The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Omaha

Explore the OPPD Arboretum on an easy 0.9-mile (1.5 km) hike, gaining just 39 feet (12 metres) of elevation. This route takes about 22 minutes to complete, offering a quick escape into nature. You will find a mix of paved paths, gravel, and soft wood-chip trails winding through native prairies, well-kept gardens, and shaded forested areas, including a notable sycamore from Elvis Presley's Graceland estate.

The arboretum welcomes visitors daily from dawn to dusk with free admission. You can bring your leashed dog to enjoy these family-friendly trails alongside you. Parking is generally available on-site, making it straightforward to access the trailhead and begin your hike.

This unique arboretum showcases over 1,000 trees and shrubs, providing a rich landscape to discover. As you hike, keep an eye out for local wildlife such as birds, rabbits, and butterflies, especially near the pond. The variety of plant life and the peaceful atmosphere make this a distinctive spot for a short, refreshing outdoor experience.

The Big Papio Trail invites you to a pleasant hiking experience along a paved path that frequently borders the Big Papillion Creek. You'll enjoy verdant views along the creek's banks as it winds through various city parks, such as Hefflinger Park, creating a unique blend of urban and natural scenery. This moderate route spans 5.5 miles (8.8 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 65 feet (20 metres), typically taking around 2 hours and 14 minutes to complete.

Planning your visit to the Big Papio Trail is straightforward, as numerous access points and parking opportunities are available in the city parks along its route. The trail features grade-separated crossings at most major streets and railways, ensuring a safer experience away from motorized traffic. You can easily find a convenient starting point, making it simple to enjoy this accessible outdoor path.

The Big Papio Trail is a key part of Omaha's larger urban trail network, offering more than just a standalone hike. It connects to the Keystone Trail, allowing you to extend your adventure if you wish. The route's design prioritizes accessibility, providing a multi-use path that caters to a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the city's green spaces.

Embark on a moderate hike along the Keystone, Elmwood South, and Memorial Trail, a route that guides you through Omaha's inviting green spaces. You will follow the gentle flow of the Little Papillon Creek, experiencing a pleasant blend of urban parkland and landscaped scenery. This trail covers 5.9 miles (9.5 km) and involves a manageable elevation gain of 191 feet (58 metres). Expect to spend around 2 hours and 27 minutes completing this journey, enjoying the atmosphere of the historic Memorial Park as you pass through.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as parking is generally available near the various park entrances, including Elmwood Park and Memorial Park. You do not need any special permits to enjoy the Keystone, Elmwood South, and Memorial Trail, making it easy to arrive and begin your adventure. This route is known for being family-friendly, and many sections are also suitable for dogs, offering a great option for a leisurely outing with loved ones.

This trail is notable for connecting several key areas within Omaha, providing a unique opportunity to explore different green spaces in one continuous hike. You will encounter a mix of natural elements and carefully maintained landscapes, offering varied views throughout your journey. It is a popular choice for those looking to enjoy the outdoors without venturing far from the city, providing a refreshing escape into nature.

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.