Neale Woods Nature Center
Discover Omaha's tranquil natural escape with 7 miles of trails through forests and meadows, offering scenic views and wildlife spotting opportunities...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful trails, best wildlife
Neale Woods Nature Center
Best Time
Peaceful trails, best wildlife
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Omaha's tranquil natural escape with 7 miles of trails through forests and meadows, offering scenic views and wildlife spotting opportunities.
"A beautiful slice of nature & serenity close to the city, perfect for a quiet hike."
Wear sturdy shoes
Trails can have downed trees and uneven terrain. Good footwear is a must for a comfortable hike.
Check trail conditions
Downed trees can be common; embrace the adventure or check for recent updates.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Loess Hills Vistas
Hilltops
Enjoy panoramic views of the Omaha skyline and Missouri riverfront from elevated viewpoints.
Wildlife Encounters
Throughout the preserve
Keep an eye out for diverse birdlife and animal tracks along the forest and meadow paths.
Wooded Trail Adventures
Various trails
Meander through shaded forests and open meadows on well-marked trails, perfect for a peaceful escape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Trails
Timing is Key for Serenity
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear sturdy shoes
Trails can have downed trees and uneven terrain. Good footwear is a must for a comfortable hike.
Check trail conditions
Downed trees can be common; embrace the adventure or check for recent updates.
Pack water & snacks
Stay hydrated and fueled for your exploration, especially on longer hikes.
No pets allowed
To maintain a quiet environment, pets are not permitted. Enjoy the solitude.
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear sturdy shoes
Trails can have downed trees and uneven terrain. Good footwear is a must for a comfortable hike.
Check trail conditions
Downed trees can be common; embrace the adventure or check for recent updates.
Pack water & snacks
Stay hydrated and fueled for your exploration, especially on longer hikes.
No pets allowed
To maintain a quiet environment, pets are not permitted. Enjoy the solitude.
Grab a trail map
Maps are available at the kiosk to help you navigate the well-marked trails.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Neale Woods Nature Center is lauded as a serene, beautiful natural escape close to Omaha, offering well-maintained trails through forests and meadows with lovely hilltop views. Visitors appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and opportunities for nature observation, though some note downed trees can add an adventurous element to hikes. It's a highly recommended spot for a quiet, restorative outdoor experience.
"Beautiful slice of nature & serenity close to the city. The lovely walking trails meander through the forests & meadows of the Loess hills. Excellent views from the hilltops. Didn't see any wildlife other than birds, but lots of animal tracks along the path. Dozens of down trees across the trails right now. Made it more of an adventure hike to scramble around & over the logs and braches. Hopefully these will be addressed before too much detour erosion occurs."
Forest Tryst
"A guided tour is the best way to visit. We learned about the many native plants and flowers that can be turned into tea or tinctures for healthy and beauty."
Linda Bryant
"Lovely place for a quiet hike with views ranging from the Omaha skyline to the Missouri riverfront. I nice variety of trails that are well maintained with a wide variety of native plants to appreciate. There’s a no dog / pet policy specifically for encouraging a quiet hiking environment. Managed / maintained by Fontenelle Forest."
Amy Epperson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Neale Woods is located in North Omaha. You can reach it by car via I-680 N and then taking the US-6 W exit towards Lincoln. Follow US-6 W to N 120th St and turn right. Continue on N 120th St, which will eventually lead you to the preserve. +1
Public transportation options to Neale Woods are limited. It's best accessed by car. Consider ride-sharing services if you don't have your own vehicle.
There is a parking area available at the entrance of the nature center. From there, you can access the trailheads.
Yes, Neale Woods is an offshoot of Fontenelle Forest and is managed by them. An annual pass covers both locations. +1
Trailheads are generally well-marked, and you can pick up a trail map at the kiosk near the entrance for guidance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors, and $3 for children aged 2-17. Children under 2 are free. An annual pass for both Neale Woods and Fontenelle Forest is also available.
Seniors and children receive discounted admission rates. Consider an annual pass if you plan to visit both Neale Woods and Fontenelle Forest multiple times.
While specific hours aren't always listed, it's generally open during daylight hours. It's advisable to check the Fontenelle Forest website for the most current information.
Tickets can typically be purchased at the entrance kiosk. For the most up-to-date information on purchasing options, it's best to check the Fontenelle Forest website.
Parking is generally included with the admission fee. There is no separate charge for parking at the designated lot.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Neale Woods offers a variety of trails, including dirt paths that wind through wooded areas and open meadows. Some trails have low to moderate inclines and declines, offering a good mix of challenge and accessibility.
Absolutely! Neale Woods is praised as a great place for hiking, with well-maintained trails suitable for various fitness levels. It's considered a hidden gem for a couple of hours of exploration.
Yes, visitors often report seeing birds and animal tracks. While wildlife sightings aren't guaranteed, the diverse habitats increase your chances.
The trails are generally well-marked, and a map is available at the kiosk. Some minor signage issues have been noted, but overall navigation is straightforward.
Yes, Neale Woods is known for its peaceful atmosphere and is a great spot for a quiet hike or meditation. The no-dog policy contributes to the serene environment.
📸 📸 Photography
The hilltops offer scenic views of the Omaha skyline and riverfront, perfect for landscape shots. The wooded trails and meadows provide opportunities for nature photography, capturing wildflowers and wildlife.
Yes, with its diverse flora and fauna, Neale Woods is an excellent location for nature photography. Keep an eye out for birds, animal tracks, and seasonal wildflowers.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. This also coincides with peak wildlife activity.
The contrast between the wooded areas and open prairies, especially during sunrise or sunset, can be stunning. The Loess Hills landscape itself is unique.
Drone usage policies can vary and may be restricted in natural areas to protect wildlife and visitor experience. It's recommended to check with Fontenelle Forest management before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider purchasing an annual pass if you plan on visiting both Neale Woods and Fontenelle Forest, as this can be a cost-effective option for families who enjoy outdoor activities. Remember that pets are not allowed, so plan accordingly. The $3 child admission fee makes it an affordable outing.
🚶♀️ Solo Hikers & Peace Seekers
While generally safe, it's always prudent for solo hikers to inform someone of their plans and stick to well-trafficked trails, especially if venturing out during less busy times. The variety of trails ensures you can find a route that suits your desired length and challenge level.
🏃♀️ Runners and Fitness Enthusiasts
Be prepared for potential obstacles like downed trees, which can add an extra challenge or require quick footwork. The relatively uncrowded nature of the park during weekdays makes it ideal for uninterrupted running sessions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails of Neale Woods
While the trails are designed to be accessible, some sections feature low to moderate inclines and declines, offering a pleasant challenge for hikers of all fitness levels. Recent visitor feedback has noted the presence of downed trees on some paths, which can add an element of adventure and require some scrambling. This is a natural occurrence in a woodland environment and is often seen as part of the experience by seasoned hikers.
For those looking for a more immersive experience, guided tours are available and highly recommended. These tours offer insights into the local flora and fauna, including native plants that have traditional uses. The no-dog policy is a deliberate choice to preserve the tranquility of the preserve, ensuring a peaceful environment for all visitors.
Wildlife and Nature Observation
The preserve's varied habitats, including woodlands and prairies, support a diverse range of plant life. During spring, wildflowers bloom, adding vibrant colors to the landscape. The presence of native plants is a significant feature, with some having historical uses for teas and tinctures, as noted by those who take guided tours.
Even without direct wildlife encounters, the natural ambiance of Neale Woods provides a restorative experience. The sounds of nature, the rustling leaves, and the open skies contribute to a sense of peace and connection with the environment, making it a popular spot for those seeking an escape from urban life.
Photography Opportunities
The trails themselves provide ample opportunities for nature photography. The interplay of light and shadow within the wooded areas, the textures of tree bark, and the delicate details of wildflowers can all make for captivating images. Visitors are encouraged to look for animal tracks, which can add an intriguing element to their photographic narratives.
While specific photography restrictions are not widely publicized, it's always wise to be mindful of the natural environment and other visitors. Respecting the wildlife and maintaining a quiet presence will enhance both your photography experience and the overall enjoyment of the preserve.
Social
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