The best walks and hikes around Lincoln
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Hiking around Lincoln offers a diverse landscape characterized by an extensive urban trail system, tallgrass prairies, and floodplain forests. The region features numerous interconnected pathways that traverse woodlands, wetlands, and open fields. These trails provide access to natural habitats within and surrounding the city, catering to various activity levels. The terrain generally consists of gentle gradients, with some routes offering moderate elevation changes.
Best hiking trails around Lincoln
- The most popular hiking route is Wilderness Park Trail Southern Loop, a 2.5 miles (4.1 km) trail that takes 1 hour 1 minute to complete. This easy loop explores the dense woods and winding creeks of Wilderness Park.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Tierra Williamsburg Trail, an easy 4.2 miles (6.7 km) path. This route offers a mix of urban and natural scenery, connecting neighborhoods with green spaces.
- Local hikers also love the Billy Wolff Trail, a 24.5 miles (39.4 km) trail leading through urban parks and along Antelope Creek, often completed in about 10 hours 2 minutes.
- Hiking around Lincoln is defined by extensive urban trail networks, tallgrass prairies, and floodplain forests. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy strolls to more challenging long-distance routes.
- The routes in Lincoln are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.75 stars from over 5 reviews. More than 70 hikers have used komoot to explore Lincoln's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 25, 2026
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3
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4.09km
01:02
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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6.74km
01:44
40m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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39.4km
10:02
120m
120m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
9.31km
02:23
20m
60m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
8.66km
02:13
40m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Small zoo for children.
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The MoPac East Trailhead, just south of 84th and “O” streets, is an access point to the 25-mile crushed limestone MoPac Trail from Lincoln to Wabash. There are restrooms, water, and plenty of parking.
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Holmes Lake Park is a regional park in Lincoln that features exercise paths, sporting fields, and a number of recreational amenities free to all users. This is a big park with several miles of paths, a huge lake, and a couple bridges.
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The Lincoln Children's Zoo is a small local zoo designed to give children up close, interactive encounters with all of the zoo's animals. It is also well-known for its Christmas Light displays, which are enjoyed by people of all ages. The Rock Island Trail and Billy Wolf Trails pass through the zoo.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Lincoln?
Lincoln offers a diverse network of over 20 hiking routes, catering to various skill levels. These trails traverse tallgrass prairies, woodlands, and wetlands, providing a rich outdoor experience.
What types of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking in Lincoln?
Hikers in Lincoln will encounter a mix of natural environments, including native tallgrass prairies, dense woodlands, and wetland areas. Many trails follow natural features like Salt Creek, offering varied scenery throughout the region.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hiking options in Lincoln?
Yes, Lincoln has numerous easy trails suitable for families. For instance, the Holmes Lake Park Loop is an accessible 2.4-mile path that circles Holmes Lake, perfect for a leisurely walk. Another great option is the Pioneers Park Loop, an easy 3.1-mile route exploring prairie grasses and woodlands.
Where can I find longer or more challenging hikes in the Lincoln area?
For those seeking a more challenging experience, Lincoln offers longer routes. The Wilderness Park loop is a difficult 18.2-mile trail through a floodplain forest, typically taking over 7 hours to complete. Another difficult option is the Jamaica North Trail, which spans about 14 miles.
Are there any trails in Lincoln that are good for wildlife spotting?
Absolutely. Areas like Pioneers Park Nature Center and Spring Creek Prairie Audubon Center are excellent for wildlife. Pioneers Park is home to bison, elk, and birds of prey, while Spring Creek Prairie is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 235 recorded bird species. Wilderness Park also offers opportunities to see diverse wildlife within its dense woods and wetland areas.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Lincoln?
The hiking routes in Lincoln are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.7 stars. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, from quiet woodlands to open prairies, and the well-maintained pathways that make exploring the region enjoyable.
Are there any notable landmarks or attractions near the hiking trails?
Yes, several attractions are close to Lincoln's hiking trails. You can visit the Lincoln Children's Zoo, explore the extensive Billy Wolff Trail, or enjoy the scenery around Holmes Lake Park. Wilderness Park also features a unique Suspension Bridge.
Can I find trails that are paved or have crushed rock surfaces in Lincoln?
Yes, Lincoln is known for its extensive interconnected trail system, which includes both paved and crushed rock surfaces. This variety ensures comfortable walking conditions and accessibility across many routes, such as sections of the Jamaica North Trail and the Bison Trail.
Are there any trails that follow a former railway line?
Yes, the MoPac Trail in Lincoln is a notable example. This trail has been converted from a former railway line, offering a unique hiking experience through fields and forests.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Lincoln?
Lincoln's trails can be enjoyed throughout the year, with each season offering a different experience. Spring brings wildflowers and active wildlife, summer is ideal for longer days, autumn showcases beautiful foliage, and winter offers quiet, crisp walks, especially on paved or well-maintained crushed rock paths.
Are there any trails that feature wetlands or water bodies?
Many trails in Lincoln incorporate wetlands and water bodies. Holmes Lake Park Loop circles Holmes Lake, and Wilderness Park features winding creeks and wetland areas within its floodplain forest. Pioneers Park Nature Center also includes trails through wetlands, offering opportunities to observe aquatic flora and fauna.
What is the Bison Trail?
The Bison Trail is an easy 3.9-mile paved trail in Lincoln. It runs from the east entrance of Pioneers Park and connects to the Salt Creek Levy Trail, offering a pleasant walk with potential views of the park's resident bison.
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