Mahoney Park

Park History

Located in northeast Lincoln, Nebraska, Mahoney Park spans 77 acres near the intersection of North 70th Street and Adams Street. Back in 1969, what we now know as Mahoney was actually called Northeast Park when it first opened its gates following approval from the Department of Outdoor Recreation.

Amenities and Features

Over the years, Mahoney has developed a nice mix of natural areas and facilities. You'll discover plenty of open green spaces, peaceful wooded sections, and trails that wind throughout the property.

The playground offers equipment for kids of different ages, with safety-friendly rubber flooring covering most of the play area (though not around the swings). While little ones have some options, the playground could use more toddler-sized equipment and swings for bigger kids.

For sports enthusiasts, Mahoney offers several options. The park houses softball fields, baseball fields, and basketball courts with lights for evening games. There are also tennis courts and sand volleyball courts that light up after dark for those sunset matches. Soccer fields and open spaces round out the athletic offerings.

Need a spot for a family gathering? Several open shelters dot the landscape, complete with picnic tables and many featuring charcoal grills for your cookout needs.

Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the adult fitness station in the northeast corner near the Shanda Dixon and Murdock trails. Added in 2020, this outdoor gym honors the memory of Kelly Rae Atchison, a local fitness lover who clearly made an impact on the community.

Trail Connections

One of Mahoney's best features is how it plugs into Lincoln's broader trail network. The Murdock Trail runs along the north side of the park, giving you the option to head east all the way to 112th Street or west toward downtown and East Campus.

Within the park itself, the walking paths are a highlight, featuring occasional benches where you can rest and take in both sunny open areas and shady woods. With both paved and natural trails available, walkers, joggers, and cyclists often use the park.

Dog Park

On the east side near 70th Street, there's a dedicated dog park for your four-legged friends. It's thoughtfully divided into two areas - one for larger dogs (over 15 inches) and another for the smaller pups. The secure, fenced space lets dogs run free while owners can relax on benches or at picnic tables. There's even a drinking fountain to keep everyone hydrated.

Don't have a dog or prefer not to use the dog park? Leashed pets are welcome throughout the rest of Mahoney and on all the connected trails.

Atmosphere and Scenery

Despite being within city limits, Mahoney Park offers a refreshingly peaceful atmosphere. Abundant shade trees create cool retreats on hot summer days, and the varied terrain with gentle hills adds character to both open and wooded spaces.

The natural beauty here makes it a prime spot for photography, with different areas showing their unique charm through all four seasons. Many photographers are drawn to the shaded tree rows and bridges near the entrance, which frame some particularly Instagram-worthy shots.

With its mix of recreational facilities and natural spaces, it's easy to see why Mahoney has become a go-to destination for northeast Lincoln residents looking for a breath of fresh air without venturing far from home.