Lewis & Clark Scenic Byway in Nebraska
In 1804, the intrepid duo of Meriwether Lewis and William Clark embarked on their now-legendary expedition into the American West. Their exploration of Nebraska, a pivotal segment of their journey, saw them meticulously tracing the course of the Missouri River as it meandered through the state’s northeastern reaches. Today, Nebraska proudly commemorates this historical voyage with the Lewis & Clark Scenic Byway, a testament to the enduring legacy of these explorers.
This byway, a 67-mile stretch of history and natural beauty, commences just south of Blair, Nebraska, and extends northward along Highway 75 until it reaches South Sioux City. The road itself acts as a companion to the Missouri River, a waterway that has witnessed the passage of countless generations, from Native American tribes and hardy trappers to ambitious traders, each leaving their indelible mark upon the land. As you traverse this route, you are not merely driving; you are retracing the steps of history.
The Lewis & Clark Scenic Byway offers a sensory feast for the traveler. The landscape unfolds in a tapestry of diverse ecosystems, encompassing serene lakes, rushing rivers, and densely wooded areas. Majestic river bluffs rise dramatically from the water’s edge, providing panoramic vistas. The byway also provides access to the cultural heritage of the region, bordering two Native American Reservations and showcasing some of Nebraska’s oldest settlements.
While the official beginning of the Lewis & Clark Scenic Byway is south of Blair, consider starting your journey a little further south, in the vibrant city of Omaha, approximately 25 miles away. This extension transforms the byway into a full-day excursion filled with both historical insights and contemporary attractions.
Omaha presents a rich tapestry of experiences. Begin at Fort Omaha, located at 30th and Fort Streets, which served as the army headquarters during the tumultuous wars against the Plains Indians. It was also the residence of the distinguished General George Crook. Immerse yourself in the city’s cultural offerings by exploring its diverse museums, including the Durham Western Heritage Museum, the Great Plains Black History Museum, and the Joslyn Art Museum. For a taste of Omaha’s culinary and entertainment scene, a visit to Lewis and Clark Landing is a must. And of course, no trip to Omaha is complete without a stop at Father Flanagan’s Boys Town, founded by Edward J. Flanagan to provide guidance and support for troubled youth, immortalized in the classic 1938 film "Boys Town." This adds depth to your journey along the Lewis & Clark Scenic Byway.
Continuing north on Highway 75, keep an eye out for signs pointing westward to Fort Atkinson State Historical Park. This site holds immense historical significance as the location where Lewis and Clark held council with Native American tribes at what they termed "Council Bluff," predating the construction of the fort. Fort Atkinson, established in 1820, was the first and largest military outpost west of the Missouri River, housing a garrison of around 1,000 soldiers. It quickly evolved into a vital hub for the fur trade, facilitating access to the Upper Missouri River region and the Rocky Mountains. However, by 1827, the fort was abandoned as military focus shifted southward.
A short distance from Fort Atkinson lies the Boyer Chute National Wildlife Refuge, a sprawling 3,200-acre preserve located west of the Missouri River. This refuge offers a haven for nature enthusiasts, with a variety of activities such as hiking, picnicking, biking, fishing, canoeing, and bird watching. The refuge stands as a reminder of the natural beauty that captivated Lewis and Clark on their expedition.
Just five miles east of Blair, along U.S. Highway 30, you will find the DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge. This refuge is renowned for its spectacular displays of migrating ducks and geese, particularly during the fall and spring seasons. Situated in the Missouri River Valley, it also provides habitat for a diverse array of wildlife, including deer, cottontails, raccoons, coyotes, and fox squirrels.
The DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge features a network of trails that allow visitors to fully appreciate the area’s diverse plant and animal life. In addition to its natural attractions, the refuge holds a unique historical treasure: the partially submerged hull of the 178-foot steamboat Bertrand, along with over 200,000 artifacts recovered from the 1865-era vessel. The Bertrand, a sternwheeler, sank in the Missouri River while en route to deliver mining supplies to Montana. Fishing and boating opportunities are also available within the refuge. In Blair itself, you can visit Black Elk/Neihardt Park, also known as the Home of The Four Winds, a memorial dedicated to Black Elk, a Lakota Sioux chief, and John G. Neihardt, a writer who documented Black Elk’s life and spiritual teachings.
Within Black Elk/Neihardt Park, the Tower of Four Winds serves as a focal point. Standing 45 feet tall, it features a large cross adorned with a mosaic composed of approximately 50,000 individual pieces. The mosaic depicts a messiah figure with outstretched arms, and smaller mosaics are scattered throughout the park. This monument stands as a symbol of Black Elk’s vision of peace and unity for all people. The park is located at College Drive and 32nd Street in Blair.
Continuing along the Lewis & Clark Scenic Byway to Tekamah, you’ll discover a wealth of historic sites within the town, including the Tekamah City Bridge, the John Henry Stork Log House, the E. C. Houston House, and the Spielman House, owned by Delmar and Elaine Chamberlain. The Burt County Museum is housed in the E.C. Houston House.
The Burt County Museum provides a glimpse into the past with its one-room schoolhouse and a 1908 house on the museum grounds. For outdoor recreation, visit the Pelican Point Recreation Area and Summit Lake State Recreation Area. Pelican Point State Recreation Area offers a boat ramp providing access to the Missouri River, as well as picnic areas, fishing opportunities, and camping facilities. Summit Lake State Recreation Area provides opportunities for camping, hiking, boating, fishing, swimming, and picnicking.
North of Tekamah, along the byway, lies the Omaha Indian Reservation. According to tribal oral tradition, the Missouri River marks the area where the Omaha people first settled, and they have maintained a presence in the region for over 400 years. Each August, the tribe hosts a Harvest Festival Pow Wow in Macy.
West of Winnebago, the Winnebago Indian Reservation hosts an Annual Homecoming Pow Wow each July. This event celebrates the return of Little Priest, the tribe’s last great war chief, along with 75 of his warriors.
The Winnebago Pow Wow is a vibrant display of colorful clothing, captivating singing, and traditional dancing, all in honor of Little Priest, who was imprisoned in South Dakota with his warriors after the Winnebago tribe was displaced from their ancestral lands in Minnesota and forced to relocate to South Dakota and later Nebraska. Today, the tribe actively promotes tourism and has established a large bison herd and a visitors center where guests can learn about the cultural significance of bison to Plains tribal cultures.
As you approach South Sioux City, you will encounter Sergeant Floyd Monument Park, dedicated to Sergeant Charles Floyd, a volunteer engineer and U.S. soldier who accompanied the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Floyd joined the Army in Kentucky in 1803 and participated in the expedition through Council Bluffs. In August, he fell ill, likely due to a ruptured appendix. He died on August 20, 1804, and was buried with a cedar post marking his grave. Due to its proximity to the Missouri River, erosion gradually washed away much of his grave.
Local citizens recovered many of Floyd’s remains and reinterred them 200 yards east of the original burial site. The 100-foot-high obelisk monument was completed in 1901 and was designated as the first National Historic Landmark in 1960. Floyd remains the only U.S. soldier to have died during the Lewis and Clark Expedition.
South Sioux City, once known as the "wildest little town on the Missouri" during the Frontier Days, has evolved into a modern metropolitan area while retaining its small-town charm. Crystal Cove, located along the Missouri River, features a boat ramp for fishing boats, a swimming beach, a picnic area, and a paved walking trail. The city boasts several historic buildings, including the Meisch House, built in 1888, an example of the "square" or "cubic" house style. The Emmanuel Lutheran Church holds the distinction of being the first Lutheran Church built in the Nebraska Territory. The O’Connor House is a historic two-story brick home constructed by Captain Cornelius O’Connor for his wife and eight children.
Although the Lewis & Clark Scenic Byway officially ends in South Sioux City, those seeking further scenic adventures can explore the nearby Outlaw Trail Byway, which begins in South Sioux City and traverses the landscapes of the Old West, ultimately reaching Valentine along Nebraska Highway 12.
Enjoy your exploration of the Lewis & Clark Scenic Byway, a journey that allows you to connect with the past and experience the landscapes once traversed by trappers, traders, and Native American tribes.