Discover Lincoln’s Scenic Walking Trails

by Sriyani Tidball 

Lincoln is home to a vibrant collection of scenic trails, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts of all types. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely walk or a more challenging hike, the city’s trails offer diverse experiences across lush woodlands, peaceful parks, and scenic waterways. Here’s a fresh guide to some of Lincoln’s most popular walking trails, ideal for every kind of explorer.

Wilderness Park Trails

If you’re yearning for a peaceful escape into nature, the Wilderness Park Trails are perfect. Spanning over 1,400 acres, just five miles south of downtown, this park offers more than 10 miles of winding paths through dense woodlands and beside gentle streams. Whether walking or cycling, the untouched beauty of this wilderness feels like a retreat from urban life. The popular Jamaica North Trail, with its crushed limestone surface, runs for 6.5 miles and is a favorite among locals.

Pioneers Park and Nature Center

Located nearby, Pioneers Park offers a wealth of natural beauty and is a must-visit for those who enjoy varied landscapes. Covering 668 acres, this park boasts tallgrass prairie, wetlands, woodlands, and a tranquil stream. For a deeper connection with nature, venture to the Pioneers Park Nature Center, where eight miles of hiking trails meander through diverse ecosystems. Recognized for its outstanding landscape architecture, this park has something for every nature lover.

Rock Island Trail

Running from A and 29th streets to Densmore Park, the Rock Island Trail offers a more immersive experience through heavily wooded areas. This trail is ideal for those looking for a longer, relaxing walk amid the serenity of nature.

Highlands Trail

If you prefer a more urban walk, the Highlands Trail offers a smooth, 3-mile loop in Lincoln’s Highlands neighborhood. This paved path connects the community while offering scenic views and easy access to the Nebraska Technology Park.

MoPac Trail

For a blend of suburban and rural walking, the MoPac Trail stretches from 84th Street and Hazelwood Drive out to Wabash, Nebraska. As a converted rail-to-trail project, it weaves through neighborhoods, wooded areas, and open fields, providing a peaceful retreat into the countryside.

Nine Mile Prairie

Just outside the city limits, the Nine Mile Prairie offers a glimpse of the untouched ecosystems that once dominated the central U.S. Located off Fletcher Avenue, this 200-acre prairie is home to a rich network of trails where hikers can explore and appreciate the beauty of tallgrass landscapes.

Helen Boosalis Trail

This urban gem spans nearly four miles, linking the Indian Village neighborhood to the Edgewood Shopping Center. Cyclists and pedestrians alike enjoy this trail, which connects residential areas with parks while offering glimpses of charming homes and gardens along the way.

University of Nebraska City Campus and Antelope Valley Project

Even if you aren’t a student, the University of Nebraska City Campus is a delightful place for a stroll. Explore the Torn Notebook sculpture by Claes Oldenburg or visit the Sheldon Art Gallery. From the campus, the Billy Wolff Trail takes you into the Antelope Valley Project, leading you through serene city gardens like the Sunken and Rose Gardens.

Haymarket Area

North of O Street, the historic Haymarket district is a fantastic place for a more urban walking experience. Stroll past the Salt Dogs’ stadium and Oak Lake, then explore the district’s art galleries, historic architecture, and top-tier dining options. For an added adventure, cross the pedestrian bridge at 8th Street to reach the nearby baseball stadium.

Holmes Lake

For those who enjoy lakeside views, Holmes Lake is the perfect spot. Located at 70th Street and Normal Boulevard, this 112-acre recreational area features fishing, boating, and walking paths. The 2.31-mile Holmes Lake Trail circles the water and connects seamlessly to the Billy Wolff Trail, offering beautiful wooded and lakeside views.

For more detailed trail maps and additional hiking options, check out the Great Plains Trail Network at www.gptn.org, or visit Lincoln’s Parks and Recreation website at www.lincoln.ne.gov.