The best walks and hikes in Edward Zorinsky Recreation Area
5.0
(9)
187
hikers
23
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: July 8, 2026
5.0
(1)
19
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)
17
hikers
7.02km
01:49
40m
40m
The Zorinsky Lake Trail offers a refreshing escape into nature right in Omaha, providing a predominantly paved and wide path that makes for an easy 4.4-mile (7.0 km) hike. You'll enjoy continuous views of the expansive 255-acre Zorinsky Lake as the route winds through open grasslands, native tallgrass prairie, and shaded wooded sections near Boxelder Creek. This journey, with only 115 feet (35 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 48 minutes, making it ideal for a leisurely stroll. It's a smooth, accessible experience for all, including those with strollers or wheelchairs.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is well-maintained and clearly marked. You'll find convenient parking at the Edward Zorinsky Recreation Area, which also provides additional amenities like picnic areas. For the most pleasant conditions, aim to hike during the cooler parts of the day or consider a spring or autumn outing, though some shaded areas offer comfort during warmer months.
This trail is a fantastic spot for wildlife viewing, with opportunities to spot various birds, deer, foxes, and even eagles and waterfowl around the lake. Its diverse environment, blending lakeside views with wooded areas and prairie, makes it a dynamic backdrop for an outing. The Edward Zorinsky Recreation Area also offers fishing and boating, extending your recreational options beyond just hiking.
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5.0
(1)
17
hikers
8.05km
02:04
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
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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
The Whitehawk Park and Lake Loop offers a delightful escape into nature, winding through a varied landscape of open meadows and shaded woodlands. You'll encounter the tranquil Whitehawk Lake early on, a perfect spot for a break, before the path leads into denser woods and then opens up to expansive prairie meadows. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like waterfowl, deer, and various birds along this mostly flat and well-maintained route.
This easy 2.7-mile (4.3 km) hike, with a gentle 88 feet (27 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 1 hour and 7 minutes to complete. Parking is readily available at the Whitehawk Lake Trailhead and within Whitehawk Park. The trail is accessible year-round, but be aware that some sections can become muddy after rain, so waterproof footwear is a good idea.
Whitehawk Park is a 72-acre urban oasis in Douglas County, Nebraska, providing a refreshing experience that changes beautifully with the seasons. Beyond the loop trail, the park offers additional amenities such as a leisure playground, bike paths, and sports courts, making it a versatile destination for families and anyone looking for a peaceful outdoor activity.
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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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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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There are clusters of trees along Whitehawk Creek that offer some shade as the trail loops around past the baseball fields.
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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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The Whitehawk Lake Trail is paved and winds around the lake before crossing the street and looping around Whitehead Creek to the south. The trails are well maintained and in a safe part of town.
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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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The Zorinsky Lake Trail is paved and runs the perimeter of the lake. The trail takes you over Boxelder Creek and the wetlands to the west of Lake Zorinsky.
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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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