We have an abundance of lovely hiking trails in Nebraska, and it’s always a treat when you get to see a waterfall on a hike. There’s nothing like the refreshing sight and sound of natural, flowing water. They’re beautiful, no matter how large or small they may be. If you’d like to see a pretty little waterfall on a splendid hike, check out the Fort Falls Trail in Valentine, Nebraska.
Fort Falls Trail is an easy loop trail that’s just under a mile on the outskirts of Valentine, Nebraska.
Various plant species including wildflowers are on display here making it a wonder that it’s not more popular.
Have you ever hiked the Fort Falls Trail in Valentine? Do you have any favorite places to see waterfalls in Nebraska? Let us know in the comments. If you’d like to see more waterfalls and hiking trails in Nebraska, make your way to these fantastic falls:
In a state where being outdoors is one of our favorite pastimes, there's nothing better than one of the most beautiful and best hikes in Nebraska to get us excited to put on our walking shoes. This unique hike will take you between two small towns and through some of Nebraska's prettiest undeveloped scenery. Let's explore the Dark Island Trail in Nebraska.
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Dark Island Trail is a 10-mile mixed-use trail connecting Central City to Marquette. It was made possible by the hard work of volunteers and locals who donated time, money, and effort.
This is a rails-to-trails project, meaning that the route was once used to carry trains but has been converted into a walking trail. The former Republican Valley Railroad has been transformed into one of Nebraska's most beautiful and underrated trails.
While you're walking, take some time to connect with nature and feel the life all around you. Although both ends of the trail are in populated areas, the bulk of the hike runs through more rural, wild areas.
Watch for wildlife like rabbits, raccoons, and deer, which are also known to frequent this tranquil trail. If you walk it in the spring and summer, you'll also see bursts of color in the form of wildflowers that blanket the sides of the trail.
Today, one of the trail's treasures is Bader Bridge, a 1,072-foot (0.2-mile) span that was originally built by the Republican Valley Railroad in the 1880s to carry trains across the river.
After the trail was overhauled to turn the railroad bridge into a walking trail, it became a central point on the route - and the views from the bridge are worth a visit, even in the winter.
Walkers and joggers aren't the only ones who get to enjoy this lovely trail. Dark Island Trail is also the site of the annual Dark Island Half-Marathon and Relay, and bikers love the varied surfaces that range from flat and even to wooden plants to thick gravel.
Next to visiting for yourself, there's no better way to enjoy the beauty of this place than by watching this drone video that shows off some of the sights.
Have you ever walked or run the Dark Island Trail, one of the best hikes in Nebraska, between Central City and Marquette? Share your experiences in the comments!
What's your favorite hike in Nebraska? If you know of another great place that you'd like to see featured here, be sure to tell us about it on our Nomination page. If you're looking for more trails, here are some wonderful short hiking trails in Nebraska. And don't forget to download the AllTrails+ app to guide you along the trails.
When it comes to finding the best hiking destinations in the United States, Nebraska may not be the most obvious choice. However, the state is actually home to some incredible trails that are worth exploring. In fact, there are 18 hikes in Nebraska that are considered the best of the best. These top-rated hiking trails offer breathtaking views, challenging terrain, and a chance to connect with nature. If you're looking for a new adventure in 2024, consider checking out one of these best hikes in Nebraska!
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Best Hikes in Nebraska
Nebraska offers some fantastic hiking opportunities, and here are a few trails that stand out as the best. Platte River State Park Trail Loop is an excellent option for those looking for a moderate hike with beautiful views of the Platte River. Schramm Park Nature Loop is another great choice, with a variety of terrain and stunning scenery throughout. And if you're up for a challenge, the Zorinsky Lake Trail Full Loop is a must-try, with over seven miles of hiking and views of the lake.
FYI: Popular for birding, camping, and hiking, this trail often has other people exploring. Ideal visiting times are March through October, and dogs are welcome on a leash.
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Platte River State Park Trail Loop is a 6.7-mile moderately challenging route near South Bend, Nebraska. Popular for birding, camping, and hiking. Well-maintained, hilly, and offers customizable options with branching trails. Some visitors find the markings could be improved.
FYI: Popular for birding, hiking, and running, this trail offers moments of solitude during quieter hours. Dogs are welcome but must remain on a leash.
Explore the Schramm Park Nature Loop, a beautiful shaded hiking path just outside of town. Although it can get busy, it still offers a somewhat secluded experience. The trail features steep sections at the beginning, followed by pleasant ups and downs. Enjoy the scenic bridges, well-marked trails, benches for resting, and informative signs along the way.
FYI: Highly popular for birding, fishing, and paddle sports, expect to encounter others on this trail. Best visited between March and October. Leashed dogs are welcome.
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Experience the Zorinsky Lake Trail Full Loop, a 7.8-mile popular trail for running and biking. Enjoy the scenic paved loop with beautiful views and minimal hills. It's a great trail with plenty to see along the way.
Best Short & Easy Hikes in Nebraska
One of our favorite short and easy hikes is the Schramm Park Short Loop, which offers a suspension bridge and beautiful scenery. Another great hike is the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, which spans the Missouri River and provides breathtaking views of the Omaha skyline. Finally, the Red Cedar Trail is an easy hike that takes you through beautiful wooded areas and a picturesque creek.
FYI: Popular for cross-country skiing, hiking, and mountain biking, yet offers solitude during quieter times. Open year-round, suitable for leashed dogs. Beautiful throughout the year.
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If you're looking for a sweet hiking spot, check out Schramm Park Short Loop. A trail system featuring interlocking loops. There's a suspension bridge, some Adirondack shelters, and gorgeous scenery. The trail offers elevation changes and is ideal for those seeking wildlife encounters and stunning fall colors.
FYI: Popular for birding, hiking, and mountain biking, with opportunities for solitude. Best times to visit: March to October. Dogs welcome on a leash.
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The Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge is an impressive 3,000-foot walkway connecting two states (Nebraska and Iowa) over the Missouri River in downtown Omaha. It's a sight to behold and offers a magical experience for visitors exploring the waterfront.
FYI: Popular for hiking, running, and walking, offering moments of solitude during quieter hours.
The Red Cedar Trail is a well-maintained and picturesque hike with a variety of inclines and a suspension bridge that adds an element of fun. Perfect for all ages, it's an easy and kid-friendly hike with shaded paths, multiple bridges, and benches for resting throughout the trail.
Hardest Hikes in Nebraska
Nebraska may not be known for its mountains, but that doesn't mean there aren't some challenging hikes. One of the toughest is the Hawthorne to Marsh to Missouri Loop, which offers views of the Missouri River. The Rock Bluff Run Trail is another option, with rugged terrain and a steep ascent to the top of the bluff. Finally, the Oak Creek Trail may be easier than the others, but it's no less challenging, with its 12.8-mile long trek.
FYI: Popular trail for birding and hiking with opportunities for solitude during quieter hours. No dogs allowed.
Discover the Hawthorne to Marsh to Missouri Loop, a 10.5-mile challenging trail near Bellevue, Nebraska. The route offers beautiful views of the forest, prairie, and Missouri River, making it one of the best hikes near Omaha. The loop takes around four and a half hours to complete, making it a fantastic hike for those who want to break a sweat.
FYI: Ideal for backpacking, birding, and camping with minimal crowds. Open year-round, dogs allowed on leash. There is a fee for parking.
The Rock Bluff Run Trail offers a challenging and rewarding hike with epic views and lots of elevation changes. It's perfect for those seeking a more intense hiking experience in Nebraska and is ideal for preparing for backpacking adventures.
FYI: Popular trail for hiking, horseback riding, and running. Offers moments of solitude. Open year-round, leashed dogs welcome. Beautiful scenery throughout.
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The Oak Creek Trail is a 12.8-mile-long point-to-point trail popular for running and biking with a quiet and scenic countryside setting. The crushed rock path follows an old railroad route, providing a unique and peaceful experience. It's perfect for marathon training and offers picturesque views of Oak Creek from the railroad bridges.
Best Waterfront Hikes in Nebraska
One of the best waterfront trails is the Zorinsky Lake East Loop, which offers views of the lake and is family-friendly. If you're looking for a longer hike, the Wehrspann Lake Full Loop is a great option, with miles of scenic trails to explore. And for a more laid-back experience, the Flanagan Lake Trail is a perfect choice, with its easy terrain and tranquil surroundings. All three of these hikes offer something unique, making them some of the best waterfront hikes in Nebraska.
FYI: Popular trail for birding, road biking, and running. Enjoy solitude during quieter times. Best times to visit: April to September. Leashed dogs welcome.
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The Zorinsky Lake East Loop is a well-maintained, shaded paved trail, perfect for running, biking, and leisurely walks. It's wheelchair, kid, and stroller friendly, so it's an excellent option for the whole family. A great place for outdoor activities and relaxation.
FYI: This is a very popular area for fishing, road biking, and running, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.
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Hike the Wehrspann Lake Full Loop - a 6.0-mile easy trail with a beautiful mix of wooded and prairie sections. The path is a mix of double-track and small single-track portions around the lake, providing a scenic and lightly hilly hike.
FYI: Popular trail for road biking, running, and walking. Solitude during quieter times. Open year-round, beautiful anytime. Leashed dogs welcome.
Take on the Flanagan Lake Trail! This paved path circles a scenic man-made lake and offers a wide, well-maintained surface for walking, biking, and relaxation. Enjoy the convenience of benches along the way, making it a perfect spot for the whole family to take a break and enjoy the outdoors. Don't miss this great park with plenty of fun for the kiddos.
Best Winter Hikes in Nebraska
Winter can be a great time to explore the great outdoors in Nebraska. If you're a fan of hiking, there are plenty of trails to choose from. Some of the best winter hikes in the state include the L.E. Ray Lake Loop, Lake Seldom Trail, and Iron Horse Trail Lake Loop. These trails offer stunning views of the winter landscape and are a great way to get some exercise and fresh air during the colder months.
FYI: Great for birding, running, and walking. Few crowds. Leashed dogs welcome.
Explore the L.E. Ray Lake Loop, a delightful 1.3-mile dirt trail near Grand Island, Nebraska. With its easy terrain, the hike is perfect for birding, running, and leisurely walks. Discover the scenic lake as you follow the trail around, passing a dog park in the middle and a boat ramp in the southwest corner. Enjoy a quick and enjoyable outing on this scenic loop.
FYI: Ideal for birding, mountain biking, and running. Minimal crowds. Open year-round, scenic anytime. Dogs allowed on leash.
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Have you ever heard of the Lake Seldom Trail? It's a lovely 1.8-mile out-and-back path located near Holdrege, Nebraska. The trail is incredibly well-maintained and offers a convenient option for hikers, as it's located just outside of town. The informative interpretive signs and gravel parking lots at both ends make this trail a pleasant and accessible hike for all to enjoy.
FYI: Popular for birding, hiking, and running. Solitude possible during quieter hours. Best times: March-October. Dogs allowed, some off-leash areas. Day use fee to Nemaha NRD.
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The Iron Horse Trail Lake Loop is a 2.8-mile foot trail encircling the picturesque Iron Horse Trail Lake. This local favorite is a hidden gem offering a peaceful, less crowded hiking experience. The route provides excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting, and with numerous picnic tables along the way, it's an ideal spot for a relaxing outdoor excursion.
Best Hikes near Lincoln
If you're looking for great hiking options in the Lincoln area, you won't want to miss out on the Wilderness Park Trails, Holmes Lake Loop, or Pioneers Park Trails. Each of these trails offers a pretty view and a chance to get out and experience nature not too far from the city.
FYI: Popular for birding, cross-country skiing, and hiking. Solitude possible during quieter times. Open year-round, beautiful anytime. Dogs allowed on a leash.
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Experience the beauty of Wilderness Park Trails, offering gorgeous and mostly shaded paths with lovely views. The wooded dirt tracks wind through dense woods teeming with wildlife like deer, turkey, raccoons, and foxes. While bugs can be pesky in the summer, it's well worth the visit to this park's amazing trails, making this route one of the best options for nature lovers.
FYI: Popular for hiking, road biking, and walking. Expect encounters with others. Dogs allowed on a leash.
Holmes Lake Loop offers a super easy and enjoyable trail with mostly gravel. It's perfect for walking and biking, making it a great family activity. The well-paved and maintained trails around the lake provide beautiful views of nature and the serene lake, making it a delightful experience for all.
FYI: Popular for birding, hiking, and running. Solitude possible during quieter times. Best to visit from March to October. Dogs allowed on a leash.
Pioneers Park Trails offer a beautiful 2.9-mile loop with lots of shade, greenery, and a lovely water feature. The large park provides numerous trails and sights to explore, making it a wonderful outdoor destination near Lincoln.
Have you had the chance to explore any of the hiking trails in Nebraska? If so, do you think any stand out as the best for Nebraska hiking? We’re curious to hear your thoughts on the best hiking trails in Nebraska, so share your recommendations with us!
