The best walks and hikes in Edward Zorinsky Recreation Area
5.0
(9)
183
hikers
21
hikes
Hiking in Edward Zorinsky Recreation Area is centered around the 255-acre Zorinsky Lake in west Omaha. The landscape consists of paved pathways that circle the water, passing through open parkland and wooded sections. The area also contains a section of native tallgrass prairie, offering a mix of accessible trails with minimal elevation change.
Best hiking trails in Edward Zorinsky Recreation Area
- The most popular hiking route is Zorinsky Lake Trail east loop — Omaha, a 4.4 mile (7.0 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 48 minutes to complete. This is a paved path that follows the shoreline of the lake.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Zorinsky Lake – Zorinsky Dam loop from Millard, a moderate 6.9 mile (11.0 km) path. This longer route provides extended views of the lake and surrounding park.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Zorinsky Lake Trail west loop — Omaha, a 3.1 mile (5.0 km) trail leading through the park's western side, often completed in about 1 hour 17 minutes.
- Hiking in Edward Zorinsky Recreation Area is defined by lakeside paths, wooded areas, and sections of tallgrass prairie. The network of mostly paved trails offers options for different ability levels.
- The routes in Edward Zorinsky Recreation Area are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from 5 reviews. More than 100 hikers have used komoot to explore Edward Zorinsky Recreation Area's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
5.0
(1)
18
hikers
5.04km
01:18
20m
20m
Embark on an easy hike along the Zorinsky Lake Trail, a 3.1-mile (5.0 km) route that offers a pleasant escape into nature. You will enjoy continuous views of the expansive Zorinsky Lake as the path gently winds around its shores. The trail itself is mostly paved, making for a smooth journey, and features minimal elevation gain of just 74 feet (22 metres). Expect to spend about 1 hour and 17 minutes exploring the diverse landscapes, which include stretches through wooded areas and open grasslands. This accessible route is perfect for a relaxing outdoor experience.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is located within the Edward Zorinsky Recreation Area. Parking is readily available, making it easy to begin your adventure at any point along the route. The path is well-marked with green indicators every tenth of a mile, helping you track your progress effortlessly. This route is particularly suitable for families, those with strollers or wheelchairs, and even older pets due to its high accessibility.
Beyond the lake views, the trail offers a chance to observe local wildlife in its natural habitat. As you move through the open grasslands and natural prairie sections, keep an eye out for wildflowers, deer, and various bird species. The varied scenery, transitioning from lakeside to wooded areas, provides a dynamic backdrop for your outing. This trail stands out as a highly accessible option for enjoying the outdoors in the region.
5.0
(1)
16
hikers
7.02km
01:49
40m
40m
Explore the easy Zorinsky Lake Trail, a 4.4 miles (7.0 km) hiking route that circles the scenic lake. You will experience a gentle elevation gain of 115 feet (35 metres) over approximately 1 hour and 48 minutes, making it a perfect outing for a relaxed pace. The paved path offers pleasant views of the water and meanders through varied landscapes, including wooded sections and open parkland.
When planning your visit, you will find ample parking available within the Edward Zorinsky Recreation Area, making access straightforward. The trail is well-maintained and highly accessible, suitable for strollers and wheelchairs, so you can bring the whole family. While popular with locals, the wide paths generally accommodate both walkers and bikers comfortably.
Beyond the lake views, the trail also guides you through native tallgrass prairie sections and over Boxelder Creek and its wetlands. This diverse environment provides excellent opportunities for birdwatching and spotting local wildlife like deer and foxes. The route offers a good amount of shade in certain areas, enhancing your comfort during the journey.
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5.0
(1)
16
hikers
8.05km
02:04
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
7
hikers
4.97km
01:16
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.34km
01:08
30m
30m
Embark on the Whitehawk Park and Lake Loop for an easy hike that offers a refreshing escape. This 2.7-mile (4.3 km) route guides you around the picturesque Whitehawk Lake, providing pleasant views and a chance to observe local wildlife. With only 88 feet (27 metres) of elevation gain, you can comfortably complete this loop in about 1 hour and 7 minutes, making it ideal for a leisurely walk or a brisk run.
Accessing the trailhead is straightforward, and you will find ample parking available for your convenience. The path is well-maintained and suitable for hiking throughout the year, though it is a good idea to wear waterproof footwear if you visit after rainfall, as some sections can become muddy. Plan your visit for any time of day to enjoy the tranquil scenery.
This loop immerses you in a diverse natural landscape, featuring not only the lake but also the meandering Whitehead Creek. You will find clusters of trees offering shade, and keep an eye out for birds, squirrels, and even deer that frequent the area. It is a notable spot for experiencing nature and wildlife within the region.
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Popular around Edward Zorinsky Recreation Area
Tips from the Community
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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The lake is nice and open and you can walk down to the water from the grass the entire way around. A dam blocks the lake at the northern end.
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Zorinsky Dam was created in 1984 as part of an initiative to protect the city of Lincoln from flooding. The area became a state park in 1993. The dam blocks Papillion (Papio) Creek, as does Wehrspann Dam to the south.
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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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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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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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The lake is nice and open and you can walk down to the water from the grass the entire way around. A dam blocks the lake is at the northern end.
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the main trail around Zorinsky Lake?
The main paved path that encircles Zorinsky Lake is approximately 7.4 miles (11.9 km) long. It's a relatively flat and accessible route. For a shorter walk, you can cross the lake at 168th Street to create smaller, more manageable loops on the east or west sides of the water.
Are dogs allowed in Edward Zorinsky Recreation Area?
Yes, dogs are welcome in the park and on the trails, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please be sure to clean up after your pet to help keep the area enjoyable for everyone.
Are there any family-friendly hikes in the area?
The park is very family-friendly. The main paved trails are suitable for strollers and children of all ages. For a shorter, easy walk that's great for families, consider the Whitehawk Lake and Park loop — Omaha. Additionally, the park features two modern playgrounds and plenty of open space for kids to play.
Where is the best place to park?
There are several parking areas providing access to the trails. Popular starting points include the Zorinsky Lake Trail - North Trailhead off S 168th St and the main Zorinsky Lake Park entrance off S 156th St, which also has access to playgrounds and picnic areas. You can also find parking at the South and Northwest trailheads for quieter access points.
Are the trails suitable for wheelchairs or strollers?
Yes, the main Zorinsky Lake Trail is a paved, multi-use path that is generally wide and flat, making it well-suited for wheelchairs and strollers. The gentle gradients and smooth surface provide good accessibility for exploring the park and enjoying views of the lake.
Are there any unpaved or natural surface trails for hiking?
While the main loop around the lake is paved, the park also contains sections of natural landscape, including the Bauermeister Prairie, one of eastern Nebraska's few remaining native tallgrass prairies. Here you can find more rustic paths for a different hiking experience away from the paved trail.
How difficult are the hikes in Edward Zorinsky Recreation Area?
Most trails in the park are considered easy, with minimal elevation change. The primary paths are paved and well-maintained, making them accessible to a wide range of fitness levels. For a slightly more challenging outing, you could try the Papillion Reservoir D-38 – Zorinsky Lake Park loop, which is a bit longer than the main loops.
What do other hikers enjoy most about this area?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community. Reviewers often praise the beautiful lake views, the well-maintained paved paths, and the pleasant mix of shady, wooded sections and open parkland. The accessibility and options for different distances make it a local favorite.
How many hiking trails are in Edward Zorinsky Recreation Area?
You can find over 15 different hiking routes in and around the Edward Zorinsky Recreation Area on komoot. These range from short, easy loops to longer circuits, offering plenty of options to explore the park's diverse scenery.
What kind of wildlife might I see?
The park's varied habitats attract a range of wildlife. It's common for visitors to spot white-tailed deer, especially in the wooded areas during the early morning or evening. The lake is also a great place for birdwatching, with waterfowl, eagles, and other bird species frequently seen.
Are there other activities besides hiking?
Yes, the recreation area is a hub for many outdoor activities. The 255-acre lake is popular for boating, kayaking, and fishing for species like walleye and bass. The park also includes two playgrounds, numerous picnic shelters, and sports fields for baseball, soccer, and football.
Most popular routes in Edward Zorinsky Recreation Area
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