Fontenelle Forest

Fontenelle Forest offers 1,400 acres of pristine woodlands where families can explore over 26 miles of well-maintained trails, discover wildlife in their natural habitat, and enjoy hands-on learning at the nature center. With trails suitable for strollers and beginning hikers, plus engaging educational programs, it's a perfect outdoor classroom where kids can connect with nature right in the Omaha metro area.

• ✓26 miles of scenic hiking trails through diverse woodland habitats
• ✓Elevated boardwalk trail winding through floodplain forest with excellent wildlife viewing
• ✓Interactive nature center with live animals and hands-on exhibits
• ✓Educational programs including guided nature hikes and seasonal workshops
• ✓Observation tower offering panoramic forest views

1. 1.Start at the Visitor Center to grab a trail map and ask rangers about recent wildlife sightings,they'll point you toward where families have spotted deer, owls, or other animals that day
2. 2.The Boardwalk Trail is stroller-friendly and offers the best wildlife viewing opportunities, especially early morning or late afternoon when animals are most active
3. 3.Bring binoculars and a nature journal for kids to sketch or document what they see,the nature center often has free activity sheets to make it more engaging
4. 4.Wear layers and sturdy shoes; even in summer the forest trails stay cool and can be muddy after rain, and boardwalks can be slippery
5. 5.Check their website for special family programs and guided hikes before visiting,many are included with admission and provide excellent learning experiences

Visit on weekday mornings (8:00-10:00 AM) for the quietest experience and best wildlife viewing, or during fall (September-October) when the foliage is stunning and temperatures are comfortable for hiking. Weekends get busier but offer more scheduled family programs.

Admission fees apply (children under 2 are free). The nature center has restrooms and water fountains, but there's no food service on-site, so pack snacks and water. Most main trails are accessible, including the popular boardwalk trail which accommodates strollers and wheelchairs.

Open year-round with each season offering unique experiences,spring wildflowers, summer bird watching, fall foliage, and winter animal tracking in the snow. Some trails may close temporarily due to flooding in spring or icy conditions in winter. Special events include maple sugaring in late winter and nature camps in summer.

Head to Big Mama's Kitchen & Catering (5 minutes away) for comfort food and generous portions, or try HuHot Mongolian Grill in nearby Bellevue where kids can create their own stir-fry bowls and watch them cook.