Let's finish the MoPac, Lincoln to Omaha!
Connecting Lincoln and Omaha trails systems, and rural communities along the way.
Imagine a trail from Lincoln to Omaha, through beautiful Nebraska countryside, enjoyed by hikers, cyclists and runners seeking the solace of nature and adventure. This has been the vision of trail advocates since the 1990s, when the initial MoPac East Trail was built.
Today, the MoPac East Trail from Lincoln winds through the communities of Walton, Eagle, Elmwood and terminates at the village of Wabash. Nine miles north of Wabash, the MoPac trailhead near South Bend starts the trail going north to Omaha, crossing the Lied Platte River Bridge, edging along the west side of the river near Louisville, then north to Springfield and Papillion, with future connections to the Omaha network of trails.
When "the MoPac Gap" between Wabash and South Bend is completed, the MoPac will connect to the trail systems of Lincoln and Omaha and neighboring states, and finish a critical leg of the Great American Rail Trail, spanning across the continent from Washington D.C. to Washington state. This continuous trail provides outdoor recreation, healthy lifestyles, and economic vitality via trail tourism to our rural communities and the broader metro region of eastern Nebraska.
An Opportunity to finish the MoPac
In April 2022, the Nebraska Legislature allocated $8.3 million to Nebraska Game and Parks Commission to fund the work of Lower Platte South Natural Resources District for construction of the MoPac Trail gap, to connect Lincoln, Omaha, and surrounding communities.
In November 2024, after a year-long study with public meetings and community feedback, Cass County and LPSNRD took a historic step and approved a route. The preliminary cost estimate for this 10-mile trail route connection is $15.5 million. LPSNRD will provide route details and a finish cost estimate in late 2025 after the design phase is complete. Additional funds will be needed for construction (beyond the $8.3 million).
The MoPac Alliance
Since 2019, Nebraska Trails Foundation, Great Plains Trails Network and Bike Walk Nebraska organized as The MoPac Alliance to find a solution for the MoPac Trail Gap. The MoPac Alliance organizations have committed to raising additional funds to complete this critical trail connection. Together, we can complete this vital link and create a legacy for generations to enjoy.
