Western Trails Scenic and Historic Byway
Places to Visit

  • Agate Fossil Beds National Monument

    Agate Fossil Beds National Monument (NE)

    In addition to the 19 million year old bones that can be seen at the fossil beds, you can view a collection of Native American artifacts.

    Distance from byway: On the byway
    Directions:

    NE

  • Ash Hollow State Historical Park (NE)

    Water and trees make this area a popular spot with visitors today, as well as an area of much needed rest for early pioneers.

    Distance from byway: On the byway
    Directions:

    Lewellen, NE

  • Bald Eagle Viewing Center (NE)

    Located below Lake McConaughy, you can view bald eagles and other birds in this and the surrounding areas.

    Distance from byway: On the byway
    Directions:

    near Ogallala, NE

  • Boot Hill (NE)

    This cemetery was the first in the area, and because cowboys are always buried with their boots on, this name stuck!

    Distance from byway: On the byway
    Directions:

    Ogallala

  • Chimney Rock National Historic Site (NE)

    This is one of the most recognized landmarks along the Oregon Trail.

    Distance from byway: On the byway
    Directions:

    near Bayard, NE

  • Court House and Jail Rocks (NE)

    These unusual geologic formations were landmarks located along the Oregon and Mormon Trails.

    Distance from byway: On the byway
    Directions:

    near Bridgeport, NE

  • Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge (NE)

    This wildlife refuge is a nesting and migratory bird refuge and has acres of land of natural prairie and small lakes.

    Distance from byway: On the byway
    Directions:

    NE

  • Front Street (NE)

    Front Street is a replica of what an old western town would have looked like-complete with museum, saloon, and restaurant.

    Distance from byway: On the byway
    Directions:

    Ogallala, NE

  • Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area (NE)

    This is Nebraska's largest reservoir and provides boat ramps, miles of beach, fishing, camping, and a host of other activities.

    Distance from byway: On the byway
    Directions:

    near Ogallala, NE

  • Lake Minatare State Recreation Area (NE)

    This 2,000 acre lake offers visitors a chance to go boating, fishing, or camping.

    Distance from byway: On the byway
    Directions:

    near Scottsbluff, NE