South Sioux City is the portal to two Nebraska Scenic Byways: the Lewis and Clark Scenic Byway and the Outlaw Trail.
In 1804, Meriwether Lewis and William Clark embarked on a journey that would become one of America's most fabled expeditions. Part of that adventure would take them up the Missouri River and along the eastern and northern border of present day Dakota County.
Today, you can travel that same pathway by taking the Lewis and Clark and Outlaw Trail Scenic Byways. They are pathways on which history and beauty happily collide to deliver an inspiring journey through time. The routes will take you through wooded bluffs that overlook the majestic Missouri River as it snakes its way through fertile farmland. Along the way, catch a glimpse of waterfowl and bison as they thrive on the area's natural resources. Share the path where trappers, traders and American Indians once lived and traveled. Discover a large bison herd roaming the grassy plains of the Winnebago Reservation.
Travel west on Highway 12 and discover a picturesque journey through breathtaking and diverse Nebraska landscapes. Known as ''Nebraska's Everglades," you'll marvel at the unusual biological diversity. Great vistas encompass clear blue sky and native stands of oak trees dot the skyline. Diverse geological features, such as vast, flat bottomlands and wetlands, give way to bluffs and the state's largest waterfall. View cottonwood forests, pine and cedar forests, open prairie, lush cropland and abundant wildlife.
Along the way, you'll find literally hundreds of entertaining stops of historical significance, with a wide variety of recreational, educational and just plain fun things to see and do.
Lewis and Clark Scenic Byway
The View - Wooded bluffs, open bottomlands, bountiful cropland and historic waterways.
The Adventure - Western history, American Indian culture, steamboat artifacts, and the first military post west of the Missouri River. From just north of Omaha to South Sioux City along U.S. Highway 75.
Outlaw Trail Scenic Byway
The View - Forested bluffs, winding rivers, Sandhills, grasslands, wetlands, high prairie lakes, waterfalls, and a national wildlife refuge.
The Adventure - Famous footsteps, world class canoeing, the state's tallest waterfall, wildlife viewing, state recreation areas, and fishing. From Willis, just west of South Sioux City to Valentine on Nebraska Highway 12.