The best traffic-free bike rides in Big Elk Lake Recreation Area
4.5
(3)
459
riders
11
rides
If you've ever tried to plan road cycling in Big Elk Lake Recreation Area, you know how overwhelming the options can be. With so many paths and connections, it's hard to tell which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. We get it – you want the highlights, not the guesswork.
That's where komoot comes in. Our community has mapped, ridden, and reviewed these routes, giving you a curated shortlist of the best no…
Last updated: May 30, 2026
32
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
4.0
(2)
72
riders
39.3km
02:06
50m
50m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
15
riders
56.5km
03:13
310m
310m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Popular around Big Elk Lake Recreation Area
Tips from the Community
This pleasant, paved trail runs right past Seymour Smith Park, making it a great option for cycling north or south along the Papillion Creek corridor. Only a little over two miles of the Keystone Trail actually run over the railbed, but you can still see traces of that heritage in pilings, a lingering trestle, and one massive railroad bridge along the trail's length.
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Cycling this path around Zorinsky Lake is a fine opportunity to see Bauermeister Prairie, one of the few remaining native tall-grass prairies in this part of the state.
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At this spot you cross a nice bridge over West Papio Creek. The water is lined with rushes and tall grasses, which makes the water sometimes a little hard to see from the side, but makes it a popular spot with birds and other wildlife. This is a nice place to slow down and keep an eye out for them!
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Would ride it early, especially in summer, as it can get very hot and the amount of shade is pretty low on some sections of the trail.
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The Big Papio Trail follows Big Papillion Creek pretty much the entire time. It's ten miles each direction and is paved the entire way. There are lots of parks and paths to explore off the side of the path if you want to add on to your ride.
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Zorinsky Lake was named after Senator Edward Zorinsky. The lake is 255 acres and is open to boating and fishing. In 2010, a zebra mussel was discovered, and the lake was partially drained to freeze and kill the invasive species.
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Named in honor of Senator Edward Zorinsky of Omaha, this park features a sprawling 255-acre lake, perfect for boating and fishing enthusiasts alike. It's a great spot to hop off the bike and take a swim or rest!
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Keystone Trail is a lovely flat and well paved trail that is perfect for cycling away from busy traffic. Take care to stay on the path and not fall in the creek.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no traffic road cycling routes are available in Big Elk Lake Recreation Area?
There are 11 dedicated no traffic road cycling routes in the Big Elk Lake Recreation Area, offering a variety of distances and difficulty levels for you to explore.
What is the overall difficulty level of no traffic road cycling routes in Big Elk Lake Recreation Area?
The routes are generally accessible, with 6 easy routes and 5 moderate routes. There are no routes classified as difficult, making the area suitable for a wide range of cyclists.
Are there beginner-friendly no traffic road cycling routes in the area?
Yes, there are several beginner-friendly options. For instance, the Prairie Queen Trailhead – Walnut Creek Recreation Area loop from Papillion is an easy route covering just over 30 km with manageable elevation changes, perfect for those new to road cycling.
Are there options for more advanced no traffic road cyclists seeking longer distances?
Absolutely. For those looking for a longer ride, the Cunningham Lake Bridge – Keystone Trail loop from Richland III Precinct offers a substantial 92.7 km journey with moderate difficulty, allowing you to cover more ground without traffic.
What natural features or landmarks can I expect to see along the no traffic road cycling routes?
The routes often pass through diverse landscapes, including the 13-acre Big Elk Lake itself, native grasslands, and areas within the Papillion Creek Watershed. You might also encounter features like breakwaters and fish bumpouts near the lake, and the routes can connect to other parks like Halleck Park Arboretum.
Is parking available for no traffic road cyclists at Big Elk Lake Recreation Area?
Yes, the Big Elk Lake Recreation Area is designed with visitor convenience in mind. There are day-use facilities that include parking areas, making it easy to access the cycling routes.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Big Elk Lake Recreation Area?
The komoot community highly rates the Big Elk Lake Recreation Area, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Cyclists often praise the well-maintained, paved trails and the opportunity to enjoy the natural surroundings without vehicle traffic.
Are there any circular no traffic road cycling routes around Big Elk Lake?
Yes, the Big Elk Lake Recreation Area features a full loop paved trail, which is ideal for circular no traffic road cycling. Many routes incorporate sections of this loop or connect to other trails to form longer circular journeys.
What is the best time of year for no traffic road cycling in Big Elk Lake Recreation Area?
Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be enjoyable, but it's advisable to ride earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the peak heat. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Are there any routes that connect to other notable trails or parks?
Yes, several routes connect to other popular trails and parks. For example, the Big Papio Trail – Keystone Trail loop from Papillion links two significant trail systems, offering an extended and varied cycling experience.
Can I find a relatively short and easy no traffic road cycling route for a quick ride?
Certainly. The Halleck Park Arboretum loop from Papillion Second II Precinct is an easy route just under 19 km, perfect for a shorter, relaxed ride without traffic.
Most popular routes in Big Elk Lake Recreation Area
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