Papillion’s Walnut Creek Recreation Area is home to a mountain bike trail system not built by a developer or city, but by the people who ride it.
What started as an informal path is now one of the area’s most accessible, community-driven mountain bike trails, thanks in large part to volunteers like Jeff Schram, a longtime Papillion resident.
While originally riding along the paved path, Schram said, “We started riding off the trail. We called those rogue trails.”
That early loop sparked something bigger. In 2014, Schram contacted the City of Papillion and connected with Trails Have Our Respect (THOR), a Nebraska-based organization focused on building and maintaining sustainable trails.
Together with THOR and park officials, Schram mapped out what would become today’s trail system. Volunteers showed up, flagged routes and cut paths, working with the natural landscape.
“We wanted to preserve as many trees as possible,”
Today, the mountain bike trail spans roughly five miles and continues to evolve. Designed to be progressive, it offers approachable terrain with optional technical features, allowing riders to build confidence.
“I made it so kids could enjoy it,” Schram says. “It’s one of the best places in the Omaha area to go to.”
That accessibility has made the trail a hub for local families and youth programs, including the Nebraska Interscholastic Cycling League. High school teams train there, and group rides bring together riders of all ages.
“It’s a sport where the whole family can participate,” Schram says. “Walnut Creek is going to be busy with lots of kids. And I love seeing that.”
A short ride from the trailhead, Sarpy County Bicycles is opening its doors, strengthening the connection between the trail and the local cycling community. Owner Todd Kay brings decades of experience, including his time at Greenstreet Cycles before it closed last year.
Kay emphasizes strong fundamentals. For those new to mountain biking, he recommends a hardtail bike with no rear suspension, this helps riders build strong balance skills. For further help, he encourages taking a fundamental mountain biking course and testing out the Walnut Creek trail.
“I call it a beginning trail,” he says. “Relatively flat with a few technical features that are more or less optional.”
That mindset runs throughout Walnut Creek. From trail days to weekly rides, the focus remains on community, accessibility, and enjoyment.
One of those gatherings happens every Tuesday at 6 p.m., when riders meet for a casual group ride behind The Good Life Sports Bar & Grill, where riders connect off the trail afterward. The turnout varies, but the goal to provide community and a network of individuals with a similar interest stays the same.
That community is what continues to drive Schram's dedication to the trails. “If I don’t do it, who is?” he says. “I’m about giving back to my community.”
At Walnut Creek, that commitment continues to shape the trail, one ride at a time.