10 Fun Things To Do Near Gering, Nebraska (Scotts Bluff County Travel Guide)
If you’re road-tripping across Nebraska or looking for a quiet getaway in the Great Plains,
Gering, Nebraska, in
Scotts Bluff County, is a surprisingly fun stop. This small town sits right along the historic Oregon Trail and is packed with wide-open views, local history, and classic small‑town charm.
Whether you’re planning a weekend visit or just passing through, here are
10 things to do in and around Gering that show off the best of western Nebraska.
1. See the Sunset at Scotts Bluff National Monument
If you do only one thing near Gering, make it
Scotts Bluff National Monument. This towering bluff has been a landmark for travelers for hundreds of years, from Native Americans to pioneers on the Oregon, California, and Mormon Trails.
- Drive the summit road with its short tunnels and stop at several overlooks.
- Walk the short trails on top for sweeping views of the North Platte River Valley.
- Visit the Oregon Trail Museum and Visitor Center at the base.
On a clear evening, the sunset from the top is gorgeous. The sky lights up in shades of orange and pink, and you can see for miles in every direction. It feels like standing on the edge of the prairie world.
2. Walk in the Wagon Ruts at the Scotts Bluff Oregon Trail Museum Area
Right near the base of the bluff, you can still see
original wagon ruts from the Oregon Trail. That alone makes Gering a pretty special place to visit.
Take the short, easy
Oregon Trail Pathway and look for:
- Deep tracks worn into the ground by pioneer wagons.
- Interpretive signs explaining life on the trail.
- Replica covered wagons that make great photo spots.
If you’ve ever imagined what it was like to cross the country in a wagon, this is where those daydreams suddenly feel a lot more real.
3. Hike the Saddle Rock Trail
If you like to stretch your legs, the
Saddle Rock Trail is one of the best hikes in western Nebraska. The trail starts near the visitor center and climbs about 1.6 miles one way to the top of Scotts Bluff.
What to expect:
- Steady uphill walk with a few switchbacks.
- A tunnel cut right through the rock.
- Big views the entire way up.
Wear comfy shoes and bring water, especially in summer. The hike is not super long, but the climb and warm temperatures can sneak up on you.
If you’re not up for walking back down, you can have someone meet you at the top with the car, or hike up and drive down. A lot of locals do it that way.
4. Stroll Through Downtown Gering
Downtown
Gering, NE is small but friendly, with that relaxed, classic Midwest feel. It’s the kind of place where folks still wave at each other across the street.
Take a little time to:
- Browse local shops for gifts, antiques, and Nebraska souvenirs.
- Grab a coffee, ice cream, or a simple diner meal.
- Check out seasonal decorations or small-town events on the main street.
If you’re driving across Nebraska, this is a nice break from the interstate—slow down, park, and walk a few blocks. You get a real sense of local life in Scotts Bluff County.
5. Enjoy the Views Along the North Platte River
The
North Platte River winds quietly near Gering and neighboring Scottsbluff. It’s not a wild whitewater river, but it’s peaceful and scenic—perfect for a laid-back afternoon.
Things to do along the river:
- Go for a short walk or bike ride on local river trails.
- Try a little fishing if you’ve got your gear and a Nebraska license.
- Pack a simple picnic and enjoy the wide‑open sky.
On calm evenings, the river glows with sunset colors, and you might spot birds gliding low over the water. It’s a reminder that western Nebraska is much more than just “flat land.”
6. Visit Legacy of the Plains Museum
Just outside Gering, the
Legacy of the Plains Museum is one of the best places to learn about life on the High Plains. If you’re into farming history, old tractors, or pioneer stories, this is a must‑see.
Highlights include:
- Historic farm machinery and tractors.
- Exhibits on irrigation, sugar beet farming, and local agriculture.
- Artifacts and stories from early settlers and Native communities.
You’ll come away with a better understanding of how people built lives here long before highways and GPS. It’s also a great family stop—kids tend to love the big equipment outside.
7. Cross the River to Explore Scottsbluff
Right next door to Gering, just across the river, is the city of
Scottsbluff. Since the two communities sit so close together, most visitors explore both on the same trip.
In Scottsbluff, you can:
- Find more restaurants and cafes with local flavor.
- Check out additional shops, galleries, and small businesses.
- Join local events, festivals, or farmers markets depending on the season.
Think of Gering and Scottsbluff as a twin‑city hub for western Nebraska travel. If you’re staying overnight, you’ll likely eat, shop, and explore on both sides of the river.
8. Hit the Trails at Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area
About 10–15 miles south of Gering, the
Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area feels a bit like a miniature mountain range rising out of the prairie. It’s a great day trip from town.
You can:
- Hike or mountain bike on rugged bluff and canyon trails.
- Watch for wildlife, including big‑horn sheep if you’re lucky.
- Stop at the Wildcat Hills Nature Center to learn about local plants and animals.
If you’re driving through Nebraska and you’ve been craving some elevation and rock formations, this area will surprise you. It doesn’t look like “typical Nebraska” at all.
9. Play a Round at a Local Golf Course
If you enjoy golf, the Gering–Scottsbluff area has a few
golf courses with pretty views of nearby bluffs and open sky. Playing a round here feels calm and unhurried—no big‑city rush.
Even if you’re not a pro, it can be a relaxing way to spend a morning or afternoon. Just check course websites or call ahead for tee times, especially during busy summer weekends.
10. Time Your Visit for a Local Event or Festival
Small‑town events can be some of the most memorable parts of a trip. Gering and Scottsbluff host
local festivals, parades, and fairs throughout the year that bring the whole community together.
Depending on the season, you might find:
- County fair fun with rides and livestock shows.
- Parades and fireworks around the Fourth of July.
- Fall events, harvest celebrations, or holiday light displays.
If your travel dates are flexible, it’s worth checking local tourism and city websites for upcoming events in
Scotts Bluff County. A regular weekend can turn into something special when you land in town during a celebration.
Planning Your Trip to Gering, Nebraska
Here are a few quick tips to make your visit smoother:
- Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall offers the warmest weather and clearest views.
- Getting around: You’ll want a car. Distances are short, but things are spread out.
- What to pack: Comfortable walking shoes, a light jacket (even summer nights can cool off), hat, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle.
If you’re driving across the state on I‑80, you can swing north to Gering and Scottsbluff for a side trip that adds some real character and scenery to your Nebraska experience.
Final Thoughts: Why Gering Deserves a Spot on Your Road Trip
Gering, Nebraska may not be the first place that pops into your head when you think of travel, but that’s part of its charm. You get:
- Big views at Scotts Bluff National Monument.
- Real history along the Oregon Trail.
- Quiet moments along the North Platte River.
- Friendly small‑town vibes in both Gering and Scottsbluff.
If you love road trips, open skies, and places that still feel authentic, Gering is worth a stop.
What About You?
Have you been to
Gering or
Scotts Bluff County? Do you have a favorite hike, viewpoint, or local restaurant in the area?
Share your experience in the comments below—your tips can help other travelers planning a Nebraska road trip.
And if you found this guide helpful, please
share it with a friend or in your favorite travel group. It might just inspire someone else to discover this quiet, beautiful corner of western Nebraska.
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