Homestead Trail
A 40-mile rail-trail across southeastern Nebraska, from Lincoln to Beatrice.
The Homestead Trail follows a former Burlington Northern railroad corridor through the rolling agricultural landscape of southeastern Nebraska. It connects the state capital with Beatrice — home of Homestead National Historical Park — passing through quiet rural communities along the way.
Trail Information
- Length: 40 miles
- Location: Lincoln (Lancaster County) to Beatrice (Gage County)
- Surface: Crushed limestone
- Uses: Biking, walking, running, inline skating
Counties & Towns Along the Trail
Lancaster County
Gage County
Points of Interest
- Homestead National Historical Park — site of the first homestead claim under the 1862 Homestead Act
- Gage County Historical Museum (Beatrice)
- Wilderness Park trailhead, Lincoln (southern trailhead connection)
- Brownville State Recreation Area (nearby)
History
Named for the Homestead Act of 1862, which opened this region to settlement, the Homestead Trail follows a former Burlington Northern railroad right-of-way. The trail was developed to connect Lincoln with Beatrice and pays tribute to the pioneer homesteaders who built southeastern Nebraska.
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