BEST PLACES FOR HIKING WITH KIDS IN THE OMAHA AREA

Are you ready for family adventures this Summer? Get ready for an exciting hiking experience with your family that will leave you with memories to cherish forever. Omaha is full of beautiful hiking and walking trails where you can discover the wonders of nature. From lush forests to cute critters, there's so much to see and explore. So pack your water bottles, put on your best hiking shoes, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through Omaha's breathtaking wilderness!

Desoto National Wildlife Refuge

Location: 1434 316th Lane, Missouri Valley, IA

Cost: Daily entrance fees per vehicle.

Visit DeSoto’s Visitor Center, Auto tour route, Hiking trails, Steamboat Bertrand Discovery Site.

Note: DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge limits access to some of the refuge roads during the fall and spring waterfowl migration season. This includes the south entrance gate, as well as the south and east side of the loop road. This limited access is in effect each year from October 15-April 14.

EUGENE T. MAHONEY STATE PARK

Location: 28500 West Park Hwy, Ashland, NE

Cost: Park Entry Permit is required. Families can visit the aquatic center and indoor playground, explore the park’s hiking and biking trails, climb the observation tower and enjoy sledding and ice skating during the Winter months.

Fontenelle Forest

Location: 1111 Bellevue Blvd N, Bellevue

Cost: Memberships available.* Trails, boardwalk, children’s play areas, special programming and classes throughout year.

*Note: Members of Omaha Public Libraries, Council Bluffs Public Library, and Bellevue Public Library can check out a pass to visit Fontenelle Forest!

Henry Doorly Zoo And Aquarium

Location: 3701 S. 10th Street, Omaha

Cost: Memberships available.

One of our favorite Omaha treasures, the Zoo provides many walking areas to view the animals and a playground.

Heron Haven

Location: 11809 Old Maple Rd., Omaha

Cost: Free. Donations welcome.

Heron Haven is a spring-fed wetland sanctuary with trails and special programming throughout year, including family-friendly 2nd Saturday events.

Hitchcock Nature

CENTER

Location: 27792 Ski Hill Loop, Honey Creek, IA

Cost: Park Permit Required.

Picturesque area full of hiking trails, an observation tower, Visitors Center, and fun special events. Find out more about the scenic trails here!