Wildcat Hills Ridge Road
WPA ridge trail with Scotts Bluff panoramas
The old Wildcat Hills Ridge Road climbs through some of Nebraska’s most surprising terrain, where sandstone escarpments and pine-covered ridges break up the endless prairie. Built by the Works Progress Administration in the 1930s as a fire access route, this rocky two-track winds along the crest of the Wildcat Hills between Gering and Morrill, offering commanding views of Scotts Bluff and the North Platte River valley. The trail crosses several deep draws and climbs over exposed sandstone ledges that’ll test your line choice and articulation.
Rated moderate due to loose rock sections and a few technical climbs over sandstone shelves, but doable in any stock 4WD with decent ground clearance. Spring and fall offer the best conditions before summer heat and winter ice make the exposed ridge treacherous. No permits required, but this is day-use only with no camping allowed. The 12-mile route rewards drivers with some of the best overlooks in western Nebraska and a taste of genuine backcountry just minutes from Highway 71.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Backcountry |
| Surface | Rock |
| Features | Historic, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 12 mi / 19.3 km |
| Duration | Half day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 4200 ft |
| Best season | April-October |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock 4WD high-clearance |
| Nearest town | Gering, Nebraska |
| Land manager | Nebraska National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | No |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock 4Runner handle the sandstone sections on this trail?
Yes, any stock 4WD with decent clearance will work fine. The sandstone is grippy and the technical sections are short, though you'll want to pick your line carefully through the rougher spots.
Is Wildcat Hills Ridge Road passable in winter?
Trail is technically open year-round but not recommended November through March due to snow, ice, and muddy conditions. April through October offers the best access and weather.
Do I need permits to drive Wildcat Hills Ridge Road?
No permits required. It's managed by Nebraska National Forest and free to access, though standard forest service rules apply for camping and dispersed use.
What's the hardest part of this trail?
The steepest sandstone climbs on the ridge sections can be tricky when wet, and some tight turns require careful navigation. Overall it's more about picking good lines than raw difficulty.
How's cell service for emergency communication out there?
Spotty at best throughout most of the trail. You might catch signal on some ridge tops, but plan on being out of contact for the majority of the route.