# On the Oregon Trail in Nebraska

> 3-day road trip of about 793 km (493 mi) with 5 stops, from Omaha to Scotts Bluff National Monument. About 8 h 48 min of driving in total.

Source: https://camping-spirit.com/guides/oregon-trail/

**At a glance:** 3-day road trip of about 793 km (493 mi) with 5 stops, from Omaha to Scotts Bluff National Monument. About 8 h 48 min of driving in total. Following the pioneers along the North Platte to Chimney Rock and Scotts Bluff.

| | |
|---|---|
| Distance | 793 km (493 mi) |
| Driving | 8 h 48 min |
| Suggested days | 3 |
| Stops | 5 |
| Route | Omaha → Scotts Bluff National Monument |
| States | NE |
| Updated | June 18, 2026 |

## Route description

From Omaha, I-80 heads west along the Platte River, the route followed by the Oregon, California and Mormon trails. North Platte is home to Buffalo Bill’s ranch and the Golden Spike Tower, which overlooks Bailey Yard, one of the largest rail yards in the world. West of North Platte, leave the interstate and follow US-26 along the North Platte River.

The road passes Ash Hollow and the sandstone buttes of Courthouse and Jail Rocks before reaching Chimney Rock, a slender spire that pioneers mentioned in their diaries more than any other landmark. A visitor center near Bayard tells the story of the trail. You cannot climb the rock, but it can be seen for miles across the plains.

At Gering, Scotts Bluff National Monument rises above the river, with trail wagon ruts at its foot and a museum on the pioneers. The Summit Road climbs through three tunnels to the top, but long RVs and trailers are not allowed, so use the shuttle or hike up. The views from the top extend over the North Platte valley.

Summer is hot on the plains, with afternoon thunderstorms, while spring and fall are more pleasant. Distances between towns are long, so plan fuel stops. Look for the Oregon Trail markers along the road, which show where the old route runs.

## Stop-by-stop itinerary

1. **Omaha** (NE)
2. **North Platte** (NE)
3. **Chimney Rock** (Bayard, NE): A thin spire of rock that pioneers mentioned in their diaries more than any other landmark.
4. **Gering** (NE)
5. **Scotts Bluff National Monument** (Gering, NE): A landmark for Oregon Trail pioneers. Wagon ruts are still visible at the foot of the bluff.