The best running trails around Lincoln

Start your jogging session on the Holmes Lake Park loop, an easy 2.4-mile (3.8 km) route that offers continuous views of Holmes Lake. You will encounter a gentle mix of paved and crushed gravel surfaces as you make your way around the water. The trail includes a mild ascent and descent over the dam embankment, providing a slight challenge to its 35 feet (11 metres) of elevation gain. This pleasant circuit is designed for a quick workout, typically taking about 27 minutes to complete.

Parking is generally accessible at Holmes Lake Park, making it convenient to start your run. You can find restrooms available within the park during certain seasons, so plan accordingly if you need facilities. Be aware that the trail itself offers limited shade, which is something to consider on sunny days. Due to its popularity, you might encounter many other users on the path, so be mindful of shared space.

This loop provides a refreshing escape, acting as a green oasis nestled within the city of Lincoln. As you jog, you will pass over a few bridges and alongside a golf course, adding variety to the scenery. It's a well-maintained urban trail that allows you to enjoy nature without venturing far from the city amenities.

Lace up your shoes for a refreshing jogging experience on the Billy Wolff Trail, an easy 2.7-mile (4.3 km) route in Lincoln. You will find a smooth, paved path that winds through green spaces, offering a pleasant atmosphere for your run. With a minimal elevation gain of just 25 feet (8 metres) over an estimated 26 minutes, this trail is perfect for a quick, accessible workout. As you go, you will pass by notable spots like the Folsom Children's Zoo and Botanical Gardens, adding visual interest to your journey.

When planning your visit, remember that the Billy Wolff Trail is designed for ease of access, making it suitable for joggers of all levels. While the route largely avoids major road crossings thanks to 15 below-grade underpasses, be aware that a few significant roadways will still require careful navigation. The trail is open year-round, and its paved surface makes it a good option even after light rain. Consider starting your run in the morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and pleasant light.

This trail is a vital part of Lincoln's extensive network, connecting seamlessly with other popular routes such as the Rock Island Trail and the Holmes Lake Trail. It follows Antelope Creek through several parks, including Antelope Park and Holmes Lake Park, providing a continuous green corridor through the city. The Billy Wolff Trail offers a unique blend of urban convenience and natural beauty, making it a central hub for outdoor activity in the area.

The Billy Wolff Trail offers an easy jogging experience through varied scenery, perfect for a quick outing. You will cover 2.8 miles (4.5 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 58 feet (18 metres), typically taking around 27 minutes to complete. As you jog, you will pass through several parks, alongside Antelope Creek, and even glimpse the beautiful Sunken Gardens, a notable landmark along the paved path.

Planning your visit to the Billy Wolff Trail is straightforward, with generally available parking making it convenient to start your run. The route features numerous below-grade crossings, which helps minimize interactions with street traffic for a smoother experience. However, be aware that underpasses can sometimes be prone to flooding, especially after heavy rainfall, so check conditions if there has been recent heavy weather.

Located within Antelope Park, this trail provides a pleasant connection to nature right within the city. The paved route winds through natural landscapes, newer neighborhoods, and even some shopping districts, offering a diverse backdrop for your jog. It is an excellent option if you are looking for an accessible and enjoyable way to stay active outdoors.

Embark on a moderate jogging route that blends urban park views with natural wilderness. The Rock Island and Jamaica North Trail Loop spans 7.7 miles (12.4 km), offering a diverse experience as you cover its 174 feet (53 metres) of elevation gain. You can expect to complete this loop in about 1 hour and 19 minutes. The route transitions from the paved Rock Island Trail, passing city parks, to the concrete and crushed limestone of the Jamaica North Trail, winding through the expansive Wilderness Park. A notable feature is the pedestrian bridge connecting these two distinct sections over the BNSF railroad tracks, creating a seamless journey.

This accessible loop is a great option for a solid workout, easily reached from various points within Lincoln. Both the Rock Island and Jamaica North Trails are former rail-trails, ensuring largely flat and easy-to-navigate paths. You will find parking readily available near the trailheads or adjacent parks, making it convenient to begin your jogging adventure. The central location means you can connect to numerous parks and neighborhoods along the way.

This route stands out for its combination of two popular Lincoln trails, providing varied terrain and scenery. As you jog through Wilderness Park on the Jamaica North Trail section, keep an eye out for local wildlife such as deer and wild turkeys amidst the natural surroundings and ample shade. The Rock Island Trail portion offers views of city parks like Antelope Park and the Lincoln Children's Zoo, adding an urban touch to your run.