A Guide to Hiking in Kansas City

Some of the top hiking trails in Kansas City include the Blue River Greenway, Wudchuk Run, and White Tail Trail.
Written by Claire Beaney
Reviewed by Kathleen Flear
From a peaceful stroll alongside the Blue River to a rugged, shaded trek through the forest, here are the best hikes in
Kansas City
.
While Kansas City might not be the first destination that comes to mind when you think of hiking, this
Missouri
hotspot is a hidden gem for outdoor treks. Trails in and around the city offer simple pleasures and peaceful beauty that might initially come as a surprise but will only get better every time you visit.
Jerry
, the
super app
that helps you save on
car insurance
, is here to set you on the right path. We've compiled a list of the top hikes in Kansas City—let’s get started!
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The best hikes in Kansas City 

Hiking trails in and around Kansas City are some of the most beautiful in the state. There are quite a few trails located in and around the city that are worth seeing—it was hard to narrow down the list, but we’ve got the best of the best for you right here:

Best for views: Blue River Greenway

Distance: 5.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Trail type: Out and back 
Elevation gain: N/A
Parking: Street parking
Dogs: Yes, leashed
Starting point: 7501 Blue River Rd, Kansas City, MO 64132
The
Blue River Greenway
lets you explore nature along with one of Kansas City's most famous rivers. This paved trail runs from Minor Park to 95th Street, all within city limits.
Bicyclists and walkers alike are welcome to use it, and at the trail's northern end, it connects with the paved Indian Creek Trail. 
You can explore colorful alpine meadows, craggy rock faces, and glistening mountain lakes. Immerse yourself in the calming smells of spruce and cedar and take in the jagged mountaintops that stretch everywhere around you, all coming together to make the perfect peaceful stroll.
Pro Tip You can also check out the Blue River Bike trail, which runs about parallel to the paved trail. It offers a more rugged and rustic hiking experience and is open to walkers as well!

Best for dogs: Swope Park Trails - Wudchuk Run Trail Head

Distance: 2.2 miles
Difficulty: Moderately challenging
Trail type: Loop
Elevation gain: 173 feet
Parking: Yes
Dogs: Yes, off-leash
Starting point: 6304 Oakwood Rd #6000, Kansas City, MO 64132
Wudchuk Run
is a fantastic path in Swope Park's mountain bike trail system for you and your four-legged friend—it has everything! The trail is gently rolling, with a mix of smooth and rocky areas. 
There are also a couple of shallow creeks to cross, so you and your pup can dip your toes (or paws) in for a quick refresh along the way.

Best for Instagram: Line Creek and Southern Platte Pass Trailhead

Distance: 8.2 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Trail type: Point to point
Elevation gain: 416 feet
Parking: Street parking
Dogs: Yes, leashed
Starting point: Line Creek Trail, Kansas City, MO 64151
Located only 15 minutes from downtown Kansas City,
Line Creek and Southern Platte Pass
has everything a trail lover could want. 
This beautifully paved 8-mile trail winds peacefully through Platte County and offers something for everyone. There are several sites along Line Creek, including a small, lovely waterfall along the creek bank near the start of your journey.
Insta-worthy photos can be snapped even after you finish the hike, thanks to the trail's ease of access and gorgeous scenery.

Best for families: Jerry Smith Park - Trail Head

Distance: 1.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Trail type: Loop
Elevation gain: 104 feet
Parking: Yes
Dogs: Yes
Starting point: 13700 Prospect Ave, Kansas City, MO 64146
The 360-acre
Jerry Smith Park
is home to a
winding trail
that will fill your senses with colorful wildflowers and prairie plants of all kinds. It’s a pretty easy hike and one that you and the entire family can enjoy.
This relatively flat stroll will lead you to a hilltop that offers perfect views of Overland Park’s skyline. Be sure to pack a picnic lunch and take a break at the top—and bring your furry family member along if you have one!

Best for a challenge: Shawnee Mission Park Orange, Violet, and Red Loop

Distance: 6.5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate to hard
Trail type: Loop
Elevation gain: 498 feet
Parking: Yes
Dogs: Yes
Starting point: Shawnee Mission Park, Shawnee, KS 66218
If you're searching for a longer trail through the woods with more difficult terrain,
Shawnee Mission Park’s Orange, Violet, and Red Loops
are a great alternative, not far from the city.
While not the most scenic hike, these shady, forested routes are a fun, adventurous challenge, with a bit more elevation and terrain variety than the easier hikes on our list. Some of the higher elevations offer modest views of the forest treetops, which are particularly lovely in the fall.
Out of the three loops, the rocky Violet is probably the most advanced, so head there if you want a real challenge!
Pro Tip This trail is used by mountain bikers, so keep an eye and ear out for them if you plan to hike the entire loop—especially around any blind bends.

Best for waterfall lovers: White Tail Trail

Distance: 2.6 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Trail type: Loop
Elevation gain: 249 feet
Parking: Yes
Dogs: No
Starting point: 55-199 E 13th St, Parkville, MO 64152
The
White Tail Trail
in nearby Parkville Nature Sanctuary is the pinnacle of urban trails. The sanctuary contains multiple routes, so you can extend the 2.6-mile White Tail Trail by taking several detours and loops within the park.
Wooded trails wind by waterfalls and streams that are stunning throughout the year. It is a wonderful way to spend the day away from the hustle and bustle of Kansas City.

Tips for hiking in Kansas City

Before you head out on a trek in Kansas City, make sure you familiarize yourself with these important safety and etiquette guidelines:
  • Prep before you go. Make sure to pack bug repellent, sunscreen, water, and some snacks for your journey.
  • Examine the trail map. While most of these routes have clear path markers, being familiar with the route is a great way to prevent yourself from getting lost.
  • Watch out for wildlife. Coyotes, bears, wild boars, and snakes are just a few of the more risky wildlife you may encounter on your hike. Stay aware and keep your eyes peeled for any wild animals.
  • Leave no trace. Be sure to
    enjoy the outdoors without disturbing it
    —leaving trash, trampling plants, and bothering wildlife should always be avoided.
  • Head out early. Some of these hikes can get pretty busy, especially on the weekends, so hitting the trail early in the morning can help you dodge the crowds!

How to save money on car insurance in Kansas City

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FAQs

Some trails in Kansas City may be closed at certain points due to wet, muddy conditions. You can check
Urban Trail Co.
for active alerts on any closed hikes.
Yes! While Kansas City may not have massive mountain peaks or sandy beaches, it has a lot to offer in terms of picturesque nature treks. There are countless hiking trails in and around the city that folks can explore to get some exercise and fresh air.
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