When we think of Nebraska, we don’t usually associate fearsome rattlesnakes. But this Midwestern state is home to three species of venomous rattlesnakes.green rattlesnake), timber rattlesnake (scary rattlesnake), and the western Massasauga (Cistralus tergeminus).
Prairie rattlesnakes are the most widespread, occurring throughout mixed grass and shortgrass grasslands in the western part of the state. Timber rattlesnakes are restricted to the wooded bluffs of the southeastern corner of Nebraska along the Missouri River. And the western massasauga is found in very small numbers in the moist, tall grass prairies and wetlands of the southeast. Whether you’re a hiker, camper, or just want to know where to look out, these are the places you’re most likely to encounter a rattlesnake in Nebraska.
mushroom geological park
Located in the northwest corner of Nebraska, about 18 miles north of Crawford, Mushroom Geological Park is located within the Oglala National Grassland and is prime habitat for rattlesnakes. Distinctive toadstool-like rock formations and fossilized animal tracks attract tourists, and prairie rattlesnakes can be seen migrating through the park in significant numbers during the summer heat.
For these venomous snakes, the park’s clay and sandstone formations are ideal hiding places, with an abundance of sun-warmed broken rocks and deep crevices that provide ideal hiding places and thermoregulation. Be careful when hiking here. In particularly cool weather, prairie rattlesnakes paw on exposed rocks or asphalt to stay warm.
Fort Robinson State Park
One of Nebraska’s largest state parks, Fort Robinson State Park was established in the Pine Ridge area of northwestern Nebraska, just two miles west of present-day Crawford. But for years, human history seems irrelevant to the park’s slimy residents, who are regularly spotted along hiking and biking trails that cut through grasslands, ponderosa pine forests, and rocky buttes, all prime habitat for prairie rattlesnakes.
Most sightings occur along the Wagon Wheel and Lover’s Leap Trail. This route is approximately 3 miles round trip and has just over 650 feet of elevation gain. Along the way, you’ll pass ponderosa pines and rocky outcrops where rattlesnakes bask, especially in the spring and early fall. The combination of dense grass, rock ledges, and prairie dog colonies is ideal habitat for prairie rattlesnakes, so visitors should stick to designated trails.
Scotts Bluff National Monument
If you didn’t know better, you’d be forgiven for thinking that Scotts Bluff National Monument in Gering is just as important a landmark for rattlesnakes as it is for humans. Rising 800 feet above the North Platte River in Nebraska’s western panhandle, the monument covers approximately 3,000 acres of weedy prairie. It surrounds the massive cliff formations that once guided immigrants westward in the 19th century.
Conditions here are ideal for prairie rattlesnakes to thrive. The population of prairie rattlesnakes is large enough here that park officials take their presence seriously. They are most often seen on the asphalt surfaces of the Saddle Rock Trail. There, these cold-blooded creatures stretch out in the morning and evening to absorb heat from paved trails.
Encounters have also been reported near the well-maintained lawns surrounding the visitor center, where prairie dogs (rattlesnakes’ favorite food) often inhabit. Rattlesnake warning signs are posted at the visitor center and along all trails.
Agate Fossil Beds National Monument
Just 35 miles south of Harrison, Agate Fossil Beds National Monument is another destination in the Nebraska Panhandle where you should be wary of rattlesnakes. Despite its remote location (the nearest gas station is more than 30 miles away and cell phone service is limited), it is one of the most important Miocene fossil sites on Earth, where paleontologists have discovered the complete skeleton of a previously unknown mammal.
Prairie rattlesnakes are common throughout the park, so there are many warnings posted at trailheads and trails. Rangers can also provide tips and tactics. It can also be found on the monument’s official website. Rattlesnakes here tend to hide in grass, under rocks, and in holes during hot weather, and may come out onto roads and trails to bask in the sun during cooler days, increasing your chances of encountering them. And given the monument’s remote location (the nearest hospital is an hour’s drive), snake bites may be more of a problem here.
Indian Cave State Park
Indian Cave State Park consists of more than 3,000 acres of rugged terrain along the Missouri River in the southeastern corner of Nebraska. A population of timber rattlesnakes has been identified here that is particularly fond of the Missouri River bluffs and the Indian Cave formation itself. Technically speaking, Indian Cave Park, a large sandstone overhang near the base of the bluff, protects prehistoric Native American petroglyphs that can be viewed from an accessible boardwalk with seating, information displays, and observation decks.
So what about that snake? Nebraska’s largest rattlesnake, the gray rattlesnake typically reaches 44 to 60 inches in length and is easily identified by its tan or golden body, black V-shaped bands, and distinctive reddish-brown dorsal stripes. However, their numbers are small and declining, so they are listed as an endangered species. Snake warning signs have been installed throughout the park, with signs warning hikers about gray rattlesnakes near their hibernating caves.
Stay safe in rattlesnake country
Nebraska is home to three species of rattlesnakes, and the good news is that they tend to avoid humans. Most bites occur from accidental contact or from handling or attempting to kill the snake. However, if you leave the snake alone and walk carefully, it will usually try to run away and sometimes make rattling noises to warn you to back up. Pay attention to that message. It’s probably okay. Even in the rare case of a bite, most people recover with prompt treatment. Anyone taking you to the hospital should be sure to drive carefully. Statistically, you are far more likely to die in a car accident than to be bitten by a rattlesnake.
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