Photo: Alesha White
Photo: Jerry
Photo: Tessa
Wilderness Park
★4.6(256 reviews)FreePark
🕑 2-4 hours👶 Best for ages 4 and up. The trails range from easy to moderate, making them accessible for young elementary-aged kids who can handle longer walks. Older kids and teens will love the mountain biking trails and more challenging terrain, while preschoolers can enjoy shorter creek-side walks.🧡 Saved by 100+ families
About
Wilderness Park is Lincoln's natural oasis spanning over 1,400 acres, offering families an authentic outdoor adventure without leaving the city. With miles of winding trails through wooded areas, creek access for splashing and exploration, and abundant wildlife spotting opportunities, it's the perfect destination for families wanting to unplug and reconnect with nature.
Highlights
- ✓Over 8 miles of hiking trails through beautiful wooded areas and prairies
- ✓Creek access with shallow areas perfect for kids to explore and splash
- ✓Wildlife spotting including deer, birds, turtles, and occasionally foxes
- ✓Mountain biking trails for adventurous families
- ✓Wooden footbridges that cross the creek, making for great photo ops
Pro Tips
- 1.Park at the north trailhead off West A Street for easier, shorter loops perfect for younger kids, or use the south entrance for more extensive trail systems
- 2.Bring creek shoes or old sneakers,kids will inevitably want to wade in the shallow creek areas, especially near the wooden bridges
- 3.Visit after a light rain for the best creek flow and wildlife activity, but avoid during heavy rain as trails can become muddy and slippery
- 4.Pack bug spray during summer months as mosquitoes can be active in the wooded areas, especially near the creek
- 5.Download an offline trail map or grab one at the trailhead,it's easy to lose your way with so many intersecting paths
Best Time to Visit
Early morning (7-9 AM) on weekdays offers the best wildlife viewing and cooler temperatures in summer. Spring and fall provide the most comfortable weather for hiking, while Saturday mornings can get crowded with bikers and runners on the main trails.
What to Know
Parking and admission are completely free at multiple trailhead locations. There are no restrooms or water fountains within the park, so come prepared with water and snacks, and plan bathroom breaks before arriving.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round, but each season offers unique experiences. Spring brings wildflowers and flowing creeks; summer offers full tree canopy shade; fall features stunning foliage; winter allows for peaceful snow hiking. Trails can be icy in winter and muddy during spring thaw.
Nearby Eats
Head to Runza (about 5 minutes north) for Nebraska's signature sandwiches and kid-friendly meals, or stop by Raising Cane's on South Street for chicken fingers that please even picky eaters after a morning of hiking.
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