Summer has faded, and it’s time to grab a jacket (still slap on the sunscreen) and don the tennis shoes or hiking boots and discover your outdoor Kansas City! The area features so many natural wonders, all enhanced by the fact that each is a short trek, as varied as the people of our city.
Whether you enjoy water, flowers, rocks, mountains or bird watching, you won’t have to look hard to discover your passion. In fact, seven of the greatest hiking trails on earth are located in the Kansas City area.
#1: Powell Gardens
Powell Gardens, 1609 NW U.S. Hwy. 50, Kingsville, MO, 816.697.2600
One of the loveliest spots at Powell Gardens, the Rock and Waterfall Garden, is a photographer's dream! With a vibrant display of blooming flowers and the pleasant melody of rolling water, this is one of the most peaceful places at the garden. Also, stroll through the entire property to learn about plants inherent to our climate and enjoy a respite and fresh food in Café Thyme or Missouri Barn.
#2: White Tail Trail - Parkville Nature Sanctuary
Parkville Nature Sanctuary is located below the Platte County Health Dept., 12th & Highway 9.
This stunning 3-mile loop trail features a waterfall and is the perfect nature getaway in this "urban forest." However, the waterfall means it's a little more popular than other trails around Kansas City, so don't expect to have a day to yourself here.
#3. Fox Hollow Trail - Swope Park
Located behind Lakeside Nature Center, 4701 E. Gregory Blvd., Kansas City, MO
Swope Park is the most convenient area for many Kansas Citians to get outdoors. Of course, being in the city doesn't make the natural area any less beautiful. This tiny 0.3-mile trail loop is an ideal place to enjoy nature.
#4. Cave Spring Historic Site & Nature Center
8701 E. Gregory Blvd., Kansas City, MOThese dirt hiking trails feature three loops of different lengths. Along the trail you will see remains of old cabins, creeks, ponds and a small cave with a spring in it. Old stone fireplaces still stand, though the houses that once surrounded them have crumbled away. Once owned by President Harry Truman’s maternal grandfather, the park (also known as William M. Klein Park) is now owned by Jackson County and operated by a 250-member Cave Spring Association. Today, visitors can enjoy nature center exhibits, 4 miles of walking trails, a water garden, campground and educational programs.
# 5. Maple Woods Natural Area Trail - Maple Woods Nature Preserve
2603-2617 NE 76th St., Gladstone, MO
Maple Woods is an apt name for this trail, and the scenery here is amazing. The moss-lined paths and forest area make this 1-mile loop a perfect little stroll.
# 6. Mountain Bike Trail - Swope Park
Off of Oakwood Drive in Swope Park, Kansas City, MO
For those who like to explore on wheels rather than on foot, this mountain bike trail in Swope Park is the best around. It's under 5 miles, so it won't take long, but the beautiful path and scenery sure slow you down a bit. It's another great place to get away from the concrete when you need to relax.
Lee's Summit Go
# 7. Larry Mattenon Memorial Trail - South Prairie Lee Park
Begin your hike at Old Missouri Town parking lot, go south to Cowherd Road, east to 7 Highway, north to Wyatt Road, east to Litchford Road, south and then east to Buckner-Tarsney Road, south to Blue and Grey Park Scout area, south following trail at campgrounds to S. Brown Road, go south to old US 50, east to Lone Jack-Lee’s Summit Road, south and then east to Burnym Road, and south to the Civil War museum.
This little loop is under 2 miles and features a cute little bridge over the creek. It's great for wildlife spotting and for a quick getaway when you need a natural escape.
Sources: OnlyInYourState.com, AllTrails.com.
Judy Goppert enjoys the beauty of the Kansas City area.