Trail conditions vary day to day & season to season. Protect the places you hike by staying on the trail – and by knowing when trails close, due to wet conditions. Check trail status at https://urbantrailco.com/status/.
Click here for a map of reviewed trails. Then find the trail of your choice below, in the alphabetical list. Click on the trail names (below) for links. New trails are added regularly!
Alex George Wetland Trails in KCMO Not one but TWO hiking experiences in and around Alex George Wetland at 10831 Blue River Road in KCMO. Park in the small lot on the west side of Blue River Rd to access both. On the west side of the road, cross the bridge to hike the Blue River Greenway Trail, a paved 5-mile trail that loops around the wetland, then heads south to Minor Park or north to Indian Creek. You will see the old springhouse (photo) from KC Mayor Bryce Smith’s Red Bridge Farm in the 1930s. On the east side of the road, enter the Blue River Parkway Trail system. Follow Bridger and Badger dirt trails past gorgeous limestone outcroppings. Dogs on leashes are welcome on both trails.
Amity Woods Nature Trail in KCMO This underrated trail at 8707 N. Amity Ave, just south of Hwy 152 and north of Weatherby Lake, is perfect for a short but still interesting hike. From the trailhead, walk a level half-mile out and back on the wide paved trail. Or take the scenic route on wood-chip and dirt trails, all connecting to the paved trail. On the south side, you can take a look at the creek running alongside. Dogs on leashes are welcome in the park.
Angel Falls Trail in Lansing, KS Park in the back of the lot at St Francis de Sales Church, 900 Ida Street in Lansing. This half-mile paved trail (a little more than 1 mile, out and back) is perfect for strollers and children, but also for anyone looking for a lovely, peaceful walk. The trail passes over a large bridge to the gentle waterfall. A small side trail (a dirt track) built by Girl Scout troop 4146 leads directly to the falls, where you can dip your feet in the water. Relaxing and quiet, not usually very busy.
Anita B. Gorman Discovery Center in KCMO. A small natural oasis near the Plaza, the Anita B. Gorman Discovery Center, 4750 Troost, is beautiful in every season. In summer, the flowers and plants are in full bloom. But in winter, the lines of the trees, and the bright sun on the water of the pond, are so pretty! Walk about a mile on the grounds of the site, but it’s also easy to connect to the paved trail along Brush Creek, the Kauffman Foundation & Garden, Theis Park, and even walk down to the Plaza. There is plenty of parking at the Discovery Center, alongside a nature center offering free programs year-round. Dogs on leashes are welcome on the site.
Antioch Park Trails in Merriam, KS Antioch Park, just off I-35 and 67th St at 6501 Antioch Road in Merriam, is the oldest park (1958) in the JoCo Parks & Rec Dept. It is as popular & beautiful as the day it opened! Antioch has about 1.5 miles of trails, some very shaded. Paths are paved & dirt, plus boardwalks around the water. Dogs on leashes are welcome. There are 2 fishing lakes, geese & ducks, and a small natural area with a dirt path and a creek. There’s also a cool footbridge across the south lake, made of stepping stones, and a great kids’ playground called Dodge Town. The park has a rose garden and a Vietnam memorial (first in the metro).
Baker University Wetlands in Lawrence, KS Eleven miles of trails and boardwalks = a great hike with views of dozens (or more) birds, turtles, frogs, rabbits, bees, and butterflies at the Baker University Wetlands, 1365 N. 1250 Rd in Lawrence! All trails are open to hikers from dawn to dusk. Check website for Discovery Center hours. Some trails in the wetlands are completely unshaded, so it’s best to go early or late in the day, especially in summer. Plenty of parking in four different lots.
Big Bull Creek Park Trails in Edgerton, KS Opened in 2018, Big Bull Creek is the largest park in the JoCo Parks & Rec District, at a bit more than 2000 acres. Access the trails, a beautiful children’s nature play area, and two shelters at 20425 Sunflower Road, just west of I-35. Park in the lot and follow the paved trail to the hiking trailhead. Hike about 2 miles along the loop and visit the peaceful St. Columbine cemetery, a hidden pond, lovely prairie overlooks, and access to the longer trails. The path is rocky in spots, and there are some fun obstacles to climb over or hike around. Dogs on leashes are welcome. Pack a picnic and enjoy a day out at Big Bull Creek!
Black Hoof Park Trails in Lenexa, KS Hike for miles on every surface at Black Hoof Park, just east of K-7 at 9053 Monticello Rd. There’s an impressive dam and spillway to cross, and a big lake for fishing, boating, and SUPing. The trails join a 5K cross-country track and RideKC bike hubs. Park by the boat ramp for the lake, kids’ playground, and the main paved trail. Find a boardwalk if you walk west, and more playgrounds, the 5k grass track, and a second parking lot if you walk east. The paved trail joins gravel and dirt trails near the dam. Leashed dogs are welcome in the park. One note: There is a shooting range nearby, but it is closed on Mondays & Tuesdays, and trails are quieter then.
Black Jack Park’s Ivan Boyd Prairie Preserve Trail in Baldwin City, KS Take a short hike on 18 acres of the Ivan Boyd Prairie Preserve! See a recreated period log cabin and actual ruts left by wagons traveling the Santa Fe trail at Black Jack Park, 2011 N 200th Road, just east of Baldwin City (Wellsville, KS address). The Black Jack battlefield park is just a couple minutes south of the park and prairie preserve, at 163 E 2000 Rd in Wellsville, KS.
Blue & Gray Park Trails in Jackson County, MO If you are looking for a hiking adventure, the 1700+ acres of Blue & Gray Park, north of Lone Jack along the Buckner-Tarsney Road, may be exactly what you are looking for. The huge natural park is crisscrossed by horse trails, best hiked in the winter, when the ground is frozen, or in early spring and late fall, when the ticks are not out yet. Day parking and shelter house on Hammond Road. This part of the county is incredibly beautiful, with steep ridges, water crossings, thick woods, fields, and gorgeous views. The trails are worth the muddy boots! (You definitely need boots – do not hike at this park in sneakers.) Trails are marked with colorful plastic flags; there are many side trails to explore, too.
Blue Branch Creek Trail in Grain Valley, MO This level, paved trail is another great place to walk on the east side of the metro! It’s just right for strollers and little kids, with cute gnomes hidden in the trees. The trail follows Blue Branch Creek more than a mile between Buckner-Tarsney Road and Rt AA (SW Eagles Parkway). There is no specific parking lot. Street parking (see link). There is a cross-trail near this trail’s midpoint, with a big bridge over the creek. The cross-trail links neighborhoods to the south, with Grain Valley HS to the north. Dogs on leashes are welcome on the trail.
Blue River Greenway Trail in KCMO This wide, paved trail runs more than 5 miles north from the tennis courts at Minor Park to just south of Bannister Rd, where the trail meets Indian Creek Trail. Easy parking at the tennis courts at 11477 Blue River Rd. Along the way, check out the Old Red Bridge across the Blue River, where you can “lock your love.” Even in cold weather, it is still a nice walk of a little more than a mile from the tennis courts up to the Old Bridge, under the new bridge, and back. If you walk further north, you can check out the Alex George Lake and wetlands area. This trail is very popular. Bikes, strollers, and dogs on leashes all use it regularly.
Blue River Parkway Trails (Analog, Hi-Fi & Jigsaw) in KCMO Looking for a challenging, beautiful hike inside the city limits? Check out the northernmost section of the Blue River Parkway trails, near the intersection of I-435 and 71 Highway in south KC. You can park at the ballfields at 9600 Blue River Rd and enter the trailhead there. Hike in on Analog and join Hi-Fi for an easier hike. Take Analog for more challenge. You need good hiking shoes or boots for both! Hi-Fi leads straight to the beautiful Jigsaw section of trail. The rocks and boulders really make a “jigsaw” pattern on the trail. Rocky and challenging, this section is about 2 miles total, from the trailhead at Bannister & Blue River Rd, out to Jigsaw and back. Dogs on leashes are welcome on the trail.
Blue River Parkway Trails (BoHoCa & Basement) in KCMO Here’s another section of the 27 miles of amazing woods, climbs, views, bluffs, and KC history in the Blue River Parkway! At Blue River Rd & Martha Truman Rd, enter the TH and hike a loop of BoHoCa to Basement and back, 2-3 miles There is one parking spot at Blue River Rd, just south of the intersection. Or park at the bottom of the loop, at that TH. BoHoCa is easier than Basement, which can be nerve-wracking, narrow and steep along a ledge. The foundation, stairs, and walls along Basement are a cool part of KC history! They are what’s left of an old scout camp. See this near the trail entrance off Blue River Rd, directly across from the soccer fields. Dogs on leashes are welcome on the trail.
Blue River West-Side Trails in KCMO Do you know about the Blue River trailhead & parking lot at the end of 118th Street, just east of St. Thomas More School in south KC? A Martin City newspaper article from 2018 (linked above) shares photos & some info about these trails. If you visit, you may find the trail clear or overgrown, but if you are up for an adventure, check out these west-side trails along the Blue River!
Briarcliff Greenway Trail in KCMO Every season is a great time to walk this gorgeous, paved, mile-and-a-half trail, which runs from Briarcliff Elementary at 4100 N. Briarcliff Rd south to its end point, a little west of Main Street, on NW 37th St. You can park near the trail’s midpoint, on NW 40th, to see the beautiful boardwalks. In winter, enjoy clear views of spectacular, huge sycamores, whose white branches are hidden from sight the rest of the year! Many other huge, old trees grow along the trail, and several creeks and streams intersect. Dogs on leashes are welcome on the trail.
Bridger Urban Conservation Area in Blue Springs, MO A beautiful, remote hike with wildflowers, elevation, and even a hidden creek / waterfall in wet weather, Bridger is adjacent to the Kemper Outdoor Education Center in Fleming Park. Take I-70 east of the city, exit south on Hwy 7, and turn west on SW Wyatt Rd. Follow SW Wyatt to its end & a small parking lot. A lovely mile-long mowed path heads west, dipping down to an unnamed creek. Immediately before the creek, there is a hidden dirt trail off to the north. That dirt trail follows the creek north about a half-mile, to a dry limestone ledge. Scenic and peaceful! You can also continue on the mowed path up the hill, to another parking spot at the west end of the trail on Jasper Bell Road. Note the conservation area is open to bow hunting for deer in the fall.
Brush Creek Trail in KCMO Stretching 4 miles from MLK, Jr Park at Woodland & Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr Blvd all the way to the Country Club Plaza, the paved Brush Creek Trail will surprise you! More beautiful than you imagine, the trail is breathtaking in the fall. Walk lovely bridges across Brush Creek, see old (old) stone walls, and leave the trail to explore the beauty of the Anita B. Gorman Conservation Discovery Center, the Kauffman Legacy Park, the Kauffman Memorial Garden, Theis Park, and more, before you reach the Plaza itself. Dogs on leashes are welcome on the trail, and there are multiple entry and exit points, with parking, along the way.
Burr Oak Woods’ Bethany Falls Trail in Blue Springs, MO Enter Burr Oak Woods at 1401 NW Park Rd in Blue Springs, and follow the park road all the way to the end. Bethany Falls is the trail that has everything, a moderately difficult hike about a mile through field and forest. Look out over the creek below, imagine Missouri as it looked hundreds of years ago, and enjoy the spectacular limestone outcroppings. While Bethany Falls is a popular trail (one everyone in the KC area should hike), it’s generally not very busy. The nature center is outstanding! No dogs allowed at Burr Oak Woods.
Camp Branch Glade Loops in Stilwell, KS Camp Branch Glade is almost hidden in a little-traveled corner at Nall & 175th St. Opened in 2014, it is worth your time to find Camp Branch Glade and enjoy it! You are almost guaranteed solitude. On the eastern loop, wide grassy paths give way to the narrowest dirt trail (sometimes this part of the trail is overgrown). If the way is clear, head through gorgeous rocky outcroppings down to the creek. A wet crossing makes the trail fun. The western loop is generally clear; combining the loops is almost 2 miles of hiking. There are several nice picnic tables. Great spot for a quiet picnic lunch!
Cave Spring Park in Raytown, MO It’s impossible to describe Cave Spring Park in a sentence or two! The park has its own association, formed by neighbors almost fifty years ago. Cave Spring is significant as a stop along the Santa Fe Trail, & President Harry Truman’s grandfather owned the place in the 1870s. The future President picnicked and visited here as a boy. In the 1900s, Cave Spring was a private country club, a golf course, and a campground. You can follow any of the circling paths, dirt and paved, to see where all these things happened (about 3-4 miles if you combine trails). So much to see!
Cedar Lake Falls Trail in Olathe, KS Find a beautiful waterfall at Cedar Lake Park, 15500 S. Lone Elm Rd! Find this park just off I-35, at the S. Lone Elm Rd exit. Follow the park road along the north side of the lake, all the way to its furthest point. Park and see a gate and an unmarked path heading southwest, across the top of the dam. Walk along the path until you see a side path on your right, just before reaching the spillway. Take that path, also unmarked. This whole area is usually muddy; you are in the spillway area now. The path splits, and you can go straight and see the falls from above, or turn right and take a rocky, up & down path to view the falls from the front. (Unfortunately, you will see some litter and graffiti in this area.) These paths cannot accommodate strollers and would be challenging for little kids. But both the side and front views of the falls off Cedar Creek are beautiful, if you are willing to make the trip! It’s about a half-mile out to the falls, and a half-mile back.
Cedar Niles Park Trails in Olathe, KS Officially opened in 2022, Cedar Niles is a sprawling, lovely park of more than 1000 acres for you to explore. Walk the 4-mile scenic, quiet paved trail following Cedar Creek, between the park’s Clare Rd and 135th St entrances. In good weather, check out the park’s 4.5 mile Columbine dirt loop for hiking and biking (trailhead at the Clare Rd entrance). The 119th St entrance is beautiful and panoramic as well, and you can join the paved trail there. Plus there is a fun small playground at the 135th St entrance. This is a great park for longer walks in Johnson County!
Clear Creek Trail in Shawnee, KS This paved trail along Clear Creek winds through open fields, neighborhoods, and parks. Walk under railroad tracks and over picturesque bridges. Clear Creek Trail (about 3 miles total) intersects with the much longer Gary L. Haller National Recreation Trail near Barker & 63rd, giving opportunities for longer walks. Hike Clear Creek Trail between Barker and Woodland for a relaxing walk with scenic views. It is a little more than 2 miles out and back, with street parking.
Cleveland Lake Trail in Belton, MO This newer, popular paved trail is located at 502 S. Cleveland in Belton (just south of the high school). The trail runs a little more than a mile around beautiful Cleveland Lake. Even at the height of winter, it is a lovely walk, with many out enjoying the scenery and wildlife – and when it’s warm enough, there’s disc golf and great fishing on the lake! Numerous docks and bridges make the trail even more attractive. There is a small parking lot, and dogs on leashes are welcome on the trail.
Coffee Creek Trail in Johnson County, KS. This 3.4-mile, paved trail runs east/west between Pflumm and Switzer, in southern JoCo. Coffee Creek joins with Wolf Creek, just a few miles to the east, to form the metro’s great Blue River. To hike the Coffee Creek trail, park at the access road for Shelters 9 & 10 at Heritage Park (16050 Pflumm Road in Olathe) for great creek views, or in the parking lot at Arthur & Betty Verhaeghe Park (11401 W. 167th St in OP). Lovely Heritage Park has its own lake, trails, playgrounds, and athletic fields. Arthur & Betty Verheghe Park is a fun and picturesque park with a farm-themed playground, thanks to the family who once farmed here. Dogs on leashes are welcome on the trail.
Ernie Miller Park & Nature Center in Olathe, KS. Owls, snakes, turtles & more; great regular programming; and 2+ miles of paved/dirt trails through the woods and across Little Cedar Creek make Ernie Miller Park a special place! Located at 909 K-7 Hwy, Ernie Miller is easy to find, has lots of parking, and offers a beautiful nature center. The trails are lovely in all seasons. Though it’s busy in the summer, the park is a great place to walk, and see and hear a million birds. No dogs allowed at Ernie Miller, to protect wildlife. The park’s programming is wonderful, and well-known for filling up FAST. There are regular walk-in nature programs, too.
Fleming Park at Lake Jacomo’s Augie Trails in Jackson County, MO Hike a challenging, isolated trail and visit the bison and elk for free 7 days a week, from 8am – 6pm, inside Fleming Park, just south of Missouri Town 1855 at 8010 E. Park Rd. (Note you can no longer feed the bison.) The Augie trails are just a few minutes north of the Animal Enclosure. Take the park road north until you reach Liggett Cove Road. Turn north onto Liggett Cove Road and follow till your see a gravel parking lot on the east side. Park there and hike in from the trailhead to the M marker. Turn up the M path and explore incredible rocky bluffs, streams, and almost-guaranteed solitude. Check https://urbantrailco.com/ to make sure the Jacomo trails are open before you go! Hike the whole Augie 1 loop at a little more than 3 miles, or just go out and back.
Fleming Park at Lake Jacomo’s Upper & Lower Rocky Ledge Trails in Jackson County, MO Enjoy rocky bluffs, steep climbs up and down, and beautiful lake views on the west side of Lake Jacomo in Fleming Park. Exit east off I-470 at either Woods Chapel Rd or NE Colbern Rd to enter the park on the north or south side of the lake. The Rock Ledge trails begin at a marked trailhead at Shelter 14 on the west side of the lake. These trails are stunning, moderately-challenging hikes with scenic views of the lake. Wear good hiking shoes! Dogs on leashes are welcome in the park.
Garney Park Trail in KCMO Check out this beautiful newer park/trail at the intersection of Maplewoods Pkwy & N.E. 111th St in the Northland, just west of Staley HS! There is a 2-mile paved walking trail, and a very fun kids’ playground, with a parking lot. The trail is never far from the surrounding houses, yet you feel like you are far from everything. There are benches along the way. Most of this park is unshaded; there are beautiful wildflowers in the fall, and an ambitious plan for this park’s future (see link). Dogs on leashes are welcome on the trail.
Garrett Park Trail in Shawnee, KS Located at 22325 W. 47th St in Shawnee, this historic park is named for an English immigrant family of Garretts, who arrived in the U.S. in 1849. The Garretts were stone masons, building the pioneer cabin still standing in the park. They served in the Kansas State Militia, fighting in the Battle of the Big Blue to stop the Confederates. Samuel Garrett married a native woman and officially became part of the Shawnee tribe. John Garrett built the cabin still standing today. Uriah Garrett, the youngest, arrived last in the U.S. in 1858. He was wounded in battle when he was only 19, fighting for Kansas in the Civil War. Walk the park’s peaceful half-mile paved trail, enjoy the playground, and learn more about this part of the metro! Dogs on leashes are welcome in the park.
George Owens Nature Park Trails in Independence, MO Don’t miss this gem of a small park just north of the I-70 / I-470 interchange at 1601 S. Speck Road. The park has 3-4 miles of paved & dirt trails. The short Wapiti Trail slopes downhill from behind the admin building to the ponds. There are great, interesting limestone outcroppings, a good little nature center (with snakes, but also nice volunteer staff), and a peaceful group campsite. Lots of fishing in the ponds, bridges, wildlife, and great free programs for everyone. Dogs on leashes are welcome in the park.
Green Hills of Platte Wildlife Preserve in Parkville, MO Lots of wildlife and so many fun features at this hidden-away park off MO-9 between Parkville and Riverside. Explore dirt and gravel paths of more than a mile, uphill and down, on almost 50 acres of woods and water. The stepping stones across the stream are really nice! There is an outdoor classroom, and a small parking lot at 4730 N. Green Hills Rd. The historic log cabin across the street from the parking lot is one of the oldest structures still standing in Platte County, from the earliest days of settlement after the opening of the Platte Purchase territory in 1836. Dogs on leashes are welcome in the park.
Harrisonville City Park Trails in Harrisonville, MO Park by the tennis courts for the trailhead at this picturesque city park at 706 Ash Street. Multiple paths connect to make about 4 miles of the Omega Trail, including scenic bridges across the lake, gravel paths through the trees, and single dirt tracks deeper into forested areas. The gravel paths go up and around the park, offering an easy, pleasant walk in the woods with interesting views. The dirt tracks include some steep climbs. Great photo ops and a great first hike for kids.
Hart Grove Creek Campground Trail, KCMO Walk a paved mile or so along a historic campground along the Santa Fe, California, and Oregon Trails, right inside the KCMO city limits. Visit Hart Grove Creek at the pull-out at 9821 Hickman Mills Dr in south KC, in the scenic space between 71 Highway and I-435. There are informational signs just north of the pull-out, and a pretty waterfall directly behind the large stone monument. Many travelers camped here, a day out of Independence, including the infamous Donner Party in 1846. Local history hidden between our modern highways!
Hartman Park & Winterset Natural Area Trails in Lee’s Summit, MO These two hidden gems, including an incredible waterfall along Cedar Creek, are truly “hidden” along SW Pryor Road, straight south from I-470. Look for the small lane on the eastern side of SW Pryor, at 700 SW Old Pryor Road. Turn in and follow the curving lane under the bridge to the parking lot. The two adjacent parks have paved and dirt/wood-chip trails. You can walk a little more than a mile total in the parks, or join the longer Rock Island trail. Follow the trail in the Winterset Natural Area to the left, to find the waterfall (you will hear it!). Dogs on leashes are welcome in the parks.
Hidden Valley Park Natural Area Trails in KCMO Better than Worlds of Fun (which you can see from the park), plus it’s free! These are great trails that feel more like Jurassic Park than Kansas City. From the parking lot at 4029 Bellaire Ave, walk south across the road to the natural area. The narrow path across an open field leads to a wider shady trail in the forest. Walk under huge trees, with steep drops down to a ravine, and beautiful ferns, mosses, and views. It’s a little more than 3 miles to walk the main loop. This is an incredibly beautiful natural area, with lots of interesting plants, flowers, trees, and wildlife.
Hillsdale State Park’s Hidden Springs Trail in Paola, KS Find the trailhead for this rocky, 2-mile hike at 26000 W. 255th Street in Paola (next to the Army Corps of Engineers building at Hillsdale State Park). There is a nice covered shelter, a great small playground, and a frisbee golf course too. Dogs on leash are welcome. This trail is usually busier on weekends, and quieter during the week. There are multiple connecting trails, small bridges, benches, a tiny amphitheater, and lots of tree roots and rocks poking through the graveled path. Wear good hiking shoes! The trail is a loop down toward the lake and back up, with many side trails to explore.
Hodge Park Trails in KCMO This huge, scenic park in the Northland (the second largest KCMO park after Swope) has an amazing playground next to the athletic fields on the north end, the Shoal Creek Living History Museum on the south end, and of course the bison (next to the history museum). Paved & dirt trails connect. Take I-435 to the NE 96th St exit. Head east on NE 96th and take the first right into the Hodge Park athletic fields lot. Drive all the way back & park at the southernmost end of the lot. You will see the paved trail heading over a bridge. Cross the bridge & take a dirt track off to the right for miles and miles of trails (maps) near the east fork of Shoal Creek.
Hollis Center Trails in KCK Don’t miss 5 miles of amazing “hidden” hiking with a very fun suspension bridge at 11414 Kansas Ave in KCK. Trails are open 7 days a week, from dawn to dusk. Drive carefully on Kansas Ave, a bumpy (but paved) one-lane road. You will see the Hollis sign at the end of the road. Check in at the Welcome Center, and park at the picnic shelter on your left, further on. Access the Redbud trailhead on the southeastern side of the small bridge, just south of the picnic shelter. Hike it to join Cedar Trail, making a 1.5-mile loop back to the shelter. Redbud Trail is steep in spots, but has benches along the way.
Indian Creek Trail in Overland Park, KS OP’s lovely ten-mile section of the longer Indian Creek Trail begins at Foxhill South Park and runs to Forest Creek Park. The 3 miles, out and back, from Corporate Woods at 9300 Indian Creek Parkway, to Indian Valley Park has many great features. The loop behind Founders Park has some road noise, but it’s worth the walk, with views, trees, and even a pretty sizeable waterfall. There is a narrow bridge along the trail, as you head south, and shelters, benches, and kids’ playgrounds. There’s also wildlife, including falcons, blue herons, rabbits and more. Dogs on leashes are welcome on this wide paved trail.
Ironwoods Park Trails in Leawood, KS Hike more than 2 miles of the 100+ acres of lovely Ironwoods Park at 14701 Mission Road. Along with trails, there is a wonderful nature center with lots of critters, historic schoolhouse, challenge course for climbing, and cabins to rent. Exit south off I-435 at State Line Road, head west on 135th St and then south on Mission to the park. The trails are mostly paved and follow a loop through the woods, across the bridge, and around pond. A very short dirt trail, “Racoon Hollow,” has entrances off the paved loop. Park in the large lot near the big red Ironwoods Lodge to join the paved loop. Dogs on leashes are welcome in the park.
James A. Reed’s Shawnee Trace Trail in Lee’s Summit, MO Fish, hike, and explore more than 3000 acres at James A. Reed Memorial Wildlife Area, just north of Greenwood, MO and south of 50 Highway at 12405 SE Ranson Rd. There are 12 lakes to fish and 2 miles to hike on the gravel/dirt Shawnee Trace trail. Park in the lot at Bodarc Lake to access the trailhead. Snap a photo of the trail map there, with your phone, since the trail is not signed. Early in the trail there is a great spot to access the east branch of Big Creek. If we’ve had rain, you can wade through the small waterfall. Dogs on leashes are welcome on the trail. This is an easy, level hike that is good for families and smaller children.
Jerry Smith Park Loop in KCMO Look out over the last remnant of original prairie inside the KCMO city limits! Lovely in every season, Jerry Smith is full of beautiful blooms and sweet-smelling grasses every summer. Find this south KC park by taking I-435 to the Holmes exit and heading south on Holmes. Turn east on 139th St. The park entrance is about 3/4 mile on the left (there is a sign). Follow the road to the small lot with picnic tables to hike the 1.5 mile loop trail, adjoining Saeger Woods Conservation Area. Near the end of the loop, there’s a pretty overlook, just off the main trail. Dogs on leashes are welcome.
Kauffman Memorial Garden in KCMO Tucked into a quiet, small space in the city, this gorgeous garden is free and open to all every day from 8am to dusk, at 4800 Rockhill Road. There is plenty of parking in the large lot. No pets allowed, although service dogs are welcome. The garden features paved paths of about a quarter mile, through many different spaces. You will enjoy a relaxing fountains section, an incredible, show-stopping flower garden around a long reflecting pool, and many lovely architectural features. Don’t miss this hidden treasure between UMKC and the Plaza, and just south of the Nelson!
Kaw Point’s Lewis & Clark Loop in KCK Incredible skyline views are just one part of Kaw Point. See where the Kansas (or Kaw) River flows into the Missouri by turning into the large industrial complex at 1403 Fairfax Trafficway. (You are there when you see the huge Lewis & Clark silhouette on one of the warehouses.) Drive on to the separate parking lot & pavilion at Kaw Point. The entire Lewis & Clark expedition camped at this Point for three days in 1804. You can hike a little more than a mile-long along a paved trail down to the Missouri River (more of a workout than you might think)! This is a beautiful spot, and a fun photo opportunity.
Kill Creek Park Trails in Olathe, KS More than 12 miles of paved, dirt & equestrian trails at this almost-1000-acre park at 11670 Homestead Lane in western Olathe! Kill Creek has so many amenities: a lovely observation tower, a swimming beach, a marina that rents canoes + more in the summer, plenty of good fishing spots in the stocked lake, a really nice playground, and multiple shelters. Such a great park! Both the paved and dirt trails are scenic and challenging; the dirt trails are rocky and rooted. Dogs on leashes are welcome in the park.
Lawrence, KS Walking Trails Check out a wonderful 2023 list of trails in and around Lawrence, Kansas. Thank you Clark Coan for compiling it, and for sending it on. You can find the list online at: https://lplks.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/56/2020/10/Walking-Trails-Near-LawrenceIII.pdf
Lexington Lake Park’s Indigo Trail in De Soto, KS Treat yourself to 9 miles of dirt trails and 1.5 miles of paved walking at one of the area’s newer parks at 9000 Sunflower Road (just off K-10). The park has a nice fishing lake and a great kids’ playground too. See tallgrass prairie, oak & hickory forest, wildflowers in summer, and an unbelievable, long, hand-stacked stone wall. Along the Indigo Loop, there are also foundation remnants of an old settlement before De Soto was a town, and a rise to a beautiful limestone outcropping in the NW corner. Dogs on leashes are welcome in the park.
Line Creek Trail in Riverside & KCMO This busy, beautiful paved trail wanders more than 8 miles along Line Creek in the Northland. There is easy parking midway on the trail at Frank Vaydik Park, 5940 NW Waukomis Drive. Check out several beautiful waterfalls you can wade in, some steep climbs, and lovely scenic views and wildlife. There is fascinating Native American history here, and current efforts to preserve forested areas near the creek. Today there is also a miniature railroad and ice rink near the trail. Dogs on leashes are welcome in the park and on the trail.
Little Blue Trace Trail in Independence, Lee’s Summit & KCMO This wide, rolling trail follows the Little Blue for more than 15 miles through the middle of Jackson County! Part gravel and part paved, the trail feels far away from the city at both ends. The northern trailhead is at 22000 Old Blue Mills Road in Independence. There is a nice picnic shelter, a dirt path out to look over the Little Blue, and a long gravel trail that is quiet, beautiful, and not usually busy. At the southern trailhead, 5700 Phelps Road in KCMO, the trail is paved and scenic. There are multiple photo-ops with lovely bridges. The middle section is more urban, including a walk under I-70.
Little Blue Trace Trail at Hartman Heritage in Independence, MO At about the 11-mile marker at 20140 E. Jackson Drive in Independence, the Hartman Heritage trailhead of the Little Blue is stunning in the fall, and peaceful and pretty during the rest of the year. There are numerous bridges along this section of the 15+ mile trail. Bikers, hikers, kids on scooters and skates, and dogs on leashes are all welcome along the Little Blue Trace.
Loose Park Loops in KCMO A beautiful city park in our beautiful city, Loose Park (5200 Wornall) has two paved trails. Each is about a mile, around the park’s perimeter and through the park. Loose features an incredible rose garden; a pond full of ducks, swans, and koi; monuments to the Battle of Westport, fought in 1864; a great playground; lots of places to picnic; tennis courts; and even a free kids’ sprayground in the summer. Dogs on leashes are welcome to enjoy Loose Park, too!
Maple Woods Natural Area Trail in Gladstone, MO Take a perfect hike in the Maple Woods Natural Area at 2609 NE 76th St in Gladstone. The trail is short but rugged and rocky, with some elevation, and plenty of fallen trees and logs to climb over. When you are in the heart of the area, you see what this part of the metro looked like before streets were laid and houses built. The tall burr oaks are huge and impressive, and the maples are unbelievable when their leaves change colors in the fall. A few benches are scattered along the couple miles of trail. Don’t miss this gem in the middle of the city!
Mill Creek Streamway’s Gary L. Haller NRT in Shawnee, KS Beginning just south of the Kansas River at I-435, the paved Gary L. Haller trail is gorgeous and well-maintained in every season. You can find the northernmost parking lot at 19425 Wilder Drive in Shawnee. Exit west off I-435 onto Holliday Drive. Even on the coldest day, there are people running, bicycling, and walking their dogs. This longer (13 miles+) trail is popular! Walk a half-mile north to Nelson Island. It’s not exactly an island, but there’s a fun curved bridge, a short paved loop beside huge trees, and great river views. Head south along Mill Creek to intersect with several other JoCo paved trails, for miles of walking and riding.
Mill Creek Streamway Loop at Shawnee Mission Park in Shawnee, KS Shawnee Mission Park, at 7900 Renner Rd in Shawnee, is the largest in JoCo, and the most visited park in the state of Kansas. You will not find many “big” views in the county to beat those along the paved 2-mile Mill Creek streamway loop! Dip your feet in the creek, explore old stone walls, and hear the train whistle blow off to the west as you get your heart pumping. The loop is part of the longer Gary L. Haller National Recreation Trail, and joins at north and south points. Dogs on leashes are welcome. Access the loop off Barkley Drive. Park on the west side of the road in the trailhead parking lot, near the dam.
Mine Creek Battlefield Trails in Pleasanton, KS Day trip! Enjoy nearly 4 miles of trails and lots of history at the Kansas Historical Society’s well-preserved battlefield just off 69 Highway, near Pleasanton (1 hour from downtown KCMO, about 70 miles). Take 69 Highway south to the K-52 exit. Head west on K-52 about a half mile, to the site. Mine Creek was the biggest Civil War battle in the state of Kansas, and one of the biggest cavalry battles in the entire war. About 2500 Union soldiers defeated 7000 Confederates on October 24, 1864. There is a nice, small museum, open 10am-5pm Wed-Sat; the grounds are open dawn to dusk, every day. 3 different grass & dirt trails wind their way around the battlefield. Most are unshaded. Placards along the way tell incredible stories of heroism and bravery. Worth the trip!
North Troost Trail in KCMO This lovely paved trail in the Northland winds south through Englewood Park, at the corner of NE Englewood Rd & N Troost, to the corner of NE Vivion Rd & N Troost. Join the trail and park at either end: at Hillside Christian Church, 900 NE Vivion Rd, or at Englewood Park. Enjoy beautiful wooded views of the old Vivion farm (now Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary). See one particularly huge chinkapin oak near the south trailhead. And have fun at the Englewood playground! This trail runs a little more than a mile, crosses bridges, and all are welcome: dogs on leashes, bikes, walkers and strollers.
Olathe Prairie Center Loop in Olathe, KS Enjoy 300 acres of tallgrass prairie along 135th Street in Olathe! You can hike more than 3 miles on dirt, gravel, and grass trails; make a water crossing; and fish, picnic, and enjoy almost complete solitude at Prairie Center, 26235 W. 135th St (just west of I-35 at the 135th St exit). This preserve is rarely busy. There is a small parking lot just south of the corner of 135th & Cedar Niles Rd. The preserve is open dawn to dusk, free to all for hiking and fishing. There are no public buildings, but there are pit toilets. No pets or bikes are allowed at Prairie Center.
Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens in Overland Park, KS “Free admission” days all year long allow you to hike nearly 6 miles of paved and mulched trails at this wonderful arboretum at 8909 W. 179th St in Overland Park! There are surprises around every corner. Rocky Ridge is a gorgeous trail with tiny fairy houses hiding in tall trees, huge bluffs, and Wolf Creek meandering below. You can literally spend all day exploring, and even make your own trail in the prairie to the southwest. Pack a lunch – there are lots of picnic spots. Restrooms are in the visitor center. Dogs are welcome on the mulched trails. The Arboretum is open from 9am – 5pm daily. Check Arboretum website for “free admission” dates.
Parkville Nature Sanctuary Trails in Parkville, MO Beautiful trails, boardwalks, water & wildlife fill this sanctuary at 198 East 12th St (just off Hwy 9). There is a tiny parking lot, and the sanctuary can be very busy on weekends. Several trails connect; White Tail Trail is the longest, at about 2.5 miles. Along Old Kate Trail, there is a great shelter (with a plaque identifying it as a Girl Scout project), and a huge old chinkapin oak. The trails adjoin the White Alloe Creek conservation area. You can hike a trail above the steep rocky ridge & really get your heart going. No dogs or bikes allowed on the trails.
Pleasant Hill Lake’s MOPAC Trails in Pleasant Hill, MO Looking for a quiet, beautiful hike in an out-of-the-way spot? Check out miles of lovely trails at 25720 E. 161st St in Pleasant Hill. You may have the entire lake to yourself! Turn in at the northeastern-most entrance to the lake, at the bend in the road where 164th St meets 161st St. Once you’ve turned in, take an immediate right, which spins you around 180 degrees on the gravel road. Follow the road around, through the red gate, and up to the trailhead. The trails are rocky but not difficult. You can walk all the way around the lake, though you’ll walk a gravel road for about a mile. Dogs on leashes are welcome!
Prairie Creek Greenway Trail in Platte City, MO Just west of KCI but a world away, this is a beautiful paved trail following Prairie Creek for nearly seven miles. The first half-mile or so (from the SW trailhead on route N) will get your heart pumping! The western part of the trail is very scenic, with lots of wildflowers, butterflies, and wildlife in a prairie restoration area, before it heads toward subdivisions. There is a small parking lot on Route N. For the easiest drive there, take I-435 to the Route D / NW 120th Street exit. Go north on Running Horse Road to NW 136th. Go west on NW 136th to Route N, and south on Route N a little more than a mile, to the trailhead. Dogs on leashes welcome on the trail.
Riverfront Heritage Trail (Riverfront, Section 1) in KCMO Walk right next to the Missouri River on this scenic and interesting paved trail! Park at the eastern end, in the back of the casino parking lot at 1800 East Front St. Walk about a mile and a half west along the river, to the Town of Kansas observation deck (about 3 miles out and back). There are lots of walkers, bikers, dogs, and scooters along the path, plus bridges to walk under, and conservation & historical signs to read. There is parking along the trail too. This is a really cool place to walk, see the KC skyline, and look at the Missouri River up close, right in the city.
Riverfront Heritage Trail (Westside, Section 4) in KCMO Head to the Westside of Kansas City and explore all the historic beauty of Section 4 of the Riverfront Heritage Trail. Start at Tony Aguirre Community Center, 2050 West Pennway, and walk north to see some of the oldest parks in KC: Jarboe, Andrew Dripps, and (on the other side of the incredible “hidden” pedestrian Flock Bridge over I-670) the huge bull at Mulkey Square Park. Great neighborhoods, great local history, all along this paved section of trail.
Roanoke Park Trails in KCMO If you’ve never visited Roanoke Park in Midtown, make the trip! Steep limestone bluffs, wooded ravines and springs, a brick-laid section of road, and even its own mysterious and urban-legend-like cave – Roanoke Park is a pocket of natural delights in the city. Bounded by 35th St on the north, Valentine Rd on the south, Wyoming St on the west and Southwest Blvd on the east, the park seems much bigger than the 37 or so acres it contains. The 2.5 miles of dirt trails, part of the “Rozarks” system shared with Rosedale parks, are never far from the city streets. Some of the trails are a little hard to follow, but you won’t get lost. The playgrounds and amenities at Roanoke Park are great, too!
Rock Island Trail in KC, Lee’s Summit, and Pleasant Hill, MO Rock Island is a great long trail that will eventually connect KCMO to the Katy Trail State Park across the state. Right now, you can hike 13.5 miles from the Truman Sports Complex (park in Lot L, just off the Blue Ridge Cutoff), to Jefferson Street in Lee’s Summit. Or park at the 98th St trailhead at Bannister Rd & Norfleet Ave, and walk through the old Vale railroad tunnel! Eventually the northern part of the trail will connect to the already-existing southern section of the Rock Island trail (find that trailhead at the Cass County fairgrounds, 308 W. Commercial St in Pleasant Hill). The trail is gorgeous in the 47-mile southern section too.
Schumacher Park in KCMO See the prairie as it appeared to travelers on the California, Oregon, and Santa Fe Trail, at historic, peaceful Schumacher Park, 6601 East 93rd St in KCMO. There is a short, quarter-mile paved trail, a lovely shelter, and the original marking stone placed by the DAR one hundred years ago. Multiple plaques throughout the park tell the history of the trail, notable citizens, and the communities nearby. There are a few parking spots in a pull-out alongside the park. Schumacher is a perfect spot for a picnic, and a great way to enjoy the blooming prairie at its summer best! Dogs on leashes are welcome in the park.
Shawnee Mission Park North Trails in Shawnee, KS Even on the weekends, you may not see others on the north trails at Shawnee Mission Park. Follow the park road (enter at 7900 Renner Rd) around the north side of the lake, to Ogg Rd. Turn north on Ogg, and drive for a minute or two. Park in the lot on your left. Walk west along the service road to the Red loop trailhead on the right. The Red loop is a pretty 4.5 mile walk through the woods, past a couple of ponds. You will likely see some wildlife! But you can make about an hour’s hike by taking the Gold loop, where it intersects with Red, and then returning back down the Red loop to the service road, and back to the parking lot. Dogs on leashes welcome on these trails!
Smithville Lake’s Eagle’s View Trail in Clay County, MO Winter months are a great time to see bald eagles in the KC area! The beautiful Eagle’s View trailhead is located on the north side of Collins Road, on the northwest side of the bridge across the middle of the southern end of the lake (just across from the Camp Branch beach and marina). There is a small parking lot. The trail is part gravel, part paved, about 2 miles of a loop beside the lake and through the trees. The lake is so blue and so much less crowded in the winter months! In addition to eagles, you can see hawks, gulls, owls, and other birds. Dogs on leashes are welcome on the lake trails.
South Oak Park in KCMO South Oak Park, at 83rd and Oak, may not be well-known outside its neighborhood, but it is a lovely park for hiking year-round. There is a small parking lot, a big playground, swings and a sandlot to play in, a ball field, and a little more than a half-mile paved loop for walking. The loop connects over a couple of picturesque bridges to KC’s 6+-mile Trolley Track Trail. Families, walkers, dogs, and strollers enjoy the trail at South Oak Park. The park is very clean and well-kept. Dogs on leashes are welcome in the park.
Stilwell Community Park Loop in Stilwell, KS A level, one-mile paved loop crosses Camp Branch Creek and travels through a wetland, grassland, and riparian woodland, at 6402 W. 207th St in Stilwell. The trail is perfect for strollers, small children, older adults, and anyone who appreciates an accessible walk. There is a small pond, just south of the mid-loop connecting trail. If grasses are high, the pond may be harder to see. JoCo’s first inclusive playground is wonderful, and located next to the trail. All kids will love to play here! The looped trail will ultimately serve as the southern access point to the future Camp Branch Streamway Trail. Dogs on leashes are welcome in the park.
Stocksdale Park & Walnut Woods Conservation Area Trails in Liberty, MO Scenic hike in the Northland! Enjoy 6 miles of beautiful trails at 901 S. La Frenz Road, the only park entrance. Drive to the furthest point back, along the park road. The only access to the heavily wooded, quiet conservation area is through the park trail. Enter at the trailhead just southeast of the furthest parking. In summer, these woods are dense and full of solitude. In winter, you can enjoy the same peace and quiet while admiring the bare trees, dry creekbeds, sloping hills and rocky outcroppings. The rocky SE corner of the conservation area is especially pretty. Dogs on leashes are welcome on these trails.
Swope Park’s Fox Hollow Trail in KCMO Fox Hollow trail, located behind the Lakeside Nature Trail at 4701 E. Gregory Blvd, is a magical place. The 2-mile trail wanders near limestone bluffs, along the creek, and through the forest. Park in the nature center’s lot and join the trail on either the eastern or western end. The trail splits and is blazed red or green, plus there is a small graveled section. Even if you get turned around (which is easy to do) it’s hard to get lost here. This is a great trail for families, where you can see wildlife, cross the creekbed, and maybe even catch a glimpse of a train passing on the tracks, down near the Blue River. The nature center is wonderful also, and well worth a visit.
Swope Park’s Rocky Point Glade in KCMO Rocky Point Glade covers a small area along the top of the bluffs in Swope Park. This short “hikers only” trail through the fragile glade is so special. Find the trailhead near the old stone shelter at the top of Oakwood Drive, catty-corner from Go Ape. (If you are lucky, you will find an open parking space, in front of the shelter.) Join the Rancho D’Lux trail behind the stone shelter, and follow the trail away from Oakwood Drive, for a few minutes. Enter the wooden gate on your left, read the informational signs, listen to the birds, admire the rocky formations, and see all the beautiful small plants peeking out. This trail is out-and-back, about a half mile. It can be very rocky; wear hiking shoes or boots.
Swope Park’s Swope Memorial Steps in KCMO This is a short hike with a bit of KC history! Drive just beyond Swope’s golf clubhouse at 6900 Swope Memorial Dr. Park in the small circular parking lot in back, and walk north, following a stone path down to the Thomas H. Swope memorial. See the 2 big lions standing guard, and the fountain directly in front. Almost 100 years ago, stone steps were built in the hillside, to connect this memorial with the lagoon and the rest of the park below. The lagoon was not always part of the Zoo, and people boated, fished, and swam there. To find the old Swope Memorial steps, face the fountain, turn to your left and walk south through the trees. You will come to a long, low set of stone steps. This is the old stone path down the hill, but it has been closed off midway. There are 55 stone steps still remaining to enjoy. Watch your step – stone steps are not even, especially older ones – and take a hike through some KC history!
Swope Park’s Wudchuk Run in KCMO At 1,805 acres, Swope Park is more than twice the size of Central Park in New York City (843 acres). The variety of trails in the park is unbelievable. Wudchuk Run is a challenging, rocky, 8-mile loop. Park in the spaces available at the bottom of Oakwood Drive, just off Oldham Road, for a quick hike up to some amazing scenery. Join Wudchuk Run on the north side of the road to hike up to huge limestone outcroppings. Various parts of this longer trail are treed, rocky, or steep, but they are all beautiful. Enjoy the natural wonders inside the KCMO city limits! Mountain biking is popular on this trail, along with hiking. Dogs on leashes are welcome.
Tomahawk Creek Trail in Overland Park & Leawood, KS This 10+ mile paved trail runs from Amesbury Lake Park at Pflumm & 143rd up to Leawood City Park, at Lee Blvd & Mission Road. There are many access points and beautiful spots. Two to try: Park at the Blue Valley Rec Complex (at the back of the lot near ballfields 2, 3, 4) at 9001 W. 137th St. Join the trail at the south end of the parking lot, through a gap in the fencing, and walk west for scenic beauty. Or, park at Tomahawk Creek Park at 3951 West 119th St and walk south from the parking lot to find a solitary “hidden” picnic table overlooking the creek. When you come to the wooden fencing on the west side of the path, you are there. Take the dirt path on the right, over to the picnic table, which is just barely visible from the main paved path.
Union Cemetery Paths in KCMO Take a free, self-guided walking tour in Kansas City by clicking on the link above! Beautiful Union Cemetery, the oldest public cemetery in Missouri, is maintained by the Union Cemetery Historical Society and KCMO Parks & Rec. Located just south of Crown Center at 227 East 28th Terrace, this lovely place is filled with shady paths & quiet benches. Take time to explore KC history, including burial spots of both famous and infamous Kansas Citians. Download or print out the self-guided walking tour and take a walk back in time at Union Cemetery.
Carl L. Chinnery Nature Trail at Unity Village, MO Just NE of the I-470 & 350 Hwy interchange, this trail at 1901 NW Blue Parkway is a little more than 3 miles of a peaceful gravel loop. One great side trail heads south near the start of the main trail, to a wonderful natural bridge area. There are signs to follow. You will love hiking down to explore the massive rocks! While the trail is not difficult, it is very rocky, especially in the natural bridge area. The loop itself winds through more outcroppings, under the 1945 railroad bridge, and crosses Little Cedar creek. There is a big parking lot near the Unity Village labyrinth, and the trailhead is marked. Follow it to the loop, or veer off to the south (there is a sign) to see the natural bridge.
Waterworks Park in KCMO Your legs will get a workout and your eyes will enjoy the gorgeous scenery at this historic Northland park! Turn in to Waterworks Park Drive, just north of the KCMO Water Dept treatment plant, on the west side of N Oak Trafficway at about NE 32nd Street. There is a big sign. You will find the steep hills this part of town is known for. There are incredible views of the city, lovely old stairs, many benches, and a world-class disc golf course. You can walk about 1.5 miles over the paved trail, though at times you walk along the road. Workers at the KC Water Dept built this park, on their own, in the 1930s. The park was closed during World War II, and then reopened in 1950. The disc golf course was opened in 1997. Dogs on leashes are welcome in the park.
Watkins Woolen Mill State Park trails in Lawson, MO Find almost 7 miles of trails and gravel roads to walk at 26600 Park Road North in Lawson. A paved trail, almost 4 miles long, circles Williams Creek Lake. Or, from the main park entrance, follow the park road to its very end, where it comes to a T. Make a right, and then immediately turn left, into a parking lot. You will see several picnic spots, as well as old wood stairs up to the gravel road, right before the bridge. Climb up the stairs, cross the bridge, and walk a half-mile down the gravel road to a historic 19th-century octagonal schoolhouse and church. Both buildings are locked, but you can look through the windows and imagine life in 1800s Missouri. The park also features camping, fishing, a small boat launch and swimming beach, and of course the historic Watkins Woolen Mill itself, along with a nice visitor center.
Weston Bend State Park’s West Ridge Trail in Weston, MO Located at 16600 MO-45, this small park features the West Ridge Trail, a one-way, 1.25 mile dirt trail, high on the bluffs above the Missouri River. You can easily go out and back, or connect to one of the other park trails to make a longer loop. There is parking right at the trailhead. Follow the signs on the main park road to the “scenic outlook” parking lot. The trailhead is well-marked and goes straight south along the bluffs. There are steep drop-offs on this trail (you will see places fenced in barbed wire). This is a moderately challenging hike, with lots of exposed roots and rocks. Dogs are welcome in the park; there is even a nice, fenced off-leash area for dogs!
Weston Bluffs Trail in Weston, MO At a little more than 3 miles, Weston Bluffs Trail follows the western border of Weston Bend State Park and runs parallel to the Missouri River. The trail is gravel at its southern end, and paved at the northern end. You can access the trail from its southern parking lot, north of 15330 N Bluff Road in Platte City. This is the least-busy place to park and hike. Or you can access the trail from inside the state park, climbing down from the West Ridge Trail along the White connector trail. Or, finally, you can access Weston Bluffs Trail from its northern end, at the end of Welt St in downtown Weston. The informational signs about Lewis & Clark are very interesting, and while the trail is mostly straight and mostly flat, it is a pretty walk along the river!
Wyandotte County Historic Cemeteries in WYCO, KS Explore Wyandotte County’s roots as you hike through any of three dozen historic cemeteries! Click the link above from the Wyandotte County Historical Museum in Bonner Springs to learn more about the “buried history” of the county. Many famous and not-so-famous residents left their marks in these places. Climb up the Missouri River bluffs at Memorial Park Cemetery, or check out any of the other great walks through WYCO history.
Wyandotte County Lake Park Trails in WYCO, KS More like a state park than a local one, this park won’t disappoint; just driving the park road is beautiful. Located just east of I-435, exit at Leavenworth Rd/KS 5, or at N 93rd or Donahoo Road. There are 10 miles of trails, accessed at multiple trailheads around the 400-acre lake, plus a marina, and even a branch of the library. For a quick but breathtaking fall hike, park at Shelter 6 and enter the trail through the chained-off service road behind the shelter. Follow the trail through woods, near the lake, across bridges, a little more than a mile to the Schlagle Library, and back. For longer hikes, you can pick up the lake loop / bridle trail at most shelters. Trails are not well-marked, but they are great hikes and figuring them out is a lot of fun.
Take A Hike, KC 
