Peter Kiewit Lodge to Observation Tower Loop Trail is a 2.1 mile moderately trafficked loop trail located near Ashland, Nebraska that features a river and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, running, and nature trips and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
As of April 2020, part of the trail is closed due to construction. A park entry permit is required and may be purchased at the park, statewide Game and Parks offices and permit vendors or in advance of your arrival online. For a complete list of park and activity fees, click the button below.
this was a fun trail, a nice few overlooks of the river and we found a neat rock quarry area. there was some larger rocks to step down in some areas that wouldn't be great with smaller kids, and the trail got a bit less maintained in areas, overall a pretty good time though
Interesting enough, a couple good views of the river but that's about it. Pretty easy going, but there are a few semi-technical parts where the trail had been washed out. Part of the trail is still closed by the observation tower as of 9/21/20, as advertised on the park website.
Wonderful trail, lots of shade. Would’ve given it five stars but part of the trail is closed due to construction at the tower.
Trail was a bit confusing and part of it was closed off because of construction (the observation tower). Believe it’ll be that way until October 2020, however just check the website! Overall though, it was a fun hike. My gf and I took the dog out for it l, and we even got to see a few deer. There’s a ton to do at this state park, I recommend visiting.
This trail is so overgrown that we quit half way and turned up towards some cabins to get off the trail early. Definitely need long pants for all the brush you’re walking through. It’s too bad they don’t maintain this trail.
Poorly marked, lots of overgrown parts of the trail. Nice views of the Platte. I picked up a grocery bag full of litter. This trail could definitely use some attention. If it rained heavily it would be too muddy to navigate certain parts. Enjoyable enough if you’re there. Wouldn’t drive out of my way to hike this trail.
Like it's cousin park, Platte River, the trails are a bit sporadic and short. Although the park itself is a bit more crowded than Platte River, the trails are not which make it a bit nicer of a walk in my opinion. Personally the popularity of the camp ground is a bit too much for me which is why I prefer Platte River State Park, just a few miles south.
Saturday March 15th, 2014 I had to get out and enjoy the weather. Went to Mahoney Park and walked on the trail below the lookout tower. Nice trail through the brush and trees above the river. Although it wasn’t flat land the hike was not difficult. I’m looking forward to new life springing up from the dead ground. In the blink of any eye the temperature dropped and the wind picked up speed bringing the cold front.