The best traffic-free bike rides in Nebraska

Nebraska offers a wide selection of traffic-free road cycling routes. Our guide features nearly 50 routes, ranging from easy to challenging, ensuring there's something for every cyclist looking to explore the state's diverse landscapes without vehicle interference.

Yes, many of Nebraska's traffic-free routes are suitable for beginners and those looking for an easy ride. Over half of the routes in our guide are rated as easy, providing gentle terrain and well-maintained paths perfect for a relaxed cycling experience. For example, routes like the Big Papio Trail – Keystone Trail loop from Papillion offer accessible and enjoyable rides.

Nebraska's traffic-free routes often pass through or near unique natural attractions. You can explore areas like the Fontenelle Forest Nature Center, known for its virgin forest, or discover stunning geological formations. Some routes might even bring you close to the Platte River Valley, famous for its sandhill crane migration. For specific highlights, look for routes near Scotts Bluff National Monument or Stone Creek Falls.

Absolutely. Many no-traffic road cycling routes in Nebraska offer scenic views of lakes and other water bodies. You can find routes that pass by popular spots like Holmes Lake Park, Walnut Creek Recreation Area, or Glenn Cunningham Lake, providing beautiful backdrops for your ride.

The best time for no-traffic road cycling in Nebraska is generally from spring through fall. Spring offers pleasant temperatures and the chance to witness the sandhill crane migration along the Platte River. Summer is warm, ideal for early morning or late afternoon rides, while fall brings cooler weather and vibrant foliage. Be prepared for potential winds, especially in more open areas like the Sandhills, regardless of the season.

While many routes are moderate, Nebraska does offer options for more experienced riders seeking a challenge. Some routes, particularly those venturing into areas like the Sandhills, can present longer distances and more remote conditions. For example, the Old railroad bridge and dam – Papillion Lake loop from Oak View Mall offers a moderate challenge with over 50 km of riding.

Yes, many of the traffic-free road cycling routes in Nebraska are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. This is convenient for parking and eliminates the need for shuttle arrangements. Examples include the Big Papio Trail – Big Papio Trail loop from Bellevue Second I Precinct and the Halleck Park Arboretum – Papillion Creek loop from Park & Bike Path.

Nebraska is home to several well-known multi-use trails that are excellent for traffic-free road cycling. The Cowboy Trail is a significant example, offering hundreds of miles, with many sections paved or crushed limestone, traversing varied terrain including the unique Sandhills. Other popular options include the MoPac Trail and the Keystone Trail, often found near urban centers and providing paved, easygoing paths.

The no-traffic road cycling routes in Nebraska are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.38 out of 5 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the peacefulness of the paths, the scenic beauty of the diverse landscapes—from rolling Sandhills to river valleys—and the well-maintained surfaces that make for an enjoyable ride away from vehicle traffic.

While not directly on a road cycling route, the region around western Nebraska offers dramatic geological formations like Chimney Rock National Historic Site and Toadstool Geologic Park. Cyclists exploring the western part of the state might find routes that offer views or access points to these unique areas, showcasing Nebraska's 'otherworldly' desert landscapes and historical landmarks.

For cyclists seeking a more advanced experience, Nebraska offers routes that, while traffic-free, present longer distances or more varied terrain. While our guide features mostly easy to moderate routes, some of the longer loops, such as the Hastings Banner Park – Big Papio Trail loop from Baxter Arena, can provide a good workout. Exploring sections of the Cowboy Trail, especially those with crushed chert or gravel, can also offer a more challenging adventure.