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Hiking trails & Routes

Big Papio Trail

Hiking trails & Routes

Big Papio Trail

Moderate

4.9

(1979)

17,148

hikers

Big Papio Trail

Q: Where can I park to access the Big Papio Trail?

You'll find numerous access points and parking options along the trail. Good starting points include Seymour Smith Park and Towl Park . Hefflinger Park is another convenient option.

Q: What is the terrain like on the Big Papio Trail?

The trail is entirely paved and generally smooth, making it suitable for a wide range of activities. It's mostly flat, built atop a levee overlooking the Big Papillion Creek, with only very gentle inclines.

Q: Is the Big Papio Trail dog-friendly?

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly. Your furry friends are welcome, and you'll even find a popular dog park at Hefflinger Park along the route. Please ensure your dog is leashed and you clean up after them.

Q: What is the best time of year to visit the Big Papio Trail?

The trail is accessible year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and biking. In winter, it's even popular for cross-country skiing. Consider visiting during daylight hours for the best experience.

Q: Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee to use the trail?

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to enjoy the Big Papio Trail. It's a public multi-use trail open to everyone.

Q: Does the trail connect to other paths?

Yes, the Big Papio Trail is a key part of Omaha's urban trail network. It notably connects with the longer Keystone Trail at Seymour Smith Park , forming an important junction for extended routes. The route also passes through sections of the Ralston Trail.

Q: What can I see along the route?

You'll experience a varied landscape, including parks, greenbelts, and views of the Big Papillion Creek. The trail passes through Towl Park and Seymour Smith Park , which offer amenities and rest areas. Keep an eye out for birds, especially near Happy Hollow Country Club.

Q: Are there any amenities or facilities along the trail?

Yes, the trail passes through several parks like Seymour Smith Park and Towl Park , which provide rest areas and facilities. Seymour Smith Park offers amenities like softball, soccer, disc golf, and tennis. You can also find nearby restaurants and shops accessible from the trail, particularly near Regency Landing.

Q: Is the trail suitable for beginner hikers?

Absolutely. With its paved surface and mostly flat terrain, the Big Papio Trail is considered easy and is very suitable for beginner hikers, families, and those looking for a gentle outdoor experience.

Q: How are road and rail crossings handled on the trail?

For your safety, all road and rail crossings along the Big Papio Trail are handled via underpasses, meaning you won't have to contend with motorized traffic directly on the trail.

04:22

17.2km

40m

Hiking

Embark on a moderate hiking adventure along the Big Papio Trail, a 10.7-mile (17.2 km) route that winds through Omaha's diverse landscapes. You'll experience a mix of urban greenbelts and verdant creek banks, offering a refreshing escape. The trail is mostly paved, making for a smooth journey as you gain…

Last updated: April 23, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

216 m

Big Papio Trail — Sunset Hills Trailhead

Highlight • Trail

You can park in the pool parking lot to the west of the school. The Big Papio Trail is a paved trail that runs much of the length of Big …

Tip by

1.04 km

Towl Park

Highlight • Natural

Towl Park has sports fields and a fishing pond. The pond makes for a wonderful detour off the main path.

Tip by

8.61 km

Seymour Smith Park

Highlight • Rest Area

Seymour Smith Park has sports fields, a soap box derby track, and a skateboard park. The southern end of the Big Papio Trail ends here.

Tip by

17.2 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

17.1 km

< 100 m

Surfaces

16.4 km

745 m

< 100 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Today

Friday 10 July

27°C

21°C

47 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 9.0 km/h

to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I park to access the Big Papio Trail?

You'll find numerous access points and parking options along the trail. Good starting points include Seymour Smith Park and Towl Park. Hefflinger Park is another convenient option.

What is the terrain like on the Big Papio Trail?

The trail is entirely paved and generally smooth, making it suitable for a wide range of activities. It's mostly flat, built atop a levee overlooking the Big Papillion Creek, with only very gentle inclines.

Is the Big Papio Trail dog-friendly?

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly. Your furry friends are welcome, and you'll even find a popular dog park at Hefflinger Park along the route. Please ensure your dog is leashed and you clean up after them.

What is the best time of year to visit the Big Papio Trail?

The trail is accessible year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and biking. In winter, it's even popular for cross-country skiing. Consider visiting during daylight hours for the best experience.

Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee to use the trail?

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to enjoy the Big Papio Trail. It's a public multi-use trail open to everyone.

Does the trail connect to other paths?

Yes, the Big Papio Trail is a key part of Omaha's urban trail network. It notably connects with the longer Keystone Trail at Seymour Smith Park, forming an important junction for extended routes. The route also passes through sections of the Ralston Trail.

What can I see along the route?

You'll experience a varied landscape, including parks, greenbelts, and views of the Big Papillion Creek. The trail passes through Towl Park and Seymour Smith Park, which offer amenities and rest areas. Keep an eye out for birds, especially near Happy Hollow Country Club.

Are there any amenities or facilities along the trail?

Yes, the trail passes through several parks like Seymour Smith Park and Towl Park, which provide rest areas and facilities. Seymour Smith Park offers amenities like softball, soccer, disc golf, and tennis. You can also find nearby restaurants and shops accessible from the trail, particularly near Regency Landing.

Is the trail suitable for beginner hikers?

Absolutely. With its paved surface and mostly flat terrain, the Big Papio Trail is considered easy and is very suitable for beginner hikers, families, and those looking for a gentle outdoor experience.

How are road and rail crossings handled on the trail?

For your safety, all road and rail crossings along the Big Papio Trail are handled via underpasses, meaning you won't have to contend with motorized traffic directly on the trail.

Can I use the trail for activities other than hiking?

Yes, the Big Papio Trail is a multi-use path popular for a variety of activities. Besides hiking, you'll see people mountain biking, trail running, road biking, and even cross-country skiing during winter months.