The best running trails around Omaha

Omaha offers a wide selection of running routes, with over 70 different options available for you to explore. These routes cater to various preferences, from easy strolls to more challenging runs.

Omaha's jogging trails feature a diverse range of terrain. You'll find many paved paths, especially around the lakes and along riverfronts, offering smooth surfaces. Some routes, particularly in areas like Chalco Hills Recreation Area, include rolling hills, while others are mostly flat. This variety ensures options for all fitness levels and preferences.

Yes, Omaha has several easy jogging routes. The Standing Bear Lake Trail is an easy 3.0-mile loop featuring a floating boardwalk and scenic lake views, perfect for a relaxed run. Many other trails also offer flat sections ideal for beginners.

Many of Omaha's running routes boast beautiful scenery. The Zorinsky Lake Trail loop provides picturesque lake views and opportunities for wildlife spotting. The Lake Cunningham Trail offers scenic views of Glenn Cunningham Lake and its bridge. Additionally, the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge provides breathtaking views of the Missouri River and city skyline.

Omaha's extensive network of paved trails and parks makes many routes family-friendly. Trails around lakes like Zorinsky Lake and Lake Cunningham are generally flat and well-maintained, suitable for families. Elmwood Park and Memorial Park also offer beautiful landscapes and a 4-mile loop connecting them, which can be great for a family outing.

Yes, many of Omaha's outdoor spaces and trails are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. The extensive greenway trails and lake loops are popular choices for runners with their canine companions. Always check local park regulations for specific rules regarding pets.

You can encounter several interesting landmarks and attractions while jogging in Omaha. The Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge Loop takes you across the iconic Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, connecting Omaha to Council Bluffs. The Riverfront Trail passes by downtown Omaha sights and Heartland of America Park. You might also spot the Big Papio Trail or the West Papio Creek Bridge on other routes.

Omaha is well-known for its numerous loop running trails, especially around its many lakes. The Zorinsky Lake Trail loop is a popular 6.9-mile option, and the Lake Cunningham Trail offers a 6.5-mile paved loop. The Standing Bear Lake Trail is another great 3.0-mile loop option.

The running routes in Omaha are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Runners often praise the diverse terrain, the scenic lake views, and the extensive network of well-maintained trails that provide options for various ability levels.

For longer runs, Omaha offers extensive trail systems. The Keystone Trail is a paved path spanning 25 miles, connecting to other trails like Lake Cunningham and the Big Papio Trail. The Big Papio Trail itself is over 12 miles long, and the West Papio Trail offers 23.5 miles of paved path, allowing for extended runs.

Many of Omaha's parks and trailheads offer ample parking. For public transport, specific routes may vary, but the extensive trail network, particularly those closer to urban centers like the Riverfront Trail or parts of the Big Papio Trail, often have more accessible public transport options. It's advisable to check local transit schedules for specific trail access points.

Absolutely! Omaha is rich with lake-side running opportunities. You can run around Zorinsky Lake, Glenn Cunningham Lake, and Standing Bear Lake, all of which have dedicated trails offering beautiful water views. Chalco Hills Recreation Area also features trails around Lake Wehrspann.