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Platte River State Park
4.7 ★★★★★ 2,271 Google reviews · Running trail in Louisville, Nebraska · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Loop distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Platte River State 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.
Protected forestland offering outdoor activities plus seasonal accommodations in cabins and tepees.
What runners say about Platte River State Park
“The safety keepers on bridles and saddles are broken and the tack could use a deep clean.”
“Aside from that, the park has a waterfall, great views of the river, and the observation tower, which makes them even better.”
“There are plenty of trails for hiking and mountain biking, although the trails aren't very well marked.”
I did an out and back hike, 4.36 miles 1 hr 43 mins. I went up the observation deck and saw a great view of the river. I took the trail that led from the deck. Seen 1 wild turkey. Pretty hilly trails. I was on 3 different trails. I am going to do the Platte River Trail loop next time I go there.
Platte River State Park is an absolute gem! The observation tower offers a breathtaking vantage point—on our visit, we were lucky enough to spot a soaring eagle over the Platte River, which was an unforgettable sight. The trails are beautifully maintained and clearly marked, making them fun and easy to explore.
This was a great place for vacation. We went as a group of 15 people with 2 kids. We rented 3 cabins, 6 people in each. Inside the cabin there was one queen bed and one bunker bed. Weather was too hot, thus one cooler wasn’t sufficient for us. Common washrooms were okay, not that much cleaner.
This lovely park was a short drive off I-80 west of Omaha. There is plenty to do for all ages. Lots of different playgrounds and wading ponds for children. There are hiking trails, biking trails, archery, fishing, and camping. Paddle boat and kayak rentals are available.
Trail conditions & character
“Aside from that, the park has a waterfall, great views of the river, and the observation tower, which makes them even better.”
“Dogs are permitted but must remain leashed the whole time which is totally understandable.”
“The location can be difficult if you’re in a wheelchair or scooter as it’s at the bottom of a huge hill accessible by a gravel road.”
“There are many trails which are easily accessible, although not very well marked.”
“The outer loop of trails is just short of 11 miles, I wish their trail map was better.”
“There are plenty of trails for hiking and mountain biking, although the trails aren't very well marked.”
Plan your run at Platte River State Park
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- 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.
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websiteoutdoornebraska.gov
- Phone(402) 234-2217
Hours
| Monday | 8 AM–5 PM |
| Tuesday | 8 AM–5 PM |
| Wednesday | 8 AM–5 PM |
| Thursday | 8 AM–5 PM |
| Friday | 8 AM–5 PM |
| Saturday | 8 AM–5 PM |
| Sunday | 8 AM–5 PM |
Running trails near Louisville
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
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