Nine-Mile Prairie
A rare remnant tallgrass prairie offering profound quiet and a glimpse into untouched natural landscapes. Perfect for peaceful walks and nature observ...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful solitude awaits
Nine-Mile Prairie
Best Time
Peaceful solitude awaits
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A rare remnant tallgrass prairie offering profound quiet and a glimpse into untouched natural landscapes. Perfect for peaceful walks and nature observation.
"A beautiful tallgrass prairie where you can walk and enjoy some quiet time."
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes for walking on natural prairie terrain.
🤫 Embrace the Quiet
Visit on weekdays for a chance to have the entire prairie to yourself.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Untouched Tallgrass Prairie
Eastern Nebraska
Experience one of the last intact tallgrass prairies, a glimpse into pre-colonization landscapes. Listen to the wind and birds.
Tranquil Solitude
Throughout the prairie
Enjoy profound quiet and a sense of peace, often with no other visitors. Perfect for reflection and connecting with nature.
University Research Site
Managed by University of Nebraska
See a living laboratory for grassland studies. Learn about prairie ecology and conservation efforts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Quiet: Timing is Key
Navigate the Wild: Trails & Terrain
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes for walking on natural prairie terrain.
🤫 Embrace the Quiet
Visit on weekdays for a chance to have the entire prairie to yourself.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a meal amidst nature; there's a picnic table at the map kiosk.
🗺️ Explore Freely
Paths are mowed but unmarked. Feel free to wander and discover.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes for walking on natural prairie terrain.
🤫 Embrace the Quiet
Visit on weekdays for a chance to have the entire prairie to yourself.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a meal amidst nature; there's a picnic table at the map kiosk.
🗺️ Explore Freely
Paths are mowed but unmarked. Feel free to wander and discover.
🐶 Dog Etiquette
Be mindful of the prairie's integrity if bringing dogs.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Nine-Mile Prairie is lauded as a beautiful, tranquil tallgrass prairie offering a peaceful escape and a glimpse into untouched natural landscapes. Visitors appreciate the profound quiet and the opportunity to explore freely. Some find the lack of signage and the dual use as a dog park confusing, questioning its preservation integrity.
"A beautiful tallgrass prairie where you can walk and enjoy some quiet time. I went on a Tuesday after work and didn't see a single person the whole two hours I was there. Paths are mowed but there are no signs. Just feel it out and walk where you want. If you want to see a neat in-tact tallgrass prairie, this is a great option."
Isaac Archuleta
"A nice short walk to the Historical Marker. There is a nice big parking lot. Roundtrip was like a quarter of a mile. Very nice views of the Capitol city."
Jerry Dunlap
"hidden treasure just west of the airport on NW48th on west on Fletcher - entrance across the road from the parking lot - preserved by the university since 1920's - see what the real prairie looked like before colonization - sooo quiet, birds & wild flowers - pack a picnic lunch, there's a picnic table at map kiosk /display"
Tour Monde
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Nine-Mile Prairie is located just west of the airport in Lincoln, Nebraska, accessible via NW 48th Street. The entrance is across the road from the parking lot.
Yes, there is a nice, big parking lot available for visitors.
While not explicitly a 'street' in the traditional sense, Nine-Mile Prairie is located near the historic Lincoln Highway route in Nebraska, a significant part of American road history.
Absolutely! Nine-Mile Prairie is a local gem just west of Lincoln, making it an easy excursion for residents and visitors alike.
Look for the entrance across the road from the main parking lot. It's a hidden treasure for those seeking natural beauty.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Nine-Mile Prairie is a natural area managed by the University of Nebraska for research and public enjoyment, and there are no admission fees.
As a natural prairie, it's generally accessible during daylight hours. It's best to visit when there's ample light for exploration.
There is no entrance fee to visit Nine-Mile Prairie. It's a free public space for enjoying nature.
Yes, the prairie is accessible year-round, though conditions will vary with the seasons. Spring and fall offer pleasant walking temperatures.
While there aren't typically scheduled guided tours, the University of Nebraska manages the site for research, and you can learn about its ecological significance.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can walk the mowed paths, enjoy the quiet, observe wildflowers and birds, and experience a remnant tallgrass prairie ecosystem. It's ideal for peaceful strolls and nature observation.
Paths are mowed, but there are no extensive signs. Visitors are encouraged to explore freely and feel their way through the landscape.
Expect to see various native birds and wildflowers. It's a habitat for diverse prairie flora and fauna.
Yes, it's a fantastic spot for nature photography, especially for capturing the vastness of the prairie landscape, wildflowers, and open skies.
While dogs are sometimes seen, visitors are advised to be mindful of the prairie's integrity and the impact of pets on the ecosystem.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the expansive prairie vistas, the subtle beauty of wildflowers, and the dramatic skies. Sunrise and sunset can offer stunning light.
Early morning or late afternoon light provides the most dramatic and flattering illumination for prairie landscapes.
The prairie itself is the main subject. Look for interesting textures in the grasses, unique wildflower blooms, and the wide-open horizon.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A tripod can help with low-light conditions.
Regulations regarding drone usage can vary. It's advisable to check with the University of Nebraska or local authorities before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage kids to observe the small details – interesting insects, different types of grasses, and wildflowers. The quiet atmosphere can be a refreshing change from busy urban parks. Consider a short, focused walk to keep younger children engaged. The historical marker offers a brief point of interest.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Nature Enthusiasts
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunity to witness a rare remnant tallgrass prairie. It's a chance to observe native flora and fauna in their natural habitat. Photographers will find ample opportunities to capture the vast landscapes and delicate details of the prairie.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ecological Significance of Nine-Mile Prairie
+1Preserving this ecosystem is paramount, as over 95% of the original prairie land in the U.S. has been lost due to agricultural development and urbanization. Visiting Nine-Mile Prairie offers a rare chance to witness what the landscape looked like before European colonization, with its unique flora and fauna thriving in a relatively undisturbed environment. The quiet solitude here is a testament to the resilience of nature when given space to flourish.
The prairie's conservation is an ongoing effort, involving careful management to maintain its ecological integrity. This includes understanding the role of natural processes like fire and grazing in shaping the prairie landscape. For visitors, it's a chance to connect with a significant piece of American natural history and appreciate the delicate balance of this unique biome.
+1Experiencing the Prairie: What to Expect
Visitors often describe the experience as profoundly peaceful, with the sounds of birds and the rustling wind being the dominant auditory elements. It's a place to slow down, breathe deeply, and appreciate the subtle details of the prairie ecosystem, from wildflowers to native grasses. Many find it a perfect spot for contemplation or a quiet picnic.
While the lack of extensive signage might be confusing for some, it also lends itself to a sense of discovery. Embrace the freedom to wander and explore the vastness. It's a reminder of the natural world's raw beauty and the importance of preserving these precious remaining wild spaces.
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