The Transcontinental Land Bridge, situated within the Great Plains region of the United States, particularly in Nebraska, is a historical route that connected the East and West coasts of the country, facilitating westward expansion and travel. The concept of a transcontinental land bridge dates back to the 19th century when pioneers sought to traverse the vast expanse of the continent. In this regard, Nebraska's strategic location made it a critical component of the land bridge, as it formed a relatively flat and passable route through the region.

One notable example of the Transcontinental Land Bridge is the Oregon Trail, which spanned from Independence, Missouri to Oregon City, Oregon, with a significant portion passing through Nebraska. Established in the 1840s, the Oregon Trail became a primary route for pioneers seeking to settle in the western territories. The trail traversed the Sandhills region of Nebraska, an area known for its gentle slopes and rolling hills, making it an ideal route for covered wagons. Near modern-day North Platte, the Transcontinental Land Bridge converged with the South Platte River, a vital source of water and sustenance for travelers.

Another significant route within the Transcontinental Land Bridge is the Mormon Trail, established in the 1840s by members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as they migrated to Salt Lake City, Utah. This route generally paralleled the Oregon Trail, also passing through Nebraska's Sandhills region. A notable site along the Mormon Trail in Nebraska is Chimney Rock, a prominent rock formation located near modern-day Bayard. This unique landmark served as an important milestone for travelers, marking the approximate midpoint between the Missouri River and Fort Laramie.

The Great Platte River Road, another key component of the Transcontinental Land Bridge, traversed the central region of Nebraska. Established in the 1840s, this route followed the course of the Platte River, which offered a relatively flat and navigable path through the region. The Great Platte River Road was used by numerous trail routes, including the Oregon Trail, the Mormon Trail, and the California Trail. Near modern-day Grand Island, the Great Platte River Road converged with the Little Blue River, another vital source of water and sustenance for travelers.

While the Transcontinental Land Bridge played a pivotal role in the westward expansion of the United States, its significance extended beyond the 19th century. During World War II, the establishment of the Lincoln Army Airfield in eastern Nebraska served as a critical refueling stop for aircraft transporting soldiers and supplies to the West Coast. This strategic airfield was situated near the Transcontinental Land Bridge, allowing for a relatively direct and efficient transfer of personnel and equipment.

The construction of Interstate 80 in the 1950s and 1960s further solidified the importance of Nebraska as a transcontinental land bridge. Spanning from San Francisco, California to Teaneck, New Jersey, Interstate 80 followed the general course of the historic trail routes through the Great Plains. The highway's route through Nebraska greatly improved transportation efficiency and facilitated the movement of people and goods across the continent.

As a testament to its enduring significance, the Transcontinental Land Bridge has become an integral part of Nebraska's cultural heritage. In 2011, the U.S. 20 Highway Historic Byway was designated as the Mormon Trail Historic Byway, recognizing the important role that this route played in the state's history. Today, visitors can still explore remnants of the Transcontinental Land Bridge, including historic landmarks and reconstructed trail segments, as a means of connecting with Nebraska's rich pioneering past.