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Cottonmill Park
4.7 ★★★★★ 649 Google reviews · Running trail in Kearney, Nebraska · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Paved
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Cottonmill Park's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Relaxed picnic spot with a swimming lake, a disc golf course and animal barns: kids and dogs welcome.
What runners say about Cottonmill Park
“Beautiful park that is oeaceful and quiet, yet at the same time you can fish or just have a cook out.”
“If you're looking for a nice place to enjoy some time of peace and quiet, or even go on a picnic, I highly recommend this place!”
Lovely place to lose Yourself meandering the various trails, do alittle fishing, biking, swimming there's a jungle gym for kids and area's for picnicking. I've taken many beautiful photographs at Cottonmill
I've always enjoyed walking around this park park and spending time out in nature! Had a wonderful spot that I even got to propose at! If you're looking for a nice place to enjoy some time of peace and quiet, or even go on a picnic, I highly recommend this place!
It is my go-to lake for relaxed fishing. Even if you don't catch anything, you walk away with a peaceful couple of hours. Is well kept, full of activities, and is a popular place for professional photo sessions.
We biked the Kearney (Kar-nay) Hike and Bike Trail. Began at Cottonmill Park, rode through Yanney Park (didn't spot any Sandhill Cranes :( )and ended at the Archway Monument. Beautiful country!
Trail conditions & character
“Beautiful park that is oeaceful and quiet, yet at the same time you can fish or just have a cook out.”
“If you're looking for a nice place to enjoy some time of peace and quiet, or even go on a picnic, I highly recommend this place!”
“Beautiful park with disc golf, parks and is dog friendly!”
Plan your run at Cottonmill Park
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfacePaved — asphalt or concrete. Fast and predictable, runnable year-round, and fine with a stroller
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms, water — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Websitecityofkearney.org
- Phone(308) 237-7251
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 7 AM–10 PM |
| Tuesday | 7 AM–10 PM |
| Wednesday | 7 AM–10 PM |
| Thursday | 7 AM–10 PM |
| Friday | 7 AM–10 PM |
| Saturday | 7 AM–10 PM |
| Sunday | 7 AM–10 PM |
Running trails near Kearney
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Yanney Heritage Park
4.8 ★★★★★ 1,274 reviews
This large recreation area offers a lake with boat rentals, trails, a lookout tower & play areas.
Harmon Park
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Gathering spot for community events with sports facilities, a pool, fountain & inclusive playground.
Great Plains Cultural Learning Trail
4.5 ★★★★★ 79 reviews
Park with a public restroom and walking trails, plus a museum and picnic areas.