Lincoln's Best Parks for Morning Runs

One of the best-kept secrets in Lincoln? Our parks system. As a runner who’s logged thousands of miles through the city, here are my go-to spots for morning miles before the heat hits.

Holmes Lake Park

Distance: 3.2-mile loop
Surface: Paved path, some gravel sections
Best for: Long runs, wildlife viewing

Holmes Lake has the best scenery in Lincoln. The lake loops around twice, with plenty of shade in the early morning. I’ve seen eagles, herons, and once even a fox out there. Get there by 5:30 AM in summer to beat the cyclists.

Pioneers Park

Distance: 2.8-mile loop
Surface: Packed gravel
Best for: Interval training, hill repeats

This is my hill work spot. The terrain rolls constantly — no flat stretches more than a quarter mile. Great for building leg strength. The woods through the middle provide shade, but watch for ice in winter — it stays slick long after other paths clear.

Steve H. Bryant Park (formerly 27th & Superior)

Distance: 1.5-mile loop
Surface: Concrete
Best for: Speedwork, race prep

Not the prettiest run in Lincoln, but the flattest. I do my tempo runs here when I’m training for race day. The path is wide enough to pass walkers, and there’s good lighting for evening runs too.

VA Loop

Distance: 2 miles
Surface: Paved
Best for: Easy recovery runs

Connects the VA hospital to the Air Park. Flattest route in the city — basically zero elevation change. My go-to for recovery days when I need to keep the effort easy.

Morning Tips

• Start early in summer — by 7 AM it’s already 80°F
• Headlights required on the trail between dusk and dawn
• The Holmes Lake parking lot opens at 5 AM
• Best wildlife viewing: May-June during nesting season

My Usual Route

My standard Tuesday morning: Holmes Lake (6 miles) at dawn. Saturday: Pioneers Park for hills. Sunday: VA Loop for easy miles. This rotation keeps me running consistently year-round without burnout.

Where do you run in Lincoln? Drop me a note — I’m always looking for new routes.