Heritage Highway
Brownville State Recreation Area and Surrounding Area, NE

Brownville State Recreation Area is located outside of the village of Brownville, along the banks of the scenic Missouri River. The area is open for hiking, camping, fishing, picnicing, and boating. You can park in the area to access the Steamboat Trace Hiking and Biking Trail, which is an old railroad line that has been converted to a pedestrian use trail. The Steamboat Trace Hiking and Biking Trail consists of 21 miles (34 km) of trails that wind through limestone bluffs, beautiful Nebraska scenery, and the banks of the Missouri River.

Departing from Brownville State Recreation area is the paddlewheeler, Spirit of Brownville. This cruise is a once in a lifetime chance to experience the old-time charm of the Missouri River while enjoying the modern advantages of a refreshment bar, restrooms, and facilities for dining and dancing. Also located in the park is the Captain Meriwether Lewis Museum of Missouri River History. A restored side-wheeler dredge used on the Missouri is now on display at Brownville.