Easy hikes and walks in Big Elk Lake Recreation Area
4.9
(6)
136
hikers
17
hikes
Easy hiking trails in Big Elk Lake Recreation Area navigate a landscape characterized by a central 13-acre lake, surrounded by 46 acres of park land and over 30 acres of native grassland. The terrain features gentle gradients, making it suitable for accessible walks. A large water quality basin also contributes to the aquatic habitat within the area. This environment supports diverse wildlife and offers scenic views across the lake and green spaces.
Best easy hiking trails in Big Elk Lake Recreation Area
- The most popular easy hiking route is Schwer Park Trail, a 1.9 miles (3.1 km) trail that takes about 50 minutes to complete. This route offers a straightforward path through parkland.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Walnut Creek Lake Trail, an easy 3.2 miles (5.1 km) path. This trail provides views of the lake and surrounding natural areas.
- Local hikers also love the Prairie Queen Trail Loop, a 3.9 miles (6.3 km) trail leading through open grassland and alongside water features, often completed in about 1 hour 35 minutes.
- Hiking in Big Elk Lake Recreation Area is defined by lakeside paths, native grasslands, and parkland, offering opportunities for wildlife spotting. The network offers options for various ability levels, focusing on easy hiking trails.
- The routes in Big Elk Lake Recreation Area are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.9 stars from 6 reviews. More than 120 hikers have used komoot to explore Big Elk Lake Recreation Area's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
1
hikers
3.11km
00:49
30m
30m
The Schwer Park Trail in Papillion offers a delightful, easy hiking experience, perfect for a quick escape into nature. You'll wander along well-maintained paths that wind through a serene landscape, featuring a tranquil lake and mature, old trees that provide a picturesque backdrop. The atmosphere is calm and inviting, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing walk where you can simply enjoy the outdoors without any strenuous effort.
Planning your trip to Schwer Park is quite simple, as the area provides convenient parking facilities right at the trailhead. Given its popularity as a family-friendly spot with amenities like a playground and splash pad, it's wise to consider visiting during less busy times, such as weekday mornings, to fully appreciate the peaceful setting. This 1.9-mile (3.1 km) route, with its gentle 96 feet (29 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 49 minutes to complete, making it a perfect short outing.
Beyond just hiking, Schwer Park is part of a larger recreation area that boasts a 7-acre fishing lake, a popular splash pad, and picnic sites, making it a versatile destination for various outdoor activities. The trail's easy difficulty ensures it's accessible for nearly everyone, including families with young children or those new to hiking. It's a fantastic option for a quick, refreshing break in nature, offering more than just a walk but a full recreational experience.
4.8
(4)
27
hikers
5.09km
01:19
30m
30m
The Walnut Creek Lake Trail offers a delightful and accessible escape into nature, winding around the scenic 105-acre Walnut Creek Lake. You'll enjoy rustic views of the water, open fields, and native Nebraska prairie, with sections passing through oak woodlands. The path is a mix of paved and grass surfaces, generally flat with only gentle elevations, making it a pleasant journey for all.
Located within the Walnut Creek Recreation Area, the trailhead is easy to access, and there's ample parking available. This easy 3.2-mile (5.1 km) loop, with a minimal 110 feet (33 metres) of elevation gain, takes approximately 1 hour and 19 minutes to complete. It's a family-friendly and dog-friendly trail, perfect for a leisurely walk, and connects to other city trails for longer excursions.
Beyond the hiking, Walnut Creek Lake is a popular spot for fishing, stocked with bass, catfish, and bluegill. The recreation area also boasts picnic sites, a playground, and an RV park, making it a versatile destination for a full day out. Remember to follow the "pack in, pack out" policy to help keep this natural gem clean.
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2
hikers
2.82km
00:43
10m
10m
The WP6 loop from Papillion Second I Precinct offers a delightful, easy stroll through a mix of urban and natural landscapes. This 1.7-mile (2.8 km) route, with a gentle 35 feet (11 metres) of elevation gain, is mostly paved and winds along what feels like the banks of the Big Papillion Creek, providing green vistas and a chance to enjoy the outdoors. It's a perfect option for a quick, refreshing walk that takes just under an hour, around 43 minutes, making it accessible for nearly everyone.
Planning your visit to this easy trail is straightforward. The Papio trail system is well-maintained and generally features ample parking and amenities like picnic spots along its various sections. Since it's a short, easy loop, you can enjoy it at any time of day, and no special permits or fees are typically required. It's a great choice for a spontaneous outing or a regular part of your fitness routine.
This loop is part of the larger, interconnected Papio trail network, which is a significant asset to the Greater Omaha region's "Paths of Discovery." These trails are celebrated for their accessibility and for providing safe, car-free environments for recreation. The system often incorporates repurposed historical railroad segments, adding a unique historical touch to some areas, and connects to other regional trails like the Keystone Trail.
16
hikers
6.28km
01:36
20m
20m
The Prairie Queen Trail Loop offers a refreshing escape with constant views of the 135-acre Prairie Queen Lake. This easy 3.9-mile (6.3 km) hike, which takes about 1 hour and 36 minutes, follows a mostly paved path around the lake, showcasing wetlands and native grasses. While largely flat with only 73 feet (22 metres) of elevation gain, you'll encounter some gentle inclines and declines, making it a pleasant and accessible journey for all.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the Prairie Queen Recreation Area provides ample parking and facilities like public restrooms and picnic areas. The trail is pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your leashed dog along. Given the limited natural shade on much of the route, it's wise to consider sun protection or plan your hike during cooler times of the day.
Beyond hiking, the Prairie Queen Recreation Area is a hub for outdoor activities, featuring an 18-hole disc golf course, pickleball courts, and outdoor workout equipment. The lake, created in 2015, is stocked for fishing, and the Nebraska Memorial Forest within the park honors fallen military and first responders. It's a versatile spot for a full day of recreation.
15
hikers
The Prairie Queen Trail loop offers a wonderfully accessible and scenic hike around the 135-acre Prairie Queen Lake. This easy, paved route provides continuous views of the water, wetlands, and native grasses, making it a relaxing escape. You'll cover 4.0 miles (6.4 km) with just 74 feet (23 metres) of elevation gain, typically finishing in about 1 hour and 37 minutes, making it ideal for a leisurely walk or a family outing.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as parking at Prairie Queen Trailhead Richland I Precinct is available off Cornhusker Road and Lincoln Road. The trail is a year-round destination, though the lack of shade means you might prefer cooler mornings or evenings during summer. It's a great option if you're looking for an easy, well-maintained path suitable for all ages and skill levels.
Part of the larger Prairie Queen Recreation Area, this trail encircles an artificial reservoir created in 2015, which is now stocked for fishing. Beyond hiking, the area offers amenities like no-wake boating, picnic spots, and disc golf. You can also visit the Nebraska Memorial Forest within the recreation area, adding a reflective element to your trip.
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Tips from the Community
Prairie Queen Lake was made in 2015. It's a great place to hop off your bike for a rest!
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The smooth and paved trail surrounding the lake offers the perfect route for cycling enthusiasts to soak in the stunning views. As you pedal along, remember to share the path courteously with fellow users!
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The flat concrete trail around the lake is perfect for cycling and taking in the views. Just take care of other users of the path and be considerate.
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The recreation area is 450 acres, with a 105 acre reservoir. There is a great paved multi-use trail around the lake and a lovely green space next to the lake. Facilities include a parking lot, picnic areas and toilets. There are also various playgrounds, an equestrian trail and a leash-free dog park.
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Beautiful lake right in the residential area, the mix of residential areas and nature for relaxation is always successful here.
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Walnut Creek Lake is a beautiful area stocked with fish and open to all manner of outdoor activities. The lake is a popular spot on weekends.
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The Recreation Area has trails for horseback riding, biking, running, and walking. There are picnic areas and bathrooms all around the lake, which is stocked with fish and open for boating and fishing. There are RV sites nearby and multiple dog parks around the lake.
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The main trail around Walnut Creek Lake is paved and sunny with plenty of scenic views of the lake and surrounding area. The paved trail connects with a few other gravel and dirt paths where you can walk or bike in the park.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available in Big Elk Lake Recreation Area?
There are 10 easy hiking trails within the broader Big Elk Lake Recreation Area network. These routes offer gentle gradients suitable for various fitness levels.
Are the trails in Big Elk Lake Recreation Area suitable for families with children?
Yes, the trails are generally very family-friendly. The main 1.1-mile paved loop around Big Elk Lake is particularly suitable for all ages, offering a gentle and accessible experience. Many easy routes feature minimal elevation changes and scenic views, perfect for a leisurely family outing.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Big Elk Lake Recreation Area?
Yes, Big Elk Lake Recreation Area is generally dog-friendly. Most trails allow leashed dogs, making it a great place to enjoy a walk with your canine companion. Always ensure your dog is on a leash and you clean up after them.
What kind of natural features or landscapes can I expect to see on an easy hike here?
Easy hikes in Big Elk Lake Recreation Area primarily feature the central 13-acre lake, surrounded by 46 acres of park land and over 30 acres of native grassland. You'll encounter lakeside paths, open green spaces, and a large water quality basin that supports aquatic habitat. This environment offers opportunities for wildlife spotting, especially around the lake.
Are there any circular easy hiking routes in Big Elk Lake Recreation Area?
Yes, the recreation area features a dedicated 1.1-mile paved full-loop trail directly around Big Elk Lake. Additionally, routes like the Prairie Queen Trail Loop offer a 3.9-mile circular path through grassland and alongside water features, providing a pleasant loop experience.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Big Elk Lake Recreation Area?
The Big Elk Lake Recreation Area is pleasant for hiking throughout much of the year. Spring and fall offer comfortable temperatures and vibrant scenery, with changing foliage in autumn. Summer is also popular, but it's advisable to hike in the mornings or evenings to avoid the midday heat. Winter hikes are possible, especially on the paved sections, though conditions can vary.
What amenities are available at Big Elk Lake Recreation Area for hikers?
Beyond the trails, Big Elk Lake Recreation Area provides several amenities for visitors. These include picnic shelters, picnic tables, and restrooms, making it convenient for longer stays or family outings. There's also a kayak launch for those interested in water activities.
Where can I park for easy hikes in Big Elk Lake Recreation Area?
Parking is generally available within the Big Elk Lake Recreation Area, with designated parking lots near trailheads and amenities. The area is designed to be accessible, so finding a spot for your vehicle should not be an issue.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Big Elk Lake Recreation Area?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars. Reviewers often praise the accessible nature of the trails, the scenic views of the lake, and the peaceful atmosphere for a relaxing walk. The well-maintained paths and opportunities for wildlife observation are also frequently highlighted.
Are there any easy trails that offer views of the lake?
Yes, many of the easy trails offer excellent views of Big Elk Lake. The primary 1.1-mile paved loop trail directly encircles the lake, providing continuous scenic vistas. Other routes, such as the Walnut Creek Lake Trail, also provide picturesque views of the lake and its surrounding natural areas.
What is the typical duration for an easy hike in Big Elk Lake Recreation Area?
The duration of an easy hike varies depending on the chosen route. For instance, the Schwer Park Trail, which is 1.9 miles long, typically takes about 50 minutes to complete. Longer routes like the Prairie Queen Trail Loop (3.9 miles) can take around 1 hour 35 minutes.
Do I need a permit to hike in Big Elk Lake Recreation Area?
No, permits are generally not required for hiking the easy trails within Big Elk Lake Recreation Area. The park is open to the public for recreational use.
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