“The antidote to exhaustion isn’t rest. It’s nature.” – Shikoba

A tree-lined, dirt trail experience created for mountain bikes and greatfully shared with hikers, walkers and runners.  We will be in the shade much of the time.  Bright clothing is recommended to be visible to bikers!!

A gem for hiking and experiencing the Loess Hills.  10-miles of unpaved trails with multiple loops, ups and downs.  Entry does require a day pass (unless you have an annual pass) that can be purchased on site at the entrance for $5/vehicle.  

Tucked in the Ponca Hills area of north Omaha just east of the Missouri River you'll find both well groomed and more rustic trails through the trees.  And for added fun, a roughly 165 stone stairway and some wooden stairs for simpler navigation across some of the terrain.  The view of the river valley is worth the hike.

This may be the least known and least technical trail of our series.  Great views, low grade and plenty of wildlife.  Tucked between Cunningham Lake and Golden Arrow Archery Range, offers a fair amount of tree cover and sunset views.  

Recently refreshed, Lake Cunningham offers a fully paved 6.2 mile trail around the circumference of the lake.  Also hosts a disc golf course, paddleboard and kayak rentals, campground, and a variety of events throughout the year.  There are multiple entrances on the north, south and west sides of the lake.  All offer parking.  No entrance fees. 

Fort Atkinson was officially established during the Yellowstone Expedition of 1819. Named after the Expedition’s commander, Col. Henry Atkinson, it was the first U.S. military post west of the Missouri River. During it’s existence, between 1820 and 1827, it served as the first school and library in Nebraska.  NOW it is host to candlelight tours, reenactments, a visitor center and cross country meets.  It's a mowed trail among native grasses.  State Park sticker required to park on site.

The "in-between" seasons are the BEST for getting outside!! Easy swap layers will be key!  Stocking caps are easy on/off.  So are gloves. Tank top, long sleeve tee and zip up windbreaker work well. Unwanted top layers can tie around your waist! Lightweight wool socks. Hiking boots or trail runners. Sunglasses. Easy to carry water bottle. 

Don't be scared!!  Winter hiking is invigorating!! You will want a stocking cap, wool socks and hiking boots, gloves & sunglasses if it's bright and/or snowy. I suggest a snug base layer, mid-layer to keep that heat in (like a sweater/sweatshirt) and an outer layer to keep the cold out (water resistance and breathability are good benchmarks!) Wearing a baselayer on the bottom is also good but remember, YOU WILL WARM UP WHEN YOU ARE MOVING!! I promise!! Bring handwarmers if you hate cold;-)

Shifty temps, hit and miss sunshine and ever-varied wind will impact how we dress for spring hiking.  Also, it is possible to have snow and rain depending on temps.  Layers and shoes with a little traction will be your friends!  Wind breaker jackets with pockets are an excellent choice.  Hats and gloves can be stashed in the pockets when it gets warmer than expected.  While vests are one of my favorites, PRO TIP...they do not tie around your waist for easy transport when you've warmed up.  Don't

Summer hiking in Nebraska offers varying temps and humidity levels.  Typically you can count on it being warm sweaty!!  Consider shorts or lightweight leggings, t-shirt or tank, sunscreen, water (at least to keep in the car if you don't like to carry it), a ballcap or some kind of headcover and sunglasses.  Bugspray is a good idea as well.  If you think the temps might shift, grab a long sleeve shirt that can tie around your waist.