Attractions and Places To See around Carter Lake - Top 19
Best attractions and places to see around Carter Lake, Iowa, a city west of the Missouri River, is centered around its unique oxbow lake. This area is known for its distinct character, shaped by the Missouri River's course. Visitors can explore a mix of natural features, historical sites, and recreational areas. The region offers diverse points of interest for those seeking outdoor activities and cultural experiences.
Best attractions and places to see around Carter Lake
- The most popular attractions is Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, a bridge that spans the Missouri River, connecting Iowa and Nebraska. This 3,000-foot-long pedestrian bridge is a popular route for walkers, runners, and cyclists.
- Another must-see spot is N.P. Dodge Memorial Park, a forest and historical site. This park features riverside forest trails and was a campsite for Lewis and Clark in 1804.
- Visitors also love Elmwood Park, a facilities area with sports fields and trails. The park offers numerous sports fields, well-maintained trails, and picnic areas near the creek.
- Carter Lake is known for its historical sites, parks, and natural features. The area provides a variety of attractions to see and explore, from riverfront trails to unique historical landmarks.
- The attractions around Carter Lake are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 20 upvotes and 10 photos shared.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge
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Expedition Madagascar
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The exhibition highlights an area of the world considered one of the top biodiversity hotspots, as it is home to the largest number of endemic plant and animal species. The Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium in Omaha is dedicated to conservation work on the island of Madagascar. Throughout the building, each exhibition is linked to ongoing projects in Madagascar as part of the Madagascar Biodiversity Partnership. With Expedition Madagascar, the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium in Omaha aims to introduce visitors to one of the world's leading conservation partnerships.
omahazoo.com/hubbard-expedition-madagascar
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Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Headquarters and Visitor Center
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Keystone Trail (near I-80)
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
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N.P. Dodge Memorial Park
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Tips from the Community
Keystone Trail is a lovely flat and well paved trail that is perfect for cycling away from busy traffic. Take care to stay on the path and not fall in the creek.
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The Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge is a 3,000-foot-long pedestrian bridge over the Missouri River between Council Bluffs, Iowa, and Omaha, Nebraska. It is a popular way for cyclist, runners and walkers to move between the two cities.
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Dodge Park is home to a host of beautiful riverside forest trails and recreation activities. This park was also the site of one of Lewis and Clark's campsites when they explored the Louisiana Purchase Territory in 1804. The Riverfront Trail extends south from here to Carter Lake and north to Hummel Park and Devil's Slide.
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The Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Headquarters and Visitor Center provides visitors with a comprehensive experience related to the Lewis and Clark expedition of 1804–1806. Inside you can find informative exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia presentation about the journey.
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The Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Headquarters and Visitor Center provides visitors with a comprehensive experience related to the Lewis and Clark expedition of 1804–1806. Inside you can find informative exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia presentation about the journey.
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Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Headquarters and Visitor Center
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The island of Madagascar is home to some of the world's most unique and endangered species, such as lemurs. The Hubbard Expedition Madagascar is the chance to see some of these animals in person. The exhibition highlights an area of the world considered one of the top biodiversity hotspots, as it is home to the largest number of endemic plant and animal species. The Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium in Omaha is dedicated to conservation work on the island of Madagascar. Throughout the building, each exhibition is linked to ongoing projects in Madagascar as part of the Madagascar Biodiversity Partnership. With Expedition Madagascar, the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium in Omaha aims to introduce visitors to one of the world's leading conservation partnerships. https://www.omahazoo.com/hubbard-expedition-madagascar
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Borderline between Iowa and Nebraska, ideal for a nice photo if you stand in both states.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Carter Lake?
The centerpiece is Carter Lake itself, a unique oxbow lake formed by the Missouri River, popular for fishing, swimming, boating, and water skiing. It's also a significant habitat for various bird species, including bald eagles. Additionally, N.P. Dodge Memorial Park offers beautiful riverside forest trails along the Missouri River.
Are there any historical sites to visit in the Carter Lake area?
Yes, the area has significant historical connections. N.P. Dodge Memorial Park was a campsite for Lewis and Clark in 1804. You can also visit the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Headquarters and Visitor Center for exhibits and presentations about their expedition.
What are some family-friendly activities available?
Families can enjoy several spots. Elmwood Park offers numerous sports fields, trails, and picnic areas. N.P. Dodge Memorial Park is also family-friendly with its trails. For a unique experience, consider Expedition Madagascar, which showcases unique and endangered species. The Boys and Girls Club also offers a summer day camp with outdoor activities like fishing and archery.
Are there accessible attractions for visitors with mobility needs?
Yes, the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge is wheelchair accessible, offering a unique experience to walk between Iowa and Nebraska. The Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Headquarters and Visitor Center is also wheelchair accessible.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near Carter Lake?
The area is great for outdoor enthusiasts. You can walk, run, or cycle across the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge. Carter Lake itself is popular for water sports. There's also an urban bike trail system. For hiking, explore routes like the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge Trail or the Lewis and Clark Monument Loop. Find more details on hiking at Hiking around Carter Lake.
Where can I go for a run or jog around Carter Lake?
The Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge is a popular spot for runners, connecting to extensive trail systems. You can find routes like the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge Loop or the Boat Cove loop. Discover more running trails at Running Trails around Carter Lake.
What is the best time of year to visit Carter Lake?
Carter Lake offers activities year-round. The warmer months are ideal for water activities like swimming, boating, and water skiing on the lake. The summer also features a day camp at the Boys and Girls Club. For birdwatching, especially bald eagles, the lake is a significant habitat, suggesting good viewing opportunities outside of peak summer.
Are there any parks or recreational areas besides the main lake?
Yes, Carter Lake has several parks. N.P. Dodge Memorial Park offers riverside forest trails. Other parks include Devere Watson Park, Mabrey Park (Fireman's Park), Rosenbaugh Park, Wavecrest Park, and The Skate Park. The Hamilton Sports Complex is also used by College World Series teams.
What makes the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge a unique attraction?
The Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge is a 3,000-foot-long bridge spanning the Missouri River, connecting Council Bluffs, Iowa, and Omaha, Nebraska. It's unique because you can stand with one foot in Iowa and the other in Nebraska, making for a popular photo opportunity. It's also a key part of the urban bike trail system.
What kind of wildlife can be seen at Carter Lake?
Carter Lake is home to various fish species, including black crappie, bluegill, channel catfish, common carp, green sunfish, and largemouth bass. It's also a significant habitat for ducks, geese, swans, and notably, bald eagles, making it a great spot for birdwatching.
Can I find easy hiking trails around Carter Lake?
Yes, there are several easy hiking options. The Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge Trail and the Lewis and Clark Monument Loop are both considered easy. You can find more easy routes and details at Easy hikes around Carter Lake.
Most popular routes around Carter Lake
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