Hummel Park

A Hidden Retreat in North Omaha

Situated in North Omaha is Hummel Park, a 202-acre natural haven that feels worlds away from city life. Established in 1930, the park was named after Joseph B. Hummel, who devoted years to Omaha's Parks and Recreation Department as superintendent.

Before becoming the woodland retreat we know today, this land was home to several Native American tribes, including the Otoe, Pawnee, and Omaha. History buffs might appreciate knowing that the area once hosted Fort Lisa, a Spanish fur trading post, and Cabanne's Trading Post - both significant players in early European-American settlement of the region.

Nature's Playground

Set in the Ponca Hills, Hummel Park is characterized by dense woods, dramatic cliffs along its eastern edge, and deep, winding ravines. The riparian forest creates a lush green canopy that makes you forget you're still within city limits.

One spot you shouldn't miss is the "Devil's Slide," a natural cliff formation that offers breathtaking views of the Missouri River. Just a heads-up: the terrain here is pretty rugged, with narrow, winding roads that sometimes feature potholes, so take it slow when driving through.

What makes this park special is how it lets you escape the hustle and bustle without having to drive hours outside the city. The scenic overlooks offer quiet spots to pause and take in the natural surroundings.

Learning and Recreation

At the heart of the park is the Hummel Park Nature Center, where environmental education comes alive through various programs and seasonal events. The center also houses the Four Seasons Nature Preschool, nurturing little ones to develop a lifelong connection with the natural world.

The park has several hiking options. The trails here wind through woods and offer a decent workout with stairs and inclines scattered throughout. Don't worry if you're not an experienced hiker - most trails are manageable for families and casual walkers, but you might want to wear proper shoes.

For disc golf enthusiasts, the park offers a course that will test your skills with its hilly, wooded terrain. While it's a fun challenge, be aware that the dense tree cover can make finding errant throws a bit of an adventure - maybe bring some backup discs if you're just starting out.

Comfort and Convenience

When it's time for a break, you'll find numerous picnic areas throughout the park. You'll find tables and benches both inside and outside a charming stone building near the playground.

The stone structure features two fireplaces that add a rustic, cozy atmosphere to any gathering. If you're visiting with kids, they'll likely make a beeline for the playground with its clean, fine sand - a hit with families who frequent the park.

A Fresh Start

For years, Hummel Park carried the weight of urban legends due to its secluded location and dense woods. The good news is that in recent years, the city has worked hard to dispel these myths while improving the park's safety and accessibility.

The ongoing efforts to clean, maintain, and secure the area have transformed Hummel Park into a welcoming destination for everyone. Today, it's both a historic site and a natural escape for locals and visitors, not far from the city.