Traveling Through Nebraska's Lake Mcconaughy Scenic Byway
Located in the southwestern part of Nebraska, the Lake Mcconaughy Scenic Byway is a 79-mile route that runs along the northern shoreline of Lake Mcconaughy, also known as Big Mac. The byway traverses Ogallala, Deuel, and Keith counties, showcasing the state's diverse ecosystem and rich history. This scenic route began as an idea in the late 1990s and took approximately four years to complete, with a total cost of about 800,000 dollars.
Lake Mcconaughy, the largest lake in Nebraska, covering approximately 35,700 acres, is a reservoir created by the Kingsley Dam on the Platte River near Ogallala, Nebraska. The byway predominantly follows US-26 and NE-61, two state highways that run parallel to the lake's shoreline. Visitors can experience the changing environment of the Sandhills region as the landscape transforms from rolling hills to badlands.
One of the primary attractions along Lake Mcconaughy Scenic Byway is the Wild Horse Viewing Area near Sunol. The area features a large viewing platform where visitors can observe a herd of wild horses that have roamed freely in the region for decades. This unique spectacle highlights Nebraska's equine heritage. For those who appreciate ancient history, the Martin Bay area features numerous Native American petroglyphs depicting animals and symbols, left behind by Native American tribes that once inhabited the region.
In addition to these cultural attractions, Lake Mcconaughy Scenic Byway is also home to various parks, recreational areas, and state wildlife management areas. Visitors can stop at parks like Martin Bay or Cedar Point to partake in water sports, fishing, or simple relaxation. Moreover, several state wildlife management areas provide venues for birdwatching, as over 200 species of birds have been spotted in the area.
From a geological perspective, Lake Mcconaughy Scenic Byway showcases the distinct transitions between various landforms in Nebraska. Observers will witness how the landscape of the Sandhills changes dramatically as the byway approaches the rugged formations of the North Platte Valley. A truly unique combination of flora, fauna, and geology can be observed when driving this scenic byway.
Further providing an appreciation for the natural landscapes around Lake Mcconaughy is Lake Ogallala State Recreation Area, a small natural lake located at the eastern end of Lake Mcconaughy. Known for its birdwatching opportunities, scenic walking trails, and world-class sauger and walleye fishing, this recreation area is a perfect complement to a trip along the byway.
As one approaches Lake Mcconaughy, the path veers along various state wildlife management areas, interlacing together portions of human-made landforms and the inherent natural scenes of the region. Upon finishing the scenic drive and heading north towards Crawford or south towards Ogallala, tourists may take advantage of additional recreational activities, including exploring the scenic vistas along the Platte River.
The breathtaking views and the diverse displays of natural elements found along the Lake Mcconaughy Scenic Byway offer visitors an exceptional opportunity to familiarize themselves with Nebraska's geology and conservation efforts. With numerous stops, parks, and opportunities for outdoor recreation available along the route, this scenic byway offers endless options for travelers to experience and enjoy Nebraska's picturesque natural environment.
In 1999, the Lake Mcconaughy Scenic Byway received the National Scenic Byway designation from the United States Department of Transportation, marking this route among the top touring routes in the United States.
Lake Mcconaughy, the largest lake in Nebraska, covering approximately 35,700 acres, is a reservoir created by the Kingsley Dam on the Platte River near Ogallala, Nebraska. The byway predominantly follows US-26 and NE-61, two state highways that run parallel to the lake's shoreline. Visitors can experience the changing environment of the Sandhills region as the landscape transforms from rolling hills to badlands.
One of the primary attractions along Lake Mcconaughy Scenic Byway is the Wild Horse Viewing Area near Sunol. The area features a large viewing platform where visitors can observe a herd of wild horses that have roamed freely in the region for decades. This unique spectacle highlights Nebraska's equine heritage. For those who appreciate ancient history, the Martin Bay area features numerous Native American petroglyphs depicting animals and symbols, left behind by Native American tribes that once inhabited the region.
In addition to these cultural attractions, Lake Mcconaughy Scenic Byway is also home to various parks, recreational areas, and state wildlife management areas. Visitors can stop at parks like Martin Bay or Cedar Point to partake in water sports, fishing, or simple relaxation. Moreover, several state wildlife management areas provide venues for birdwatching, as over 200 species of birds have been spotted in the area.
From a geological perspective, Lake Mcconaughy Scenic Byway showcases the distinct transitions between various landforms in Nebraska. Observers will witness how the landscape of the Sandhills changes dramatically as the byway approaches the rugged formations of the North Platte Valley. A truly unique combination of flora, fauna, and geology can be observed when driving this scenic byway.
Further providing an appreciation for the natural landscapes around Lake Mcconaughy is Lake Ogallala State Recreation Area, a small natural lake located at the eastern end of Lake Mcconaughy. Known for its birdwatching opportunities, scenic walking trails, and world-class sauger and walleye fishing, this recreation area is a perfect complement to a trip along the byway.
As one approaches Lake Mcconaughy, the path veers along various state wildlife management areas, interlacing together portions of human-made landforms and the inherent natural scenes of the region. Upon finishing the scenic drive and heading north towards Crawford or south towards Ogallala, tourists may take advantage of additional recreational activities, including exploring the scenic vistas along the Platte River.
The breathtaking views and the diverse displays of natural elements found along the Lake Mcconaughy Scenic Byway offer visitors an exceptional opportunity to familiarize themselves with Nebraska's geology and conservation efforts. With numerous stops, parks, and opportunities for outdoor recreation available along the route, this scenic byway offers endless options for travelers to experience and enjoy Nebraska's picturesque natural environment.
In 1999, the Lake Mcconaughy Scenic Byway received the National Scenic Byway designation from the United States Department of Transportation, marking this route among the top touring routes in the United States.
