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