Platte River - Mountain Bike Trail

Right above the Platte River is an amazing fast-flowing singletrack network, one of the best in Eastern Nebraska. If you are looking for a trail where nature blends perfectly with bike riding infrastructure to give riders a fantastic biking experience, then Platte River Trail is where you need to be. One thing that sets this trail apart is its topography, carefully crafted by the Platte River. 

Amazingly, the trail runs naturally across open fields at its crest, forested bluffs and finally, between gullies making it quite challenging for intermediates and advanced riders. Read on to learn more about this wonderful biking trail. 

Before you go:

Drinking water

Restrooms

Fee required

Lift service

Fat bike grooming

Family Friendly

Night riding

E-bikes allowed

Dogs Allowed

Obstacles

Shuttles

Detailed Trail Description

The Platte River Trail is considered one of the most diverse courses in Nebraska, spanning about 12.9 km with a trailhead that opens up at the Schramm Park State Recreation Area. Being a multi-use trail system, it is a great option for bikers, hikers and sometimes horseback riders. Interestingly, the trail offers riders the chance to have fun and enjoy nature at its best. 

The trail becomes challenging as it extends from its starting point, filled with wooded areas and wetlands. You ride through a flat trail surface composed of crushed limestone, steep climbs and descents before venturing into highly technical courses. Also found in this trail is the Libisano loop consisting of a climb and fast downhills, and the lollipop loop, designed in modern trail style with a large step up, a few jumps and high speeds. 

There is also the Gully Area, quite popular with advanced riders as it runs down a gully filled with rooty climbs, rocky playgrounds and sandy washouts. Finally, this trail has an elevation gain of 546 up and elevation loss of 488 down, which along with its natural scenery, makes it a top choice for bikers. 

Additional Trail Features

Apart from the trail sections available, the trail offers a breathtaking view of the Platte River and the prairies, dunes and wetlands surrounding it. Also, due to its proximity to the Platte River, which supports a thriving ecosystem, this trail is home to wildlife like river otters and bald eagles. Riders also learn more about the history and ecology of the area as it provides informative signs along the way. 

Recommendations/Precautions

Biking on this trail can be tricky due to its multi-use nature. Riders should be careful and look out for hikers and horseback riders, especially those in opposite directions. Also, due to the climbs' technical nature and the Gully Area's intricacies, you should start riding early when your legs are still fresh and pumped with energy. 

Conclusion

The Platte River Trail is an excellent mountain biking trail that offers riders fun while basking in the beauty and splendour of nature. Each section of the trail has unique features to provide an awesome biking experience.