The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Edward Zorinsky Recreation Area
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Family friendly hiking trails in Edward Zorinsky Recreation Area traverse over 1,000 acres of public land, centered around the 255-acre Zorinsky Lake. The area features an extensive network of mostly paved paths, winding through open parkland, wooded sections, and a native tallgrass prairie. These trails offer minimal elevation change, providing accessible options for various skill levels. The landscape is characterized by the expansive lake, diverse woodlands, and the protected Bauermeister Prairie.
Best family friendly hiking trails in Edward Zorinsky Recreation…
Last updated: July 8, 2026
5.0
(1)
19
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5.04km
01:18
20m
20m
Embark on an easy hike along the Zorinsky Lake Trail, a 3.1-mile (5.0 km) route that offers a pleasant escape into nature. You will enjoy continuous views of the expansive…
5.0
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17
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7.02km
01:49
40m
40m
The Zorinsky Lake Trail offers a refreshing escape into nature right in Omaha, providing a predominantly paved and wide path that makes for an easy 4.4-mile (7.0 km) hike. You'll…
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5.0
(1)
17
hikers
8.05km
02:04
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
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7
hikers
4.97km
01:16
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.34km
01:08
30m
30m
The Whitehawk Park and Lake Loop offers a delightful escape into nature, winding through a varied landscape of open meadows and shaded woodlands. You'll encounter the tranquil Whitehawk Lake early…
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Tips from the Community
Cycling this path around Zorinsky Lake is a fine opportunity to see Bauermeister Prairie, one of the few remaining native tall-grass prairies in this part of the state.
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The lake is nice and open and you can walk down to the water from the grass the entire way around. A dam blocks the lake at the northern end.
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Named in honor of Senator Edward Zorinsky of Omaha, this park features a sprawling 255-acre lake, perfect for boating and fishing enthusiasts alike. It's a great spot to hop off the bike and take a swim or rest!
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There are clusters of trees along Whitehawk Creek that offer some shade as the trail loops around past the baseball fields.
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The lake is nice and open and you can walk down to the water from the grass the entire way around. A dam blocks the lake is at the northern end.
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The Whitehawk Lake Trail is paved and winds around the lake before crossing the street and looping around Whitehead Creek to the south. The trails are well maintained and in a safe part of town.
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Zorinsky Dam was created in 1984 as part of an initiative to protect the city of Lincoln from flooding. The area became a state park in 1993. The dam blocks Papillion (Papio) Creek, as does Wehrspann Dam to the south.
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The Zorinsky Lake Trail is paved and runs the perimeter of the lake. The trail takes you over Boxelder Creek and the wetlands to the west of Lake Zorinsky.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are there in Edward Zorinsky Recreation Area?
Edward Zorinsky Recreation Area offers a good selection of family-friendly hiking trails, with over 15 routes suitable for various ages and abilities. Most of these are rated as easy, making them perfect for outings with children.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in Edward Zorinsky Recreation Area?
The trails in Edward Zorinsky Recreation Area are largely paved, providing smooth surfaces suitable for strollers and young children. You'll find paths winding through open parkland, wooded sections, and even a native tallgrass prairie, offering diverse scenery with minimal elevation changes.
Are there any easy loop trails suitable for families?
Yes, there are several easy loop trails perfect for families. The Whitehawk Park and Lake Loop is a great option, covering about 4.3 km with gentle inclines. Many segments of the larger Zorinsky Lake Trail also form shorter, manageable loops.
Can we bring strollers on the trails?
Absolutely! Many of the trails, especially those around Zorinsky Lake, are paved and well-maintained, making them ideal for strollers. This ensures that even the youngest family members can enjoy the outdoors comfortably.
What natural features or landmarks can we see along the trails?
The centerpiece is the expansive 255-acre Zorinsky Lake, offering picturesque views. You can also explore the 190-acre Bauermeister Prairie, a protected area rich in native plants and animals. The trails also pass through woodlands and open fields, providing varied natural beauty.
Is Edward Zorinsky Recreation Area a good place for wildlife spotting with kids?
Yes, it's an excellent spot for wildlife! Families often spot deer, wild turkeys, songbirds, ducks, and geese. During winter, bald eagles can be sighted, and great blue herons are frequently seen near the lake. It's a fantastic place for birdwatching and observing nature.
Are dogs allowed on the family-friendly trails?
Yes, Edward Zorinsky Recreation Area is generally dog-friendly. Dogs are permitted on the trails, but they must be kept on a leash. Please remember to clean up after your pet to keep the park enjoyable for everyone.
What facilities are available for families at the park?
The park is very family-friendly, offering two playgrounds, baseball and soccer fields, and picnic shelters with grills and restrooms. These amenities make it easy to spend a full day enjoying the outdoors with children.
Where can we park when visiting Edward Zorinsky Recreation Area for a hike?
Edward Zorinsky Recreation Area offers ample parking at various access points around the lake. There are multiple parking lots conveniently located near trailheads and park facilities, making it easy to start your family hike.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Edward Zorinsky Recreation Area?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained, paved trails, the beautiful lake views, and the peaceful atmosphere that makes it perfect for family outings and nature observation.
Are there any shorter walks suitable for very young children?
Yes, you can easily adapt the longer trails into shorter walks. For example, the Zorinsky Lake Trail offers segments as short as 3.1 miles (west loop) or 4.4 miles (east loop), and you can always turn back at any point to create a custom, shorter route.
When is the best time of year to hike with kids in Edward Zorinsky Recreation Area?
Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, making them ideal for family hikes. Summer mornings and evenings are also great to avoid the midday heat. Even in winter, the paved trails can be accessible for a crisp walk, with the added chance of spotting bald eagles.
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