Trooper Trail

Trooper Trail is a nearly 11-mile loop trail located in the Soldier Creek Wilderness, which is adjacent to the Fort Robinson State Park. This varied landscape is a haven for many species of wildlife, including elk, deer, turkeys, coyotes, bobcats, rabbits, and birds of prey. The trail winds through pine forests and past interesting rock formations, including ridges, ravines, and canyons. You'll find one of those formations right at the trailhead, where you'll see trees growing on top of a sheer rock face just a little ahead of you.

Some areas of the ponderosa pine forest are still recovering from a major fire that occurred in 1989. As a result, there are many sections of the Trooper Trail where you'll find little to no shade. Make sure to bring sunblock and lots of water. The scenery is still quite lush, though. Trees grow more densely along certain parts of the trail and wildflowers are abundant in the open sections of shortgrass prairie in the spring and summer.

As you ascend to higher elevations, you'll see rolling hills spread out before you in every direction. Your pups will enjoy ample room to roam as you take in expansive vistas together and watch light and shadow play over the folded landscape. Your four-legged hiking crew will also be happy if they like to splash in the water. Several times, the trail crosses Soldier Creek, a pristine stream where anglers like to come fish for one of four species of trout.

The trailhead for the Trooper Trail is located right off of the Soldier Creek Camping Area, which includes primitive campsites, picnic tables, vault toilets, and access to potable water. If you like ruffin' it with your pup, it's a great spot to wind down in front of a campfire after a full day of hiking the Trooper Trail loop. The only thing warmer than the campfire will be the tired, contented smiles on your and your furry friends' faces.