Three top Kansas City hikes for Memorial Day weekend
Make the most of our late spring weather by exploring nature in your hometown.
Sometimes the hardest part is getting started. You want to enjoy the outdoors on a long weekend in Kansas City. But where? We’re glad you asked. Here are three hikes that will help you maximum your time outdoors. Get beyond barbecue, get some steps and carpe diem!
Watkins Mill State Park
Excelsior Springs, Missouri
Watkins Mill is both a state park and National Historic Landmark. You can get plenty of steps in exploring the historic 1870s agricultural manor, complete with farm animals, a cultivated garden and multi-story textile factory. Beyond that, there’s a 3.8-mile loop around Watkins Mill Lake that cuts through deep forest, passes a waterfall and provides panoramic views of the reservoir.
Antioch Park
Merriam, Kansas
Antioch Park is one of Johnson County’s most visited attractions. With its fountains, looping trails and boardwalks, it can best be described as walking through a suburban garden. Shade trees, picnic areas, lakes and bridges create their own brand of Zen. There is a 1.2-mile paved loop that weaves in and out of all these amenities. In addition, there is a large and unique play area for kids. The upside: It’s beautiful. The downside, if there is one: It’s busy.
Pleasant Hill’s MOPAC Trail: A countryside walk and a historic downtown
Pleasant Hill, Mo.
Ready for a walk in the countryside that begins in a picturesque small town? The MOPAC Trail starts in historic Downtown Pleasant Hill at a grain elevator. It meanders through woods and prairie, with a few overpasses crossing Wilson Creek and Big Creek. It's 2.3 miles out and back. You can grab coffee and breakfast at Press Monkey Studio. Other offerings include Big Creek Café and Wing Hill Wine Company. There’s also a farmer’s market downtown from most of May-September.