Extending north from the 144th Street Trail, the Standing Bear Lake and Recreation Area Trail spans over four miles around Standing Bear Lake and the surrounding neighborhoods and parkland. A popular path for cyclists and runners, the concrete trail runs on mostly flat, shaded ground in this scenic corner of northwest Omaha.
The lake, which was built for flood control purposes and is now used as a fishing and boating site, is named for Standing Bear, a chief of the Ponca tribe who fought successfully to have Native Americans recognized as having civil rights under the law. Situated among quiet residential neighborhoods, the lake and park offer a tranquil recreation experience, with the trail taking users around nearly the entire perimeter of the water before leading off to the west, coming to an end in Saddlebrook Park.
Whether you're out for a family picnic, looking to retreat into nature, or just trying to get in some outdoor exercise, the Standing Bear Lake and Recreation Area Trail is a great option for those in the Omaha area.
Parking is available at the western end of the trail at the public library and community center just south of the end of the trail in Saddlebrook Park, located at 14850 Laurel Avenue in Omaha. Additional parking is available along the trail at several lots around the lake. Be sure to check the city of Omaha's official trail site for construction/closure notices before hitting the trail.
Good for biking/walking. As of July 2023 the lake is drained, floating bridge is closed and part of the trail is under construction. It is still possible to make a full loop including the floating bridge if you ignore signs and go around closed fence
Nice walking or biking trail. Even better now that the floating bridge is completed so you don’t have to ride on 144th.
8/7/20 walked 2 1/2 hours. Parked at 132/fort lot. Rear car window broken and purse stole. Purse was hidden under a blanket. Smashed and grabbed.
This is my go too bike trail as it has small hills for a great first time biker. The view is beautiful with lakes and nature.
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