The Nature Trail at Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area loops through a striking landscape of ponderosa pine-covered sandstone bluffs and rocky draws in the Nebraska Panhandle, approximately 10 miles south of Scottsbluff on Highway 71. The trailhead is at the recreation area entrance at 210679 Hwy 71, Gering, Nebraska. A Nebraska State Parks entry permit is required for vehicle access and is available at the park entrance or online.
The loop covers 2.5 miles with approximately 200 feet (61 meters) of elevation gain, navigating terrain that feels dramatically different from the surrounding High Plains. The bluffs are capped with ponderosa pine — a forest type more typical of the Black Hills of South Dakota than the Nebraska plains — and the rocky ledges and canyon draws provide habitat for mule deer, wild turkey, and pronghorn antelope. Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep were reintroduced to the area and are occasionally observed on the clifftops from the trail.
The surface is primarily rocky dirt and exposed sandstone ledges in the upper sections, with shaded canyon bottoms under pine and juniper canopy in the lower portions. The trail winds between boulders and along narrow ridge edges before descending back through canyon shade. Interpretive signs describe the geology and ecology of this rare ponderosa pine island ecosystem perched above the surrounding short-grass prairie.
The Wildcat Hills Nature Center is located adjacent to the trailhead and staffed by Nebraska Game and Parks personnel who can provide trail maps and recent wildlife sighting information. Water and restrooms are available at the nature center. The rocky terrain requires sturdy footwear with ankle support; sandals and road shoes are not recommended for the upper ledge sections. Binoculars significantly enhance the wildlife and landscape experience from the ridgeline viewpoints, which extend north toward Scotts Bluff National Monument.
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Gering, Nebraska
- Best season
- April-October
What to bring
- Water
- Binoculars (wildlife excellent here)
Location
210679 Hwy 71, Gering, NE 69341
41.7589, -103.6556 View on map
Highlights
- Ponderosa pine and juniper bluff ecosystem rare in Nebraska, with ridgeline views north to Scotts Bluff National Monument
- Reintroduced Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep occasionally visible on the rocky clifftops from the trail
- Wildlife corridor for mule deer, wild turkey, and pronghorn antelope among the sandstone bluffs
- Wildcat Hills Nature Center at the trailhead with wildlife exhibits, maps, and knowledgeable park staff
- Excellent birdwatching for ponderosa pine specialists including pinyon jays and white-breasted nuthatches
Tips for visiting
- Bring binoculars — bighorn sheep and pronghorn antelope are most reliably spotted from the upper ridgeline with magnification
- Wear sturdy footwear with ankle support; the exposed sandstone ledge sections are uneven and can be slick after rain
- Stop at the Wildcat Hills Nature Center before hiking for current wildlife sighting locations from park staff
- Early morning hours offer the best wildlife activity and cooler temperatures on the exposed ridgeline in summer
- The Wildcat Hills Recreation Area is approximately 10 miles from Scotts Bluff National Monument on Hwy 71 — both sites combine well in a single day
When to visit
April through October offers the best conditions; spring and fall avoid the heat of exposed summer ridgelines. Early morning visits maximize wildlife sighting opportunities, particularly for bighorn sheep and pronghorn on the upper bluffs.
Accessibility
The Nature Trail involves rocky, uneven sandstone surfaces and elevation change — it is not accessible by wheelchair or stroller. The Wildcat Hills Nature Center adjacent to the trailhead is accessible, with paved parking and accessible restrooms available for visitors with mobility limitations who cannot hike the trail.
Frequently asked questions
Are bighorn sheep commonly seen on the trail?
Bighorn sheep were reintroduced to the Wildcat Hills and are occasionally spotted on the rocky clifftops, though sightings are not guaranteed. Early morning visits and stopping at the Nature Center to ask staff about recent locations improve the odds.
Is there a fee to use the Nature Trail?
A Nebraska State Parks vehicle entry permit is required. Annual and day-use passes are available at the park or online. The Wildcat Hills Nature Center itself is free to enter.
How difficult is the Nature Trail?
The 2.5-mile loop is rated easy overall but involves rocky, uneven sandstone ledge sections in the upper portions. Sturdy footwear with ankle support is strongly recommended despite the modest elevation gain.
Can the Wildcat Hills trail be combined with Scotts Bluff?
Yes — Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area is approximately 10 miles south of Scotts Bluff National Monument on Highway 71, making a same-day combination very feasible. Both sites together offer a rewarding half-day or full-day itinerary in the Nebraska Panhandle.
Is the trail pet-friendly?
Dogs are permitted on the trail on a leash of 6 feet or less. The rocky terrain is manageable for most dogs, though the sandstone ledge sections can challenge small breeds.