Keystone Trail

This road cycling loop offers a fantastic blend of Omaha's urban charm and natural beauty, taking you from the University of Nebraska at Omaha through the green expanse of Memorial Park and out to the serene Glenn Cunningham Lake. You'll enjoy mostly paved surfaces as you cycle past the vibrant Omaha Society Rose Garden and alongside the picturesque lake, where you might spot local wildlife. It's a moderate 26.5-mile (42.6 km) ride with 668 feet (203 metres) of elevation gain, making it a rewarding journey that takes about 2 hours and 28 minutes.

The route primarily uses Omaha's well-maintained paved trail system, including the Keystone Trail and the Glenn Cunningham Lake Trail, which are multi-use paths. There are no specific permits or fees required, and the trails are generally accessible. Given the varied scenery, it's a great option for a pleasant ride during most daylight hours, allowing you to experience both cityscapes and natural areas.

What makes this loop stand out is its excellent connectivity, thanks to the recent extension of the Keystone Trail to Glenn Cunningham Lake. This allows for a seamless transition between different environments, from the academic setting of UNO to the recreational hub of Memorial Park, and finally to the expansive natural beauty surrounding the lake. It's a prime example of Omaha's

The Keystone Trail – Cunningham Lake Bridge loop from Benson High School offers a diverse road cycling experience, winding through Omaha's varied landscapes. You'll follow the Papillion Creek corridor, transitioning from urban areas to views of parks, golf courses, and even agricultural expanses. The ride culminates in a scenic loop around Lake Cunningham, providing picturesque water views and a refreshing change of pace from the city. Keep an eye out for historical features like an old railroad bridge and a wooden trestle along the way.

Planning your visit to this popular route is straightforward, as it's part of Omaha's extensive paved trail system. While the trail uses underpasses to avoid many road crossings, be mindful that navigating the Fort Street crossing can be challenging, even with safety measures in place. The route is generally accessible, but some older concrete sections might have uneven slabs, which road cyclists should be aware of. No permits are needed for this ride.

This moderate 41.6-mile (66.9 km) loop, with 1443 feet (440 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 3 hours and 20 minutes, is a significant part of Omaha's cycling network. It connects various urban and natural areas, serving both commuters and recreational users. The combination of the Keystone Trail's gentle rolling hills and the slight elevations around Lake Cunningham contributes to its moderate difficulty, making it a rewarding ride for those with a good level of fitness.