The best road cycling routes in Gifford State Forest
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Road cycling in Gifford State Forest features a network of paved routes primarily located around urban and suburban areas. The terrain is generally flat, with minimal elevation gain, making it suitable for various fitness levels. These routes often follow waterways like the Missouri River and Big Papio Trail, offering accessible cycling experiences through urban landscapes and green spaces.
Best road cycling routes in Gifford State Forest
- The most popular road cycling route is Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge – Bob Kerrey…
Last updated: June 28, 2026
6
riders
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
4
riders
50.2km
04:17
310m
310m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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46
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
3
riders
40.8km
02:12
270m
270m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
14
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Popular around Gifford State Forest
Tips from the Community
This large park has sports fields, trails, picnic areas, and a golf course. There's parking and access to trails that traverse the city so it's a good place to start and end a ride.
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The multi-use Keystone Trail is an important part of Omaha's urban to rural trail system. Linking many of the areas business districts, parks, and Universities to the surrounding rural areas. Much of the trail follows along Little Papillion Creek, with multiple bridges over the water.
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This 20-mile trail runs along the river and through downtown Omaha and multiple parks. It's a great way to get out and explore the city.
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You get a nice view of the river here, and could even park your bike and hop on a river cruise if you like. But the best thing about River Road (just south of you) is that it connects cycle-friendly paths on the north and south sides of I-80.
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This old railroad bridge reveals the origins of this stretch of trail: It was once part of the country's first transcontinental railroad.
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This pleasant, paved trail runs right past Seymour Smith Park, making it a great option for cycling north or south along the Papillion Creek corridor. Only a little over two miles of the Keystone Trail actually run over the railbed, but you can still see traces of that heritage in pilings, a lingering trestle, and one massive railroad bridge along the trail's length.
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At this spot you cross a nice bridge over West Papio Creek. The water is lined with rushes and tall grasses, which makes the water sometimes a little hard to see from the side, but makes it a popular spot with birds and other wildlife. This is a nice place to slow down and keep an eye out for them!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available in Gifford State Forest?
There are over 25 road cycling routes in Gifford State Forest, offering a variety of options for different skill levels. You'll find 6 easy routes, 20 moderate routes, and 1 challenging route to explore.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes in Gifford State Forest?
Road cycling in Gifford State Forest primarily features paved routes, riverfront paths, and multi-use trails. The terrain is generally flat with minimal elevation gain, making it suitable for various fitness levels. Routes often follow waterways like the Missouri River and Big Papio Trail, providing accessible cycling experiences through urban landscapes and green spaces.
Are there any family-friendly road cycling routes in Gifford State Forest?
Yes, many routes in Gifford State Forest are suitable for families due to their generally flat terrain and paved surfaces. Routes like the Keystone Trail – Elmwood Park loop from Omaha are rated as easy and offer a pleasant experience for all ages.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about road cycling in Gifford State Forest?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars from over 80 reviews. Cyclists often praise the well-maintained paved river trails and urban greenways, as well as the accessibility of routes that cater to different ability levels.
Are there any challenging road cycling routes for experienced riders?
While many routes are easy to moderate, there is at least one challenging route available for experienced riders. For example, the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge – Missouri River loop from Omaha is a longer route covering over 50 km with moderate elevation, offering a good workout.
What are some popular loop routes for road cycling?
Popular loop routes include the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge – Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge loop from Cinema, which offers riverfront views, and the Keystone Trail – Big Papio Trail loop from Omaha, traversing urban greenways.
Can I find routes that follow specific trails or landmarks?
Absolutely. Many routes incorporate well-known trails and landmarks. For instance, you can cycle along the Keystone Trail, the Big Papio Trail, or cross the iconic Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge on various routes.
What is the typical duration for road cycling routes in this area?
Route durations vary depending on distance and your pace. Shorter loops like the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge loop from Cinema can be completed in under an hour, while longer routes such as the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge – Missouri River loop from Omaha might take several hours.
Are there any specific viewpoints or scenic spots along the routes?
Many routes offer scenic views, particularly those that follow the Missouri River. The Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge itself provides excellent panoramic views of the river and the city skyline, and routes along the riverfront offer picturesque urban and natural landscapes.
Is Gifford State Forest the same as Gifford Pinchot State Park in Pennsylvania?
No, Gifford State Forest, as described in these road cycling routes, refers to the area around Omaha, Nebraska, characterized by riverfront paths and urban greenways. It is distinct from Gifford Pinchot State Park in Pennsylvania, which is known for its lake and wooded hillsides, or Gifford Pinchot National Forest in Washington State.
What kind of bikes are suitable for these routes?
The routes in Gifford State Forest are primarily on paved surfaces, riverfront paths, and multi-use trails, making them ideal for road bikes. Traditional bicycles and e-bikes are generally permitted on these designated trails and paths.
Most popular routes in Gifford State Forest
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