Omaha: Platte River State Park

In 3.3 miles, hike two loops—one leads to campsites and a lovely waterfall, while the other sneaks along ridges and gullies perfect for nature photography.

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Trail Facts

  • Distance: 4.0

Waypoints

BCT001

Location: 40.9907188415527, -96.2128829956055

Before you go: Climb the 85-ft. tower for big panoramas over the green treetops and blue strands of the Platte River.

Trail leads NW onto a lush lawn with Indian tepees

BCT002

Location: 40.9915084838867, -96.2146072387695

Turn R; turn L @ bridge, up fairly steep hill and stay on the northernmost track along barbed-wire fence

BCT003

Location: 40.9921188354492, -96.2174987792969

Trail crests hill near tent platforms (permit required); swing SW to park’s amphitheater. Cross paved lot and pick up trail again to L of stage

BCT004

Location: 40.9898986816406, -96.2200012207031

Turn L, staying on trail under a hardwood canopy

BCT005

Location: 40.9900016784668, -96.2180633544922

R @ Y; cross bridge to a small cascade which transforms into icicle shapes in winter. Continue along creeklet

BCT006

Location: 40.9910011291504, -96.2164535522461

Cross bridge; go R @ 2nd bridge, backtracking uphill. Just after WPT 2, turn L onto side trail; this starts 2nd loop

BCT007

Location: 40.9917488098144, -96.2142868041992

Continue straight. This leg of the hike runs a beautiful wooded ridge with lots of deer tracks

BCT008

Location: 40.9931335449219, -96.2085494995117

Leave ridge; drop into Owen Crossing (RR bridge on L); continue E

BCT009

Location: 40.992733001709, -96.2012329101562

After a short climb past a few spur trails, turn L onto horse path that snakes through hardwood-dominated gullies

BCT010

Location: 40.9936981201172, -96.2013702392578

Waterfowl call from Platte River islands. Keep winding though woods

BCT011

Location: 40.9919319152832, -96.1986312866211

Turn R; head W. In .1 mi., this trail rejoins WPT 9. Continue straight, backtracking to trailhead