Be part of one of the US's greatest migrations on the Platte River.

Only 8 miles from downtown, this diverse 3.4-mile loop curves gently around a pair of crystal-clear lakes (bring binocs to watch waterfowl) to an old trading post.

Hikers must follow unofficial, angler, or game trails for most of this 3.1-mile circumnavigation of Conestoga Lake, a popular roosting ground for upland birds and gobblers.

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.

Travel back 19 million years on this easy 1.1-miler that skirts fossilized burrows, roots, and Miocene-era remains in Nebraska's Agate Fossil Bends National Monument.

The crumbling caprock and sheer sandstone faces of Scotts Bluff frightened Oregon Trail-era emigrants, but they're the draw on this challenging, 3.8-mile out-and-back that climbs 500 feet up the towering massif.

Roam Nebraska's Niobrara River valley, just like the rhino-sized Menoceras did 20 million years ago. This wheelchair-accessible 2.9-miler climbs to one of the world's most important bonebed excavation sites.

Cut through Mitchell Pass and follow in the footsteps of Oregon Trail emigrants on this easy, 1.1-mile out-and-back in Nebraska's Scotts Bluff National Monument.

Climb a lone butte (and spend a few minutes exploring its rugged base) on this easy 1.5-mile loop that offers a panoramic peek at Chadron State Park's rugged terrain.

Dip into hidden valleys, skirt rugged buttes, and even surprise a few wild turkeys on this 5.2-miler that loops from top to bottom of Nebraska's Pine Ridge in Chadron State Park.

Explore an unknown Nebraska wilderness for a surprising dose of rolling hills, wildlife, and solitude.

There's not a bad napping spot anywhere.