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. The site of Cabanne's Trading Post can actually be pinpointed within the park: it sits at the corner of Ponca Road and John J. Pershing Road, in the northwest corner of the park grounds.

Aerial view north across the park's riparian forest toward North River Drive

Photo: Shelby L. Bell (CC BY 2.0)

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 sweeping views of the Missouri River. Above it, a dedicated Missouri River Overlook puts you at an elevated vantage point above the river and the surrounding wooded landscape - a step up, literally, from the views at the cliff edge itself. 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.

Another unusual landmark is a concrete stairway of 188 steps, sometimes referred to locally as the "Stairs to Hell." Some of the steps have an irregular shape, which has given rise to the folk legend that you'll count a different number of steps going up than coming down. Whether or not you believe the myth, it's worth seeking out - and a decent leg workout either way.

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, with trails winding through woods and offering a decent workout with stairs and inclines scattered throughout. For those looking to extend their time outdoors, the Omaha Riverfront Trail North runs through the park's riparian forest and connects Hummel Park to the broader Omaha riverfront trail network, making it possible to link a visit here with a longer outing along the river corridor. Most trails are manageable for families and casual walkers, but proper shoes are a good idea.

For disc golf enthusiasts, the park offers a course that will test your skills with its hilly, wooded terrain. 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.

Devil's Slide and the tree-covered slope along John J. Pershing Drive seen from above

Photo: Shelby L. Bell (CC BY 2.0)

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.