early human presence in the area. Additionally, the museum offers exhibits about the Overland Trail and various military expeditions that traversed the region during the 19th century.
Moreover, the byway also offers numerous recreational activities that allow travelers to immerse themselves in the diverse landscapes and wildlife of the region. In the fall, the Chimney Rock National Historic Site offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, particularly during the sandhill cranes' annual migration. Furthermore, the byway passes through multiple recreational areas and parks, including the Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area and the Robidoux RV Park, offering various outdoor activities like hiking, hunting, and camping.
From a geological perspective, the Great Plains Scenic Byway traverses a unique region where the Oligocene and Miocene periods' geological deposits are well exposed, and the byway offers a glimpse into the geological past of North America. Travelers can observe distinct rock formations, including the Arikaree Group and the Harrison Formation, which provide valuable information about the region's paleontology and prehistoric environments.
In addition to its diverse geology and cultural significance, the Great Plains Scenic Byway also demonstrates the close ties between the state's scenic byways and its local communities. As part of the byway development, the city of Alliance maintains its historic downtown area, where travelers can enjoy the architecture of early 20th-century buildings and sample local cuisine.
To maximize the experience of traveling through the Great Plains Scenic Byway, it is recommended that travelers take the route at a leisurely pace and engage in various outdoor activities along the way. By doing so, travelers can immerse themselves in the distinct geography, rich cultural heritage, and natural beauty of Nebraska's High Plains region.
Travelers interested in additional attractions in the region can explore local events, historical landmarks, and natural wonders that are unique to the Nebraska Sandhills. Some examples include the Museum of the Fur Trade near Chadron and the Scotts Bluff National Monument near the city of Scottsbluff.
This scenic byway passes through the iconic High Plains region of the American West, where the geological features are characterized by vast expanses of sand and silt deposited by ancient rivers. Travelers can witness the unique landforms along the byway, including Chimney Rock National Historic Site, approximately 3 miles south of Bayard, which is a prominent rock formation that was an important landmark for pioneers and Native American travelers alike. The rock formation stands at approximately 325 feet tall and has a striking figure resembling the smokestack of a steam engine.
Not only is the Great Plains Scenic Byway known for its natural beauty, but it also serves as an important cultural route that showcases the history of the region. Travelers can visit the University of Nebraska State Museum's Trailside Museum in Crawford to gain insight into the geology, paleontology, and early human presence in the area. Additionally, the museum offers exhibits about the Overland Trail and various military expeditions that traversed the region during the 19th century.
Moreover, the byway also offers numerous recreational activities that allow travelers to immerse themselves in the diverse landscapes and wildlife of the region. In the fall, the Chimney Rock National Historic Site offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, particularly during the sandhill cranes' annual migration. Furthermore, the byway passes through multiple recreational areas and parks, including the Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area and the Robidoux RV Park, offering various outdoor activities like hiking, hunting, and camping.
From a geological perspective, the Great Plains Scenic Byway traverses a unique region where the Oligocene and Miocene periods' geological deposits are well exposed, and the byway offers a glimpse into the geological past of North America. Travelers can observe distinct rock formations, including the Arikaree Group and the Harrison Formation, which provide valuable information about the region's paleontology and prehistoric environments.
In addition to its diverse geology and cultural significance, the Great Plains Scenic Byway also demonstrates the close ties between the state's scenic byways and its local communities. As part of the byway development, the city of Alliance maintains its historic downtown area, where travelers can enjoy the architecture of early 20th-century buildings and sample local cuisine.
To maximize the experience of traveling through the Great Plains Scenic Byway, it is recommended that travelers take the route at a leisurely pace and engage in various outdoor activities along the way. By doing so, travelers can immerse themselves in the distinct geography, rich cultural heritage, and natural beauty of Nebraska's High Plains region.
Travelers interested in additional attractions in the region can explore local events, historical landmarks, and natural wonders that are unique to the Nebraska Sandhills. Some examples include the Museum of the Fur Trade near Chadron and the Scotts Bluff National Monument near the city of Scottsbluff.
