We checked out Adventure Trails, the newest exhibit to open, in Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo last week and as always, the zoo doesn't disappoint. Adventure Trails is located near the North entrance (by the Red Barn, for people who go to the zoo a lot).
So, what is Adventure Trails? It sits on five acres of land and at first glance you will see a HUGE tree. It reminded me of Swiss Family Robinson when walking up to it. Once you stop staring at this incredible tree you'll notice trails, water features, climbing areas-it is an amazingly engaging park. Bring your suits! It is incredibly interactive with mud banks, streams, bridges, fallen log crossings and more. There is even a waterfall that kids can go into.
Kids can immerse themselves in the animal's worlds. In the tree, they can climb next to monkeys, they can pop their head up into a prairie dog's world and they can balance alongside goats.
The highlight of the area is the three-story tree house which has a shipwreck slide, climbing nets and climbing tunnels. I can't begin to describe how big this tree is-the pictures don't do it justice. My 1 year old and my 2.5 year old niece couldn't really play in the tree. Their feet fell through the tunnel netting and they were not big enough to go down the slide. I would recommend this area for older kids. My 5 and 7 year olds and my 8 year old nephew could have played in this tree for hours.
The climbing areas and water areas are for all ages but I loved those areas for our younger kids. There were areas for them to play in and I could see my older kids on the tree but still watch my younger ones playing. There are staff all over this park and I cannot commend the zoo enough for it. You'll find a staff member at every area re-directing kids, helping kids-they are lifeguards for the area but more interactive. I heard one employee saying to kids, "Try climbing here, put your foot there. Good job!"
My final take? I would pay admission to go to this park. The fact that it is included in my admission to the zoo is an added bonus. My kids could have stayed for a half a day-it's hard to take kids out of there! We went to Adventure Trails first thing in the morning knowing that we would need "early-in-the-day energy" to climb and jump and explore. It's a great place to cool down with the many water features and good place for families with kids of all ages because everyone will find something to do. Knowing that this area was going to be used by families, the zoo included new facilities including baby-changing areas, two nursing rooms and family restrooms. It is big but fenced with only one exit/entrance. Talk to your kids about having a meeting point, what to do if you get separated and point out the many staff members who are there to help.
Enjoy this exhibit on your next trip to the zoo! We are so lucky to live near a place like the Omaha Zoo.
