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.
November 14, 2020October 11, 2020this 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
October 10, 2020Walked the paved trail which was nice but not much shade.
September 21, 2020Interesting 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.
August 17, 2020June 13, 2020Wonderful trail, lots of shade. Would’ve given it five stars but part of the trail is closed due to construction at the tower.
April 26, 2020Trail 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.
January 13, 2020The actual trail is poorly maintained and very short. If you're already here give it a go, but don't go out of your way just for this trail. There are better ones a few miles east at Platte River State Park.
August 16, 2019This 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.
August 17, 2018Poorly 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.
January 16, 2018We have hiked these trails year round and always a pleasure to be there. If damp under foot trekking poles can be helpful on slippery steep areas
November 12, 2017It's a nice hike with some lovely trees. Saw deer, turkeys, and a flight of pelicans.
July 29, 2017Some beautiful views of the river. The trail is pretty overgrown in some spots, and the trail could be better marked. But we enjoyed the scenery.
June 1, 2016Very nice hike in the start then slowly gets more overgrown. Did not know what way to go because it was to overgrown.
September 28, 2015easy to nagivate, kid friendly, short, easy walk.
May 26, 2015Just did the loop around the park. A very easy and beautiful walk. Hope to eventually get all the smaller shorter trails walked.
May 14, 2014Like 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.
March 17, 2014Saturday 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.
January 16, 2014Nice hike! Very scenic, lots of wildlife, and the trails are well maintained. Theres also a ton of other stuff to do.
March 30, 2013Fun family hike! Tons of wildlife, great river view as well.
April 13, 2012There's deffinatly some good riding, but is very unkept. Fast drops steep climbs. All in all, it ok. Bout 2 hrs of riding. Tons of wild life!!!!
September 5, 2011
First to ReviewWe saw lots of baby deer. Great views of the river too. Our son really enjoyed this hike. We climbed the tower during our loop back to the Lodge. Very easy hike for the family.
December 5, 2020October 27, 2020October 8, 2020August 15, 2020June 22, 2020May 23, 2020May 23, 2020
