The Omaha metro is home to many excellent mountain bike trails. Whether you’re a beginner or veteran of single-track traces, there’s something for all experience levels. Grab your helmet and don’t forget to B.Y.O.B (bring your own bike) to these off-road hotspots.
Jewel Park
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688-730 Combs RoadrBellevue, NE 68005rDifficulty: intermediate/advancedrrDon’t let Jewel Park’s shorter, 3-mile-long loop fool you—this trail is a complete cardio workout. Nestled in the luscious foliage of Bellevue’s nature scene, you can expect steep climbs right from the beginning of this more-advanced trail. If you are up for the challenge, the easily visible trail markers and multiple log jumps on this roller coaster-like ride make Jewel Park a must-do. Plus, take a moment to say hello to the playful pups at Jewel’s popular dog park, located next to this ride’s trailhead.r
Lewis and Clark Monument
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19962 Monument RoadrCouncil Bluffs, IA 51503rDifficulty: intermediate/advancedrrTake a short trip to the Iowa side of the Missouri River for this 5-mile-long ride, which begins at the historic Lewis and Clark Monument. Snap a selfie with the breathtaking westward view before you hit this single-loop trail. You can expect to test your technical skills with short, steep climbs and fast-paced fun, along with some easy-to-miss gems along this intermediate-to-advanced ride.r
Platte River State Park
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14421 346th St.rLouisville, NE 68037rDifficulty: intermediaterrFor those willing to drive south of town to the Platte River, the network of trails at Platte River State Park is worth a trip. This park offers 8 miles of single-track mountain biking and the longest route on our list. Scenic streams and densely packed trees make a beautiful backdrop for these versatile trails, which offer rides for almost any skill level.r
Swanson Park
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3110 Cornhusker RoadrBellevue, NE 68147rDifficulty: beginner/intermediaterrIf you’re looking for a ride without an abundance of difficult climbs or technical maneuvers, Swanson Park’s 6-mile trail is the place to go. Located on the outskirts of Bellevue, this spot is a short commute for Omaha-dwellers looking for a slower-paced afternoon ride. Take the single-track loop multiple times to work up a sweat, and then explore the smaller network of connecting trails that Swanson Park has to offer.r
Walnut Creek Park
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11601 S. 96th St.rPapillion, NE 68046rDifficulty: intermediaterrYou’ll find the Walnut Creek biking trails just south of Papillion, where this 3-mile-long ride travels through open spaces and twists around low-hanging tree branches. Although most of this ride is considered beginner-friendly, cyclists should be prepared for sharp turns and challenging curves on this fun, looped circuit. Remember to keep an eye out for pedestrian cross-traffic as you speed your way through this tougher route.
Tranquility Park
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12222 W. Maple RoadrOmaha, NE 68164rDifficulty: beginnerrrTranquility Park is a popular go-to route for novice cyclists and those looking to brush up on their biking skills. This 6-mile-long ride is located in northwest Omaha and offers a low-impact, high-fun space to get comfortable on your wheels. Regardless of your skill level, you can grab your helmet and get going for a fun afternoon on this easier single-track trail.
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rThis article was printed in the May 2019 edition of Omaha Magazine. To receive the magazine, click here to subscribe.
