1.
Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge – Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge loop from Metropolitan Community College
63.5km
04:48
160m
160m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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The best road cycling routes around Crescent
By Fede from komoot
·
Updated June 1, 2026
If you've ever tried to plan road cycling around Crescent, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. With so many routes out there, it's tough to tell which ones are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. We get it – you want to hit the road knowing you're on a route that delivers. That's exactly why we've put together this guide. Our komoot community has ridden, mapped, and reviewed these routes, so we can offer you a curated shortlist of the best road cycling in Crescent, saving you all the guesswork.
Road cycling around Crescent is defined by its unique Loess Hills landscape, offering a mix of well-paved surfaces and moderate elevation changes. You'll find routes that often follow the Missouri River, connecting urban areas with natural settings. The region provides a pleasant blend of open stretches and some sections with gentle hills, making it accessible for various skill levels. Expect a good mix of riverfront paths and urban greenways.
If you only have time for one ride, we'd point you to the challenging Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge – Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge loop from Omaha. At 70.9 miles (114.2 km) with 1,706 feet (520 m) of climbing, it offers a substantial day out for experienced riders. For a more moderate, yet equally rewarding experience, the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge – Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge loop from Metropolitan Community College is a fantastic choice, covering 39.4 miles (63.5 km) with 514 feet (157 m) of elevation gain. Nearly 20 road cyclists have already explored Crescent's varied terrain with komoot, and we invite you to join them.
If you only do 3 of these routes
Compare these routes at a glance
Trail | Distance | Elevation | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge – Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge loop from Metropolitan Community College | 63.5 km | 160 m | Moderate |
| Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge – Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge loop from Omaha | 114 km | 520 m | Hard |
| Missouri River loop from Metropolitan Community College | 25.2 km | 60 m | Moderate |
2.
Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge – Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge loop from Omaha
114km
05:15
520m
520m
This extensive road cycling loop centered around the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge offers a unique urban adventure, connecting the trail systems of Omaha, Nebraska, and Council Bluffs, Iowa. You'll spend hours cruising along paved riverfront trails, enjoying panoramic views of the Missouri River and the city skylines, all while crossing the iconic S-curved bridge. Keep an eye out for the distinctive state line marker on the bridge, allowing you to literally stand in two states at once.
To tackle this difficult 70.9-mile (114.2 km) route with its 1708 feet (521 metres) of elevation gain, plan for a solid 5 hours and 14 minutes in the saddle. Parking is convenient on both sides of the bridge, and the trails are open 24 hours, making it flexible for early morning starts or even illuminated evening rides. Amenities like restrooms and water fountains are available near the bridge landings.
Beyond the ride itself, the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge is a landmark, known as "Omaha's Bob," and even has its own mascot, Omar the Troll, located on the Nebraska side. This route is a fantastic way to experience the extensive trail network that links both cities, providing a challenging yet rewarding day out for road cyclists.
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3.
Missouri River loop from Metropolitan Community College
25.2km
02:50
60m
60m
This Missouri River loop from Metropolitan Community College offers a pleasant road cycling experience, guiding you through varied landscapes along the river. You'll encounter a mix of open views of the Missouri River, stretches of dense forest, and perhaps some glimpses of farmland, providing a scenic backdrop for your ride. The route's generally flat terrain, with only 186 feet (57 metres) of elevation gain over 15.7 miles (25.2 km), makes it a good option for a relaxed yet substantial outing.
To plan your visit, consider starting from the Metropolitan Community College area where parking should be available. The route is best enjoyed during the spring and fall for comfortable temperatures, though early summer mornings can also be ideal. Allow approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes to complete this moderate road cycling loop at a steady pace.
Many routes along the Missouri River are known for their historic significance, often following corridors like those used by the MKT Railroad or Lewis and Clark. This area is part of an ongoing effort to connect existing trails, enhancing access to diverse ecosystems and offering opportunities for birdwatching. The multi-use nature of many paths in the region means you might share sections with other recreational users.
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Tips from the Community
Andrus
May 12, 2025, Carter Lake
Carter Lake was formed in 1877 when a large flood rerouted the Missouri River. The town of the same name has the distinction of being the only city in Iowa to be west of the Missouri River
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Andrus
May 12, 2025, Omaha Riverfront Trail
This 20-mile trail runs along the river and through downtown Omaha and multiple parks. It's a great way to get out and explore the city.
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Lisa
January 14, 2025, View of the Missouri River and Bridge from River Road
You get a nice view of the river here, and could even park your bike and hop on a river cruise if you like. But the best thing about River Road (just south of you) is that it connects cycle-friendly paths on the north and south sides of I-80.
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Alex
February 8, 2024, View of Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge
From here you gain an awesome view of the bendy Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge. A real feat of engineering and an interesting perspective to view it from.
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mtm05005
February 8, 2024, Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge
The Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge is a 3,000-foot-long pedestrian bridge over the Missouri River between Council Bluffs, Iowa, and Omaha, Nebraska. It is a popular way for cyclist, runners and walkers to move between the two cities.
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Zachary
February 2, 2024, Missouri River
The Missouri River is the longest river in North America. The Missouri has the nickname "Big Muddy" due to the amount of silt it carries. It was also one of the main routes for the westward expansion during the 19th century.
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mtm05005
December 6, 2023, Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge
The Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge 3,000-foot-long pedestrian bridge over the Missouri River between Council Bluffs, Iowa, and Omaha, Nebraska. It is a popular way for cyclist, runners and walkers to move between the two cities.
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Daniel Krueger
December 1, 2023, View of Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge
OMAR is a troll that traveled Omaha and wants to share its experiences, especially with kids, in an interactive way. You can find him 'in person' under the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes around Crescent?
The road cycling routes around Crescent, primarily near Omaha, Iowa, feature mostly well-paved surfaces. The terrain is characterized by the unique Loess Hills landscape, offering moderate elevation changes and gentle hills. Many routes follow river systems like the Missouri River, providing a mix of open stretches and scenic riverside paths.
Are there any easy road cycling routes for beginners in the Crescent area?
While the guide features routes generally rated as moderate to difficult, the Missouri River loop from Metropolitan Community College is a moderate route with minimal elevation gain (only 55 meters over 25.2 km), making it a good option for those looking for a less strenuous ride.
What are some notable landmarks or natural features I can see while road cycling near Crescent?
Road cycling routes in the Crescent area offer views of the unique Loess Hills and often follow the Missouri River. You can also pass by attractions such as the Missouri River itself, the Carter Lake Boardwalk, and the Omaha Riverfront Trail. The Hitchcock Nature Center, known for its Loess Hills landscape, is also a significant natural feature in the region.
Are there any loop road cycling routes available around Crescent?
Yes, several popular routes are loops. For example, the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge – Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge loop from Omaha and the Carter Lake – Missouri River loop from Metropolitan Community College are both well-regarded circular routes that allow you to start and finish at the same point.
What is the best time of year for road biking in the Crescent area?
The region experiences distinct seasons. While specific recommendations for Crescent, Iowa, are not detailed, areas with similar climates often offer pleasant cycling conditions in spring and fall due to milder temperatures. Summers can be warm, and winters may bring snow or colder weather, impacting road conditions.
Are there any family-friendly road cycling routes near Crescent?
While specific 'family-friendly' designations are not provided, routes with lower elevation gain and well-paved surfaces, such as the Missouri River loop from Metropolitan Community College, could be suitable for families looking for a more relaxed ride. These routes often follow urban greenways and riverfront paths, which tend to be safer and more accessible.
Where can I find parking for road cycling routes around Crescent?
Many routes in the Crescent area, particularly those starting near urban centers like Omaha, often have accessible parking. For routes originating from Metropolitan Community College, such as the Carter Lake – Missouri River loop or the Keystone Trail – Elmwood Park loop, parking facilities associated with the college or nearby public areas would be the most convenient starting points.
What are the most challenging road cycling routes in the Crescent area?
For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge – Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge loop from Omaha is rated as difficult. This route covers a significant distance of 114.1 km with over 500 meters of elevation gain, making it the most demanding option listed in the guide.
Can I access road cycling routes in Crescent using public transport?
Given that many routes start from or pass through urban areas like Omaha, it is likely that public transport options could provide access to starting points. Routes originating from locations like Metropolitan Community College, for instance, are often well-connected within city transport networks.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about road cycling in Crescent?
Road cyclists in the Crescent area appreciate the diverse scenery, which includes riverfront paths, urban greenways, and the unique Loess Hills landscape. The network provides options for different ability levels, from moderate loops to more challenging distances, allowing riders to experience the best of the region's natural and urban environments.
Are there cafes or places to stop for refreshments along the road cycling routes?
Many road cycling routes around Crescent are situated near Omaha, Iowa, which is an urban area. This means you'll find numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops in and around the city where you can stop for refreshments or a meal, especially near the start and end points of routes or as they pass through populated areas.
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