Hiking is a relaxing activity that tends to take you away from all of your worries, both literally and figuratively. Nebraska has so many hiking trails that you’ll be spoiled for choice when you go looking for a new favorite. There’s one, though, that we keep going back to over and over.

Hiking through Platte River State Park - halfway between Omaha and Lincoln, just outside of Louisville and just down the road from Mahoney State Park - can be like escaping into another world.
AllTrails/James Elliott
Platte River State Park tends to be a little quieter and less crowded than Mahoney. If you go on a weekday, you can sometimes even have the trails to yourself. The paths can get very muddy after rain or snowmelt, so be sure to wear sturdy shoes.
AllTrails/Tonya S
There are various trails amounting to about five miles total. You can stroll through wide-open areas and through stretches where you'll be entirely surrounded by the woods.
AllTrails/Tonya S
You may even feel a bit like you're in a fairytale world, walking toward some kind of treasure at the end.
AllTrails/James Elliott

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Indeed, you'll pass many delightful sights that will make you forget all about the everyday world.
Alltrails/Allison Berube
Follow the sound of running water and...
AllTrails/Tonya S
...you'll reach the beautiful Stone Creek Falls, one of Nebraska's most-photographed waterfalls. It's the perfect reward for your hiking efforts, especially when the water is flowing strong. You can even walk and splash in the shallow pool at the base of the falls!
AllTrails/Tonya S
And if you're willing to do a bit of "vertical hiking" (climbing stairs), you can venture up to the top of the tall observation tower for an unrivaled view of the Platte River Basin.
AllTrails/James Elliott

This beautiful wooded park really comes to life in the spring and summer, but it’s just as enchanting in autumn and winter. No matter when you visit, you’re sure to fall in love with this stunning landscape. Be aware that the trails are also popular with mountain bikers, so you may have to share the trails at times.

Have you hiked at Platte River State Park? We’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments!

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