Steamboat Trace Trail | Nemaha Natural Resources District

Steamboat Trace Trail Closure

The Steamboat Trace Trail remains closed south of Peru to the Honey Creek Bridge due to significant tree damage from the wildfire in late March. Cleanup efforts are extensive and require additional resources and equipment.

The cleanup has been included in the FY27 budget, and we anticipate this section of the trail will reopen by October 1, 2026.

Updates will be provided as work progresses. Follow us @NemahaNRD on Facebook and Instagram for updates, link below.

Barricades remain posted at both ends of the closure. The sections of the trail north of Peru and south of the Honey Creek Bridge remain open.

Follow us for updates on the Steamboat Trace Trail

Size 22-miles
Location six miles south of Nebraska City to just south of Brownville, Nebraska

This scenic, 22-mile abandoned railroad corridor parallels the Missouri River from about six miles south of Nebraska City to just south of Brownville, Nebraska. Visitors will enjoy a variety of experiences including a wealth of different tree and plant species and birds and other wildlife (deer, turkeys, squirrels, rabbits, snakes, raccoons, bobcats, etc.) The trail winds through sandstone bluffs, cuts across open farm fields, and hugs the river in spots. A crushed limestone surface provides an avenue for hikers and bicyclists alike. Open most of the year, for safety reasons, however, the trail is always closed during rifle deer hunting seasons (10 days in November, two weeks in January).

Things You Should Know

All visitors are required to follow the Nemaha NRD Recreation Rules & Regulations. (Click Here to View Rules & Regulations)
Horses, ATVs, snowmobiles, and other motorized vehicles are not allowed.
No permit is required; however, voluntary donations are accepted and used to maintain and improve the trail.
Trailheads are located at Brownville, Peru, and south of Nebraska City near the OPPD power plant.

Additional Area Information

Facilities

Area Map