Howdy, fellow adventurers! I’ve explored the best hiking trails and trials around Kansas City, and here are my top picks for y’all:
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Burr Oak Woods Conservation Area
A nature-lover’s dream, the Burr Oak Woods Conservation Area boasts over 1,000 acres of diverse terrain, including forests, meadows, and streams. The three-mile trail is beautifully maintained and perfect for a leisurely hike.
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Weston Bend State Park
Nestled in the rolling hills of the Missouri River Valley, Weston Bend State Park offers stunning views of the surrounding bluffs and river. The 3.75-mile paved trail winds through the park, with plenty of spots to stop for picnics or wildlife-watching.
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Perry Lake Trail
Located just an hour’s drive from Kansas City, the Perry Lake Trail boasts over 29 miles of picturesque terrain. The rolling hills and dense woods are a hiker’s paradise, with plenty of opportunities for camping and fishing as well.
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Swope Park Trails
Within the heart of Kansas City, Swope Park offers a network of trails perfect for both novice and experienced hikers alike. The 6.1-mile Lakeside Trail offers scenic views of the lake, while the Equestrian Trail winds through the park’s rolling hills.
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Shawnee Mission Park Trails
With over 1,600 acres of land and a beautiful lake, Shawnee Mission Park is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts. The park offers several trails ranging from easy to advanced, including the 6.3-mile Black Hoof Park Trail that winds through picturesque meadows and forests.
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Rock Island Rail Trail
For a more urban hiking experience, the Rock Island Rail Trail is a former railway that’s been transformed into a 17-mile trail stretching all the way to Windsor, Missouri. The trail passes through charming small towns and cornfields, offering a unique glimpse into the area’s agricultural history.
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Clinton Lake North Shore Trails
The North Shore Trails at Clinton Lake offer over 25 miles of scenic hiking trails, ranging from leisurely strolls to strenuous climbs. The trails wind through meadows, forests, and along the shoreline, offering stunning views of the lake and surrounding wilderness.
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Browns Creek State Trail
Located just a short 45-minute drive from Kansas City, the Browns Creek State Trail is a nature-lover’s paradise. The trail winds through dense forests and rolling hills, with several small streams and waterfalls along the way.
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Knob Noster State Park
Located about an hour’s drive from Kansas City, Knob Noster State Park boasts picturesque hiking trails and plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. The 9.75-mile trail system offers challenging climbs and descents, with rewarding views of the area’s rolling hills and forests.
Don’t forget to bring your camera for some Instagram-worthy pics!
Don’t forget to look up at the soaring bald eagles!
Make sure to bring plenty of bug spray during the summer months!
Be sure to keep an eye out for the bison herd that lives within the park!
Be sure to bring your furry friends along for the ride in the off-leash dog area!
Be sure to stop and sample the local BBQ at one of the trailside eateries!
Don’t forget to cool off with a refreshing swim at the lake’s beach!
Be sure to pack a picnic and enjoy the beautiful views!
Don’t forget to bring your binoculars for some bird-watching!