My first visits to Scotts Bluff National Monument came on field trips when I was in high school and college. On each of those trips the Monument was just a side trip on our way to explore for fossils or study the local geology in western Nebraska and South Dakota.

But I have fond memories of hiking up the lone trail to the top, and riding down the paved road to the bottom with those who were not ambitious enough to make the climb.

It's not a large Monument, but has great historical significance for those interested in the westward passage of the pioneers along the Oregon, Mormon, and California Trails. The bluff was a prominent feature along their trek and once they reached this location they knew they would be entering the mountains soon.

I don't believe that there is any sort of camping within the Monument, but there is camping available at the Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area and near the small towns nearby.

5:28 p.m.
We had driven from Utah, and crossed Wyoming, with plans to stay in Scottsbluff, Nebraska for the night. It had been a while since I'd seen the Monument, and wanted to hike the trail with Anne and take some fresh photos. On the way, we made a quick stop at Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area, just a bit to the south. From there we continued north into Gering and Scottsbluff National Monument. Aware that it was late in the day, we figured that the Visitor Center would probably be closed (it closes at 4:30 p.m. at this time of the year), but assumed that the road to the top would be open until sunset. However, much to our dismay, the road closes at 5:00 p.m. after Labor Day. We considered making the 1.6 mile hike to the top, but we were both tired from riding and because of the late hour decided to skip the adventure. We did take a few photos from below, and then headed into town to locate our motel. We'll have to stop again on some other trip.