Cities and Towns in Scotts Bluff County, Nebraska

Founded in 1888, Scotts Bluff County is one of 93 counties in the state of Nebraska. Historically, Scotts Bluff County was formed from Cheyenne County. The city of Gering is the county seat. With FIPS code of 157, Scotts Bluff County has a population of 35,745 and area of 739 square miles (1,914 km²).

List of all cities in Scotts Bluff County, NE alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Gering, NE	69341	308
Haig, NE	69357	308
Henry, NE	69358	308
Lyman, NE	69352	308
Mc Grew, NE	69353	308
McGrew, NE	69353	308
Melbeta, NE	69355	308
Minatare, NE	69356	308
Mitchell, NE	69357	308
Morrill, NE	69358	308
Scottsbluff, NE	69361	308
	69363	308
Stegall, NE	69358	308
Terrytown, NE	69341	308

Major Cities and Towns in Scotts Bluff County, Nebraska

Scottsbluff

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:

• Area: 4.77 square miles
• Population: 15,000+ (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 69361
• Latitude: 41.8697° N
• Longitude: 103.6697° W

Location and History:

Scottsbluff, the county seat of Scotts Bluff County, is located in the western part of Nebraska, near the Wyoming border and approximately 85 miles from the Colorado state line. The city was named after Scotts Bluff, a prominent rock formation that was a well-known landmark for travelers on the Oregon Trail in the 19th century. The bluff itself, which towers 800 feet above the surrounding valley, became a key reference point for pioneers heading westward. The settlement of Scottsbluff began in the early 1880s, when the railroad expanded westward and established a station at the site. The city quickly became a center for trade, agriculture, and transportation, as it was strategically located along the railroad route. Over time, Scottsbluff’s economy diversified, with industries like agriculture, food processing, and tourism contributing to its growth. Today, Scottsbluff serves as the regional hub for business, healthcare, and education for the surrounding rural communities.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Scottsbluff is home to several educational institutions, including Scottsbluff High School, part of the Scottsbluff Public Schools district. The district is known for its strong academic performance, as well as its involvement in sports, music, and other extracurricular activities. The city is also home to Western Nebraska Community College, which offers a wide variety of programs, including associate degrees and vocational certifications. Key landmarks in Scottsbluff include the Scotts Bluff National Monument, a dramatic rock formation that holds historical significance as part of the Oregon Trail. The monument is now a National Park and offers visitors hiking trails, historical exhibits, and panoramic views of the surrounding plains. Other notable landmarks include the Riverside Discovery Center, a zoo and nature park, and the Legacy of the Plains Museum, which preserves the area’s agricultural and pioneer history. The city’s downtown area is home to historic buildings and businesses, as well as several parks and recreation areas, including the popular Westmoor Park, which provides space for outdoor events and family activities.

Gering

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:

• Area: 7.52 square miles
• Population: 8,500+ (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 69341
• Latitude: 41.8291° N
• Longitude: 103.6650° W

Location and History:

Gering is located immediately to the south of Scottsbluff, forming part of the Scottsbluff-Gering metropolitan area in western Nebraska. It is situated along the banks of the North Platte River and near the base of the iconic Scotts Bluff National Monument. Originally settled in the late 1800s, Gering was established as a ranching and agricultural community. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s spurred the town’s growth and development. Gering became a major center for farming and livestock, especially irrigated crops like sugar beets, corn, and wheat. Over the years, the town grew in size and developed a strong sense of community, with many families continuing to work in the agricultural industry. Today, Gering is a small but thriving city, with its economy still closely tied to farming and agriculture, though it has diversified into manufacturing, healthcare, and retail. The city’s proximity to Scottsbluff makes it a natural complement to the region, with both towns benefiting from their shared infrastructure and resources.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Gering is served by the Gering Public Schools district, which includes Gering High School, a well-regarded institution known for its strong academic programs and competitive sports teams. The district also provides opportunities in music, arts, and other extracurricular activities. Gering is also home to the Gering Civic Center, a popular venue for events, conferences, and community gatherings. One of the city’s most notable landmarks is the Scotts Bluff National Monument, which is located on the western edge of Gering and offers hiking trails, historical exhibits, and scenic views of the surrounding landscape. The monument commemorates the pioneering spirit of those who traveled the Oregon Trail. Gering’s downtown area features a mix of historic and modern buildings, including the historic Gering Hotel, and is home to several shops, restaurants, and businesses. The Gering Park System includes a variety of parks and outdoor spaces, such as the Gering Park, which hosts local festivals and community events. Nearby recreational opportunities include fishing, boating, and hiking in the surrounding bluffs and along the North Platte River.

Mitchell

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:

• Area: 0.56 square miles
• Population: 1,500+ (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 69357
• Latitude: 41.9304° N
• Longitude: 103.6870° W

Location and History:

Mitchell is located just to the east of Scottsbluff, along the North Platte River, and is part of the Scottsbluff-Gering metropolitan area. The town was founded in 1887 and named after an early settler, Samuel Mitchell. Mitchell’s early economy was based on agriculture, particularly farming, and it benefited from its location along the railroad. The town grew as a service center for the surrounding farming community and became known for its production of crops such as sugar beets, corn, and wheat. Over time, Mitchell developed into a small but significant town with a close-knit community. The town is located in the heart of the agricultural region of Scotts Bluff County, and its economy continues to be heavily influenced by farming, though small businesses and local retail also play important roles. The town’s population has remained relatively stable in recent years, and it retains its rural character while offering modern amenities to residents.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Mitchell is served by the Mitchell Public Schools district, which includes Mitchell High School. The district is well-known for its strong academic programs, as well as its sports teams and extracurricular offerings. The town is home to a variety of parks and recreational areas, including the Mitchell City Park, which provides picnic areas, playgrounds, and sports facilities. One of the most significant landmarks in Mitchell is the Oregon Trail Wagon Train, a monument dedicated to the town’s connection to the historic Oregon Trail. This monument commemorates the pioneers who traveled through the area on their westward journey. The Mitchell Park, located near the center of town, is another popular destination for residents, offering a playground, walking paths, and space for outdoor events. Additionally, Mitchell hosts local events like the Mitchell Harvest Festival, celebrating the region’s agricultural heritage and community spirit. The town is also close to several state parks and outdoor recreational opportunities, making it an attractive location for nature lovers and those who enjoy outdoor activities.

Lyman

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:

• Area: 0.46 square miles
• Population: 200+ (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 69352
• Latitude: 41.8296° N
• Longitude: 103.6947° W

Location and History:

Lyman is a small village located in the southwestern part of Scotts Bluff County, just to the south of Mitchell. It is situated along the North Platte River and is part of the Scottsbluff-Gering metropolitan area. Lyman was established in the early 1900s and served as a rural agricultural community, with its economy based on farming and livestock. The town’s development was tied to the expansion of the railroad and its role as a shipping center for local farmers. While Lyman remains a small village, it has retained its rural charm and agricultural roots. The town has a strong sense of community, with many residents involved in local farming and agricultural enterprises. Over the years, Lyman has seen a gradual decline in population, though it remains a close-knit town that prides itself on its quiet, rural lifestyle.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Lyman is part of the Mitchell Public Schools district, with students attending schools in nearby Mitchell. Although the village itself does not have its own school, residents benefit from the district’s strong academic performance and extracurricular opportunities. The town is known for its peaceful atmosphere and strong community spirit. Major landmarks include the Lyman City Park, which features picnic areas and open spaces for outdoor activities. While Lyman is small, it is within driving distance of many attractions in nearby Scottsbluff and Gering, including the Scotts Bluff National Monument and local parks. The town also hosts community events, including holiday celebrations and small fairs, which contribute to its strong community identity. Although Lyman remains a rural town, its close proximity to larger cities like Scottsbluff makes it an attractive option for those seeking a quieter way of life while still being close to urban amenities.