Robidoux Pass facts for kids
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Robidoux Pass
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Countryside in the pass
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 Location in Nebraska
Location in the United States
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| Nearest city | Gering, Nebraska |
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| Built | 1848 |
| NRHP reference No. | 66000450 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | October 15, 1966 |
| Designated NHL | January 20, 1961 |
Robidoux Pass is a natural opening, like a low spot, in the Wildcat Hills in Nebraska. It's located near Scottsbluff, Nebraska, about 9 miles (14 km) west of Gering, Nebraska. This pass was super important for thousands of pioneers traveling west in the 1840s.
It's also known by other names like Roubadeau Pass or Roubidoux Pass. The pass sits at an elevation of about 4,554 feet (1,388 meters) above sea level. Because of its historical importance, Robidoux Pass is now a National Historic Landmark.
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What is Robidoux Pass?
Robidoux Pass is a special kind of landform called a "gap." Think of it as a natural pathway through hills or mountains. This gap allowed early travelers to cross the Wildcat Hills more easily. It was a key part of the Great Platte River Road, which was a major route for pioneers heading west.
Why was it important for pioneers?
From 1843 to 1851, thousands of people used Robidoux Pass. These brave travelers, called "emigrants," were moving west to find new homes and opportunities. They often followed trails like the famous Oregon Trail.
The pass was a vital shortcut because a large rock formation called Scotts Bluff blocked wagons from traveling along the south side of the North Platte River. This forced pioneers to go south and use Robidoux Pass to get around the obstacle.
The Robidoux Family Trading Post
The pass is named after members of the Robidoux family, possibly Antoine Robidoux or Joseph E. Robidoux. In the 1840s, they ran a trading post nearby. A trading post was like a general store and rest stop for travelers.
What was at the trading post?
The Robidoux trading post offered many things pioneers needed. It had a blacksmith shop, where people could get their wagon wheels or tools repaired. There were also shops that sold other goods and supplies. This made the pass a busy and important stop on the journey west.
How the Route Changed
Robidoux Pass was the main route for pioneers for several years. However, in 1850, a new, shorter path was discovered. This new route, called Mitchell Pass, was much closer to the North Platte River.
Mitchell Pass made the journey easier because it cut out an eight-mile detour that pioneers had to take through Robidoux Pass. After 1850, most travelers started using Mitchell Pass instead.
Robidoux Pass Today
Today, a local road called Robidoux Road goes through the historic gap. You can find Robidoux Pass south of Scotts Bluff National Monument. It's about 4.5 miles (7.2 km) south and 8 miles (13 km) west of Gering, Nebraska. You can reach it by taking Robidoux Road off Nebraska Highway 71.
In 1961, Robidoux Pass was recognized as a National Historic Landmark. This means it's a very special place that helps us remember an important part of American history.
