Zorinsky Lake Park Omaha
Omaha's expansive Zorinsky Lake Park offers scenic trails, a popular playground, fishing, and picnic spots for a perfect urban nature escape.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful trails, fewer crowds
Zorinsky Lake Park Omaha
Best Time
Peaceful trails, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Omaha's expansive Zorinsky Lake Park offers scenic trails, a popular playground, fishing, and picnic spots for a perfect urban nature escape.
"A peaceful nature escape in the city, perfect for walks, biking, and enjoying the fresh air."
🚶♀️ Explore the Full Loop
Don't miss the entire Zorinsky Lake loop trail – it's a fantastic, uninterrupted path for biking and walking! :athletic_shoe:
☀️ Pack for the Sun
Bring sunscreen, hats, and water, especially for longer walks or bike rides. The Nebraska sun can be intense! :sunwithface:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Zorinsky Lake Loop Trail
Entire park perimeter
A scenic, uninterrupted 3-mile loop perfect for biking, running, or a leisurely stroll with stunning lake views.
New Playground Adventure
Near the main entrance
A modern, expansive playground that's a hit with kids, offering hours of fun and exploration.

Sunset Serenity
Lakeside
Witness breathtaking sunsets over the calm water, a perfect moment for reflection or a romantic outing.

Picnic & Play
Designated picnic areas
Enjoy a meal amidst nature with ample picnic spots and shelters, ideal for family gatherings or a relaxed lunch.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Outdoors
Timing is Key for Tranquility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Explore the Full Loop
Don't miss the entire Zorinsky Lake loop trail – it's a fantastic, uninterrupted path for biking and walking!
:athletic_shoe:☀️ Pack for the Sun
Bring sunscreen, hats, and water, especially for longer walks or bike rides. The Nebraska sun can be intense!
:sunwithface:🎣 Fishing Fun
The lake is stocked for fishing. Remember to check local regulations and bring your gear for a relaxing day by the water.
:fishingpoleand_வத:📸 Capture the Views
From wildlife to sunsets, Zorinsky Lake offers plenty of photo opportunities. Keep your camera ready!
:camerawithflash:Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Explore the Full Loop
Don't miss the entire Zorinsky Lake loop trail – it's a fantastic, uninterrupted path for biking and walking!
:athletic_shoe:☀️ Pack for the Sun
Bring sunscreen, hats, and water, especially for longer walks or bike rides. The Nebraska sun can be intense!
:sunwithface:🎣 Fishing Fun
The lake is stocked for fishing. Remember to check local regulations and bring your gear for a relaxing day by the water.
:fishingpoleand_வத:📸 Capture the Views
From wildlife to sunsets, Zorinsky Lake offers plenty of photo opportunities. Keep your camera ready!
:camerawithflash:⚠️ Playground Safety
Be aware of a hidden trench near the playground; consider fencing for added safety.
:warning:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Zorinsky Lake Park for its beautiful scenery, well-maintained trails, and family-friendly amenities, especially the playground. It's lauded as a peaceful urban escape for recreation and nature appreciation. Some minor concerns include a hidden trench near the playground and occasional windiness.
"Beautiful area, with lots of walking paths. People were bike riding, hiking, running and just strolling through the area. There's also a large slide 🛝 next door. Lots of different trees, shrubs, flowers,etc. We saw several different birds in the area too. The lake is beautiful and peaceful. There were also some people fishing there. Just a wonderful, serene park to go to if you just need to decompress or get your steps in. Nice way to see some of God's natural beauty here."
Stephanie S
"Peaceful Nature Escape in the City!
Zorinsky Lake Park is one of the best spots in Omaha to relax and reconnect with nature. The walking and biking trails are well-maintained and offer beautiful views of the lake. Perfect for morning walks, bird watching, or just enjoying the fresh air. There’s plenty of open space, picnic spots, and even play areas for kids. A peaceful getaway without leaving the city! 🌳🚶♀️🌅"
Akshata Shah
"Great location and awesome playground
But people has to be careful
There is a trench close by playground that is hidden by grass and could lead to someone fall and get injured. There should be some kind of fencing around it (photo below)"
Ahmed El-Mogy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Zorinsky Lake Park has multiple entrances, making it accessible from various points in West Omaha. The most common access points are off 156th Street and Harrison Street. It's easily reachable by car, and parking is available throughout the park.
Public transportation options to Zorinsky Lake Park are limited. It's best accessed by personal vehicle. Check local Omaha transit schedules for any potential bus routes that might get you close to the park's perimeter.
The park features a well-maintained 3-mile loop trail that circles the lake, ideal for biking, running, and walking. You can also explore smaller offshoot paths.
Yes, Zorinsky Lake Park has several entrances, which can be helpful depending on which part of the park you want to visit first, like the playground or specific trailheads.
Absolutely! Zorinsky Lake Park is a fantastic option for a day trip from downtown Omaha, offering a refreshing natural escape just a short drive away.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Zorinsky Lake Park is a public park and does not require an entrance fee. You can enjoy all its amenities, including trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas, for free.
Zorinsky Lake Park is generally open from dawn until dusk. Specific hours can vary slightly by season, but it's typically accessible for most of the day.
Yes, a valid Nebraska fishing permit is required to fish in Zorinsky Lake. You can obtain permits through the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.
Yes, picnic shelters are available for reservation, which is recommended for larger groups or special events. Contact the Omaha Parks and Recreation department for booking information.
General park rules apply, such as leash laws for pets and regulations regarding fires. Alcohol is typically not permitted. Always check posted signs for specific rules.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy a wide range of activities including biking, hiking, running on the trails, fishing, kayaking, picnicking, and playing at the playground.
The main Zorinsky Lake loop trail is paved and generally well-maintained, making it suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. Some smaller paths may be less accessible.
Yes, restrooms are available within the park, typically located near the playground and picnic areas. They are generally kept clean.
Yes, non-motorized boats and kayaks are permitted on Zorinsky Lake. It's a popular spot for a peaceful paddle, especially during sunset.
You can often spot various birds, squirrels, and sometimes deer. It's a great spot for nature observation and amateur photography.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants located directly within Zorinsky Lake Park. It's primarily a recreational park focused on outdoor activities.
Absolutely! Zorinsky Lake Park has numerous picnic areas with tables and shelters, making it perfect for a day out with food.
Typically, there are no regular food vendors within the park. It's recommended to bring your own food and drinks for picnics or snacks.
The park is located in West Omaha, which offers a variety of dining options. You'll find numerous restaurants, cafes, and fast-food establishments a short drive from the park.
You can reserve picnic shelters for events and arrange your own catering. Some local businesses offer picnic spreads for park gatherings.
📸 📸 Photography
The lake itself offers beautiful reflections, especially at sunrise and sunset. The trails provide scenic backdrops, and the diverse birdlife is a great subject.
Yes, the park is home to various birds, squirrels, and other small animals, making it a good location for amateur wildlife photography.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with golden hour providing stunning colors over the lake.
Drone usage is subject to FAA regulations and local park rules. It's advisable to check with Omaha Parks and Recreation for specific drone policies before flying.
The entire lake loop offers picturesque views. Look for spots along the water's edge or elevated points on the trails for panoramic shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing a picnic to enjoy at one of the many shelters or open grassy areas. Fishing and gentle kayaking on the lake can also add to the family fun. Just be mindful of the reported safety concern regarding a hidden trench near the playground.
🏃♀️ Runners & Cyclists
Beyond the main loop, you can explore smaller, unpaved trails for varied terrain. The park is also a great spot for a refreshing morning jog or an evening bike ride to catch the sunset.
🧘♀️ Peace Seekers & Nature Lovers
Enjoy a quiet walk along the trails, practice mindfulness by the water, or simply sit and observe the local wildlife. The park is a wonderful place to reconnect with nature and find a moment of calm within the city.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails of Zorinsky Lake Park
Beyond the main loop, the park offers smaller, unpaved trails that wind through wooded areas, providing a more immersive nature experience. These paths are perfect for those seeking a quieter, more secluded walk or a chance to spot local wildlife. Whether you're training for a race or just looking for a peaceful stroll, the variety of trails at Zorinsky Lake Park ensures there's an option for everyone.
Pro Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and bring water, especially if you plan to tackle the full loop or explore the more rugged paths. The trails are beautiful in all seasons, from crisp autumn hikes to refreshing spring runs.
Family Fun at Zorinsky Lake Park
Beyond the playground, the park offers ample open space for running around, flying kites, or simply enjoying a family picnic. The lake itself provides opportunities for gentle boating or kayaking, adding another layer of adventure for older children. The well-maintained trails are also suitable for family walks or bike rides, making it easy to explore the park together.
Important Note: While the playground is a highlight, be aware of a reported hidden trench near the play area that could pose a safety risk. It's always wise to supervise children closely and be mindful of your surroundings.
Nature and Photography Opportunities
Keep an eye out for the various bird species that inhabit the park, including cardinals, blue jays, and kingfishers, as well as common mammals like squirrels and foxes. The trails wind through different habitats, increasing your chances of encountering wildlife. The peaceful atmosphere, often described as a 'nature escape within the city,' makes it an ideal spot for quiet observation and photography.
Photography Tip: Visit during the 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise or before sunset – for the most dramatic and beautiful lighting. The calm waters of the lake are perfect for capturing reflections.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit