The best walks and hikes around Council Bluffs
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Hikes around Council Bluffs explore the unique landscape of the Loess Hills, a formation of wind-deposited silt that creates a series of rolling hills and ridges along the Missouri River floodplain. The area's terrain is characterized by a mix of prairie, oak savanna, and deciduous forest. The trail network includes both urban paths and routes within nature preserves, offering varied elevation changes.
Best hiking trails around Council Bluffs
- The most popular hiking route is History Trail, Missouri Trail, and Riverview Boardwalk loop — Fontenelle Forest, a 8.8 mile (14.2 km) trail that takes about 4 hours to complete. This route features significant elevation gain and passes through forested areas.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Hawthorn Trail loop — Fontanelle Forest — Omaha, a moderate 2.9 mile (4.7 km) path. The trail involves some climbing through woodland terrain.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge — Omaha, a 1.4 mile (2.3 km) trail leading across the Missouri River, often completed in about 35 minutes.
- Hiking around Council Bluffs is defined by the rolling Loess Hills, riverside paths, and woodland trails. The network provides options for different ability levels, from flat riverfront walks to more challenging routes with elevation changes in the surrounding preserves.
- The routes in Council Bluffs are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from a number of reviews. More than 150 hikers have used komoot to explore Council Bluffs's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
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7.76km
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Embark on an easy hike along the Lake Manawa Trail, offering continuous scenic views of the lake itself. This 4.8-mile (7.8 km) route features a gentle 33 feet (10 metres) of elevation gain, making it a perfect choice for a relaxed outing that takes about 1 hour and 57 minutes to complete. While mostly paved and flat, you will find some unpaved sections on the south side winding through wooded areas, occasionally revealing glimpses of the Missouri River.
Planning your visit to the Lake Manawa Trail is straightforward. You can access the trailhead easily, with parking generally available within Lake Manawa State Park. The route is accessible year-round, even providing good conditions for winter hiking, so you can enjoy it in any season. This multi-use trail is also dog-friendly, making it ideal for a stroll with your furry companion.
Beyond the pleasant views, the Lake Manawa Trail offers opportunities to observe local wildlife. Keep an eye out for creatures like deer and bald eagles as you make your way around the lake. For those looking to extend their adventure, the trail conveniently connects to a broader network, including the Wabash Trace Trail, offering options for longer excursions.
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Hike the easy 4.3-mile Iowa Riverfront Trail for views of the Omaha skyline and a unique experience on the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge.
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1.90km
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Embark on an easy hike along the Missouri Trail, a gentle 1.2-mile (1.9 km) route through the serene Fontenelle Forest. You will experience forested hills and pleasant views, especially from the Missouri River Viewpoint, where the river scenery unfolds before you. This short path involves a minimal 2 feet (1 metres) of elevation gain and takes approximately 28 minutes to complete, making it perfect for a quick outdoor escape. As you walk, you will also cross the charming Mill Hollow Boardwalk, adding a unique touch to your journey through the woodlands.
Planning your visit to the Missouri Trail is straightforward, as it is generally accessible. While specific warnings are not noted, you might find spring and autumn offer the most comfortable hiking conditions, with pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summers can be hot and humid, so consider an early start if you hike then. The trail is located within Fontenelle Forest, so check their official website for any specific operating hours or entrance fees before you head out.
The Missouri Trail offers a glimpse into the natural beauty of Fontenelle Forest, an area characterized by its unique blend of forested hills and close proximity to the Missouri River. This route stands out for its accessible nature, providing an easy way to connect with the local ecosystem. It's a great option if you are looking for a short, peaceful walk that highlights the region's natural landscape without requiring extensive time or effort.
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Embark on an easy hike across the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, a distinctive S-curved, cable-stayed structure offering sweeping views. As you cross, you'll see the downtown skylines of Omaha and Council Bluffs, framed by the scenic Missouri River valley. This short route covers 0.6 miles (0.9 km) with a minimal elevation gain of just 11 feet (3 metres), making it an ideal easy stroll. You can comfortably complete this hike in about 13 minutes, enjoying the open air and unique perspective. At night, the bridge transforms with multi-colored illumination, adding a different atmosphere to your walk.
The Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge is easily accessible for all, whether you are walking, cycling, or running. You will find amenities at the Omaha landing, including the Omaha Plaza, which offers seating, exhibits, and a water jet spray fountain. This makes it a convenient spot to begin or end your journey. The bridge also acts as a gateway to extensive networks of paved trails on both the Nebraska and Iowa sides of the river, allowing you to extend your outing if you wish.
One of the most unique features of the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge is the opportunity to stand with one foot in Nebraska and the other in Iowa, a popular activity known as "bobbing." This landmark connects two states over the Missouri River, making it a significant regional attraction. Its striking design and dual-state connection make it a memorable spot for visitors and locals alike, offering both a scenic walk and a fun photo opportunity.
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Embark on the easy Ridge Trail, a short hike offering expansive views and glimpses of the surrounding forest. This route gives you a sense of being elevated as you walk, providing a quick escape into nature. You will cover 0.4 miles (0.6 km) and gain 37 feet (11 metres) in elevation, making it an ideal choice for a brief outdoor adventure. The entire hike takes approximately 10 minutes to complete. Keep an eye out for wildlife as you pass by the Fontenelle Forest Nature Center and Tom's Treehouse and Play Fort.
Planning your visit to the Ridge Trail is straightforward. This easily accessible route is a convenient option if you are looking for a quick hike. Parking is generally available near the trailhead, allowing you to begin your adventure without hassle. You can easily fit this short excursion into your day.
The Ridge Trail is located within Fontenelle Forest, a natural area known for its diverse ecosystem. This particular route offers a unique perspective, allowing you to experience the forest from an elevated position. It is a great way to connect with nature and observe local wildlife, even on a short outing.
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Other adventures around Council Bluffs
Tips from the Community
The facilities were very nice. Picnic tables to have a snack at and a fountain to fill bottles. I usually balk at paying entrance fees to visit nature but the facility is really worth it. The raptor center was worth the price of admission.
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The wooden boardwalk makes this accessible to everyone. Parents with small children and strollers, the elderly or others with mobility issues will enjoy the journey.
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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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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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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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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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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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The nature center currently costs €11 entry and is open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. There is a bird of prey sanctuary that can be visited, a museum and a variety of hiking trails.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many dog-friendly hiking trails in Council Bluffs?
Yes, many parks and trails in the Council Bluffs area welcome dogs. Vincent Bluff State Preserve is a popular spot for hiking with dogs, offering some good elevation changes over shorter distances. The trails at Lewis and Clark Park & Monument are also a great option for enjoying a walk with your furry friend while taking in the views.
What are some good, easy hikes for families with kids?
For a unique and easy family outing, the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge — Omaha is a great choice. It's a short, flat walk where kids can have fun standing in both Iowa and Nebraska at the same time. Lake Manawa State Park also offers gentle trails suitable for all ages.
Where can I find the best scenic views while hiking?
The Loess Hills provide the most dramatic scenery in the region. For panoramic views, head to the 45-foot-tall HawkWatch Tower at Hitchcock Nature Center. You can also get expansive views of the city, the Missouri River, and the Omaha skyline from the trails at Vincent Bluff State Preserve and Fairmount Park.
What is the terrain like on the trails around Council Bluffs?
The hiking is defined by the unique Loess Hills, which are hills made of wind-deposited silt. This creates a landscape of rolling hills with some surprisingly rugged and steep sections. You'll find a mix of prairie, oak savanna, and forest. While some trails like the Wabash Trace are flat, many routes in the nature preserves involve significant elevation changes.
Are there any long-distance trails in the area?
Yes, the Wabash Trace Nature Trail is a 63-mile trail that starts in Council Bluffs and runs to the Missouri border. It's a converted railroad line with a crushed gravel surface, making it ideal for long, uninterrupted walks or bike rides through a tree-lined corridor.
What are some good circular hikes?
The Hidden Lake, Prairie and Marsh Trail loop — Fontenelle Forest — Omaha is a great option that takes you through varied landscapes including prairie and marshland. Many of the trail systems, like the one at Hitchcock Nature Center, are designed with interconnecting loops, allowing you to create a walk of your desired length.
How many hiking trails are there in the Council Bluffs area?
There are over 30 curated hiking routes to explore around Council Bluffs on komoot. The area's trail system is quite extensive, with over 40 miles of recreational trails connecting various parks and landmarks throughout the city and surrounding nature preserves.
What do other hikers enjoy about the trails in Council Bluffs?
The trails around Council Bluffs are highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the unique experience of walking through the Loess Hills, the well-maintained paths, and the beautiful scenic overlooks of the Missouri River valley.
Are there any challenging hikes with significant elevation gain?
Yes, for a more strenuous hike, consider the History Trail, Missouri Trail, and Riverview Boardwalk loop — Fontenelle Forest. This route covers over 8 miles and includes considerable climbing through the forest. The trails within Hitchcock Nature Center also offer challenging climbs up the steep Loess Hills.
Where can I find hikes with river views?
For direct river access and views, the Stream, Cottonwood and Missouri Trail — Fontenelle Forest — Omaha follows the Missouri River. Additionally, many of the hilltop trails, such as those at Lewis and Clark Monument Park, provide sweeping views of the river from above.
What is the best time of year to hike in Council Bluffs?
Spring and fall are ideal for hiking in Council Bluffs, offering pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with spring wildflowers or autumn colors. Summer can be hot and humid, so early morning hikes are recommended. Winter hiking is also possible, especially on clear, crisp days, and offers a different perspective of the Loess Hills landscape.
Are there any free hiking trails in Council Bluffs?
Yes, many excellent trails are free to access. You can explore Vincent Bluff State Preserve, Fairmount Park, and the Wabash Trace Nature Trail without an entry fee. Some locations like Hitchcock Nature Center may have a small vehicle entry fee which helps support the park's maintenance and conservation efforts.
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