Two States, One Bridge, Endless Adventure
Omaha, Neb., and Council Bluffs, Iowa, join forces for the ultimate urban trail system.
Farnam Pier at Heart of America Park in Omaha, Neb.
Cross the Missouri River on foot. It’s the best urban hike you've never taken.
A remarkable trail system straddles the border between Omaha, Neb., and Council Bluffs, Iowa. On one side, the skyline of Downtown Omaha rises above the Missouri River. To the east, a grassy park in Council Bluffs entertains walkers, children and practicing soccer teams. It sets the standard for urban trails. There are no piles of garbage or dilapidated, boarded up buildings. The area also has a natural vibrance without the stench of factories or the grit of industry.
This trail system is actually the combined footpaths of several parks spread over two states. They are all connected by the 3,000-foot-long Bob Kerry Pedestrian bridge, which spans the Missouri River. The bridge offers sweeping views of the river, the Omaha skyline and Iowa’s Loess Hills. It takes on a different appearance at night when it’s illuminated by colorful lights.
Nebraska side
The paved trails on the Nebraska side run through the Gene Leahy Mall, Heartland of America Park and Lewis and Clark Landing, which is a National Park site. The northern terminus is at Miller’s Landing, a city park on the riverfront about a half-mile north of Downtown. There is not a singular trail, but a series of interconnected paved pathways. They run through or near a staggering series of attractions, including:
Conagra Lake and fountains
Farnham Pier
Gene Leahy Dog Park
Discovery Playground
Riverfront Sand Volleyball Court
The Kiewit Luminarium
Monument to Labor
Skate Ribbon (roller skate park)
Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Headquarters and Visitor Center
The trails are also within walking distance of historic Downtown Omaha’s brick-street Old Market.
Iowa side
The Iowa side, connected by the Bob Kerry Pedestrian Bridge, is quieter but scenic, centered in Tom Hanafan River's Edge Park. In addition to a wide open walking spaces, the park offers a splash pad and a playground called Belles' Play Garden. Additional attractions are under construction. Those wanting to continue a walk on the Iowa side can trek the Council Bluffs Levy Road, which heads north and south of Tom Hanafan park and is open to pedestrians.
Length
The length of your walk will be determined by your route. There are about two miles of paved trails in the immediate vicinity of the Bob Kerry Pedestrian Bridge. Retracing your route can double this. In addition, there are trail extensions along levies and other connectors that can result in more than 12 miles of trails.
Address and location From Kansas City, it’s about three hours to Downtown Omaha/Council Bluffs. Once you’ve arrived, there are multiple places to access the trail system. These include:
Lewis and Clark Landing, 601 Riverfront Drive, Omaha, Neb., 68102
Miller’s Landing, 151 Freedom Park Road, Omaha, Neb., 68110
Street parking in Downtown Omaha
Tom Hanafan River’s Edge Park, 4200 Avenue B, Council Bluffs, Iowa 51501
Conditions
These trails are paved, well-maintained and busy. They are used by bikers and walkers. The only significant elevation change is the grade to access the Bob Kerry Pedestrian Bridge. In its vicinity, there are some stairways, but most are optional. There is very little shade on this trail, but shaded areas are available for breaks.Kid friendly? There are many amenities for children and the walk is easy. Parents will want to be mindful of passing cyclists and busy areas where kids could wander off.
How busy? This is a prime recreational location for residents of Omaha and Council Bluffs along with tourists.
Pets Yes, on a leash.
Bikes Yes, unless posted otherwise.
Restrooms are available on the Nebraska side at the Omaha Skate Ribbon, Lewis and Clark National Historic Center and at the Discovery Playground at Lewis and Clark Landing. On the Iowa side, restrooms are available at River’s Edge Pavilion and near Belle’s Play Garden.
The Bob Kerry Pedestrian Bridge, connecting Omaha, Neb., and Council Bluffs, Iowa.
The Bob Kerry Pedestrian Bridge, connecting Omaha, Neb., and Council Bluffs, Iowa.
The Bob Kerry Pedestrian Bridge, connecting Omaha, Neb., and Council Bluffs, Iowa.
Tom Hanafan River's Edge Park, Council Bluffs, Iowa.