MoPac Trail
One of Lincoln’s most iconic outdoor routes, MoPac Trail follows the former Missouri Pacific Railroad corridor from 19th and Vine streets near the University of Nebraska campus all the way east through Lincoln to 84th Street and beyond to Wabash. This scenic stretch blends energetic city views with peaceful park scenery as it winds past Peter Pan Park, McAdams Park and Bethany Park. With smooth pavement, long open stretches and endless connections to other trails, MoPac delivers the perfect mix of active adventure and laid-back exploring for bikers, runners and long-distance trekkers.
Pioneers Park Nature Center Trails
For peaceful prairie energy and cozy woodland escapes, Pioneers Park Nature Center is unmatched. Tucked into southwest Lincoln, this scenic trail system features more than 10 miles of winding paths through rolling prairie grasses, shaded forests, wetlands and wide-open landscapes across 668 acres. Connected to the Bison Trail and Prairie Corridor trails, it’s the perfect spot for laid-back nature walks, beginner-friendly hikes and dreamy golden-hour adventures.
Billy Wolff Trail
Cutting through the heart of Lincoln, the Billy Wolff Trail follows Antelope Creek from near the Bob Devaney Sports Center down to southeast Lincoln near Pine Lake Road. This paved pathway gives major active-city energy with scenic bridges, public art, creek views and nonstop trail connections along the route. Whether you’re biking, jogging or heading out for an after-work walk, Billy Wolff feels vibrant, adventurous and effortlessly connected to the pulse of the city.
Rock Island Trail
Stretching southwest through Lincoln, Rock Island Trail blends scenic outdoor escapes with some of the city’s most-loved attractions. Along the way, you’ll pass spots like the Lincoln Children’s Zoo, Sunken Gardens and Antelope Park while weaving through tree-lined stretches and peaceful neighborhoods. With direct connections to Wilderness Park, SouthPointe pathways and Billy Wolff Trail, this route feels adventurous, lively and perfect for exploring Lincoln from an entirely new perspective.
Holmes Lake Trail
Holmes Lake Trail delivers the ultimate easygoing outdoor vibe. Wrapped around Holmes Lake in southeast Lincoln, this scenic loop is filled with sparkling water views, breezy pathways and peaceful green space perfect for sunset walks, casual bike rides and relaxing lakeside jogs. The atmosphere here feels calm, refreshing and effortlessly scenic, especially after a picnic or slow afternoon at the park.
Jamaica North Trail
Stretching south from downtown Lincoln through Wilderness Park and beyond, Jamaica North Trail is a favorite for long scenic rides and peaceful outdoor resets. The crushed limestone pathway creates a rugged, nature-forward vibe while still staying closely connected to the city. Surrounded by wooded scenery, open skies and quiet stretches of trail, Jamaica North feels adventurous, grounding and ideal for clearing your head while soaking up Nebraska’s natural beauty.
Wilderness Park Trails
If you’re looking for a true outdoor adventure, Wilderness Park absolutely delivers. Located in south Lincoln, this massive trail system features nearly 39 miles of rugged unpaved trails winding through dense forests, creek crossings and scenic floodplain landscapes. The atmosphere here feels wild, immersive and completely removed from city life, making it a favorite for hiking, trail running and mountain biking. Between the towering trees, wildlife sightings and adventurous terrain, Wilderness Park feels like a full-on nature escape hidden inside Lincoln.
Lincoln Saline Wetlands Nature Center
One of Lincoln’s most underrated outdoor gems, the Saline Wetlands area offers peaceful walking trails, wide-open Nebraska landscapes and incredible birdwatching opportunities. Located northwest of downtown, this scenic spot feels quiet, calm and perfect for slower-paced adventures, perfect photo moments and soaking in the natural beauty of the prairie wetlands.
Antelope Park
Located in central Lincoln, Antelope Park is all about relaxed outdoor energy. With shaded walking paths, open green spaces, nearby gardens and scenic trail connections, it’s the perfect place for easy afternoon strolls, casual outdoor hangs and low-key exploring. The atmosphere feels welcoming, peaceful and effortlessly classic Lincoln. Plus, the Jane Snyder Trails Center located along Antelope Valley Trail and Union Plaza serves as a great hub for many of Lincoln’s trails!
Prairie Pines Nature Preserve
Tucked away on the edge of Lincoln, Prairie Pines Nature Preserve offers a serene, secluded escape surrounded by prairie grasses, pine trees and peaceful nature trails. This hidden gem delivers relaxed woodland vibes and a slower pace that feels perfect for nature photography, reflective walks and unplugging from the noise of everyday life.
