US20 In Nebraska: Bridges to Buttes Byway

As US Route 20 heads westward in Nebraska, there is a 197-mile stretch between Valentine Nebraska and the border of Wyoming that is called the “Bridges to Buttes Byway.” This drive includes various terrains, from rolling sand hills, prairies, pine bluffs, and plateaus.

The Sandhills are on the eastern end, and this is the largest grass-covered stabilized sand dune formation in the Western Hemisphere. The area is ideal for ranching. As US 20 moves west, the topography changes to valleys and pine bluffs and buttes, which includes the Nebraska National Forest. Farther west is a large prairie at the Oglala National Grassland, and the Agate Fossil Beds National Monument.

There is so much to see and experience in this stretch of US Route 20. Here are two short videos that highlight some of the beauty of the Nebraska’s Bridges to Buttes Byway.


Bridges to Buttes By Way 2009 Podcast




Bridges and Buttes Byway Info Video






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US 20 In Nebraska: Fort Robinson State Park

Sitting in the northwest corner of Nebraska, about three miles west of Crawford Nebraska along US Route 20 is Fort Robinson State Park. It began in 1874 as a military outpost, serving as a temporary cantonment during the turmoil of the frontier Indian Wars, and continued to serve as an outpost until shortly after World War II. During this time and afterwards, it continued to expand in area, eventually becoming one of the largest military installations on the northern Plains. It is known for being the site of the 1879 Cheyenne Outbreak, and for the death of famed Sioux Chief Crazy Horse.


The area now serves as one of Nebraska’s best state parks, covering 22,00 acres. There are plenty of outdoor activities for everyone to enjoy: hiking, camping, horseback riding, train and stagecoach rides, and fishing, plus many other outdoor activities. There is also a lodge, along with some cabins, for those not wanting to “rough it” outdoors.

The park also includes the Fort Robinson Museum which is operated by the State Historical Society which covers the rich history of the fort. The Trailside Museum of Natural History,which is operated by the University of Nebraska, explains the geology and natural history of the region.



Links for Further Information:

Fort Robinson State Park

The Trailside Museum of Natural History

The Fort Robinson Museum




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