Paved and Natural Surface Trails Follow the Blue River in Kansas City
Discover nature alongside one of Kansas City’s most prominent rivers.
Trail Blue River Trail System
Overview
The Blue River Trail system is a sprawling north-south network of more than 30 miles of paved and natural surface trails. It's actually two different trail systems, but they parallel one another and intertwine.
Blue River Greenway Trail
This wide, paved trail runs 6 miles, beginning at 119th St. and Blue River Parkway in South Kansas City. It continues north through Minor Park to 95th Street near the Bannister Road Federal Complex. It’s available to bikers and walkers and intersects with the paved Indian Creek Trail at its northern end. Scenery along the trail includes open areas, lowland forest, ponds and the Blue River itself.
Did you know?
The original Red Bridge, at Minor Park, is also called the Locks of Love Bridge and is adorned with thousands of padlocks. It is accessible at the Minor Park trail head.
Conditions This paved trail is well maintained with minor elevation changes.
Kid friendly? The paved trail presents excellent opportunities for strollers and children on bikes. Parents will need to be mindful of passing bikers.
How busy? The paved trail is popular and busy, particularly near Minor Park, home of picnics and sports activity.
Pets Yes, on a leash (unless otherwise designated).
Bikes Non-motorized bicycles are permitted.
Restrooms Portable restrooms are available at Minor Park.
Access
99th Street Trailhead, 9895-9847 Shepherds Drive, Kansas City, Mo., 64131
Blue River Parkway Trailhead, E. 104th St. (under I-470 bridge)
Blue River Park and Athletic Fields, 1324 E 104 St, Kansas City, Mo., 64131
Alex George Wetland Park, 10633, 10831 Blue River Rd, Kansas City, Mo., 64131
Minor Park, 11103 Holmes Rd, Kansas City, Mo., 64131
Southern Trailhead, 11900-12056 Blue River Road, Kansas City, Mo., 64146
Blue River Parkway Single-Track Trail
Running approximately parallel to the paved trail is an intricate system of single-path natural surface trails that are 26 miles in length. These trails run on the east and west sides of the Blue River. The system is maintained by the Urban Trail Company and is rustic and rugged. This trail can close during wet weather, so visit the Urban Trail website to check the status.
Conditions The trail is well marked but is challenging in terms of elevation changes and footing. In warmer months, trails can narrow due to overgrowth. In summer, low-lying areas can prove humid and attract mosquitos and gnats.
Kid friendly? The dirt track trail is narrow and not built for strollers. Parents will need to be mindful of passing bike traffic.
How busy? The dirt track trail is popular with mountain bikers and traffic levels depend on the section and season.
Pets Yes, on a leash (unless otherwise designated).
Bikes Non-motorized bicycles are permitted.
Restrooms Portable restrooms are available at Minor Park.
Did you know?
The southernmost access for the natural surface bike trail is on E. 139th St., between Holmes and Prospect, in South Kansas City. This is a quiet walk that parallels the river before looping back to the trailhead. Plan on street parking.
