Step into nature at Lenexa’s Black Hoof Park
Black Hoof Park is one of the most scenic in the Kansas City area. Although it’s in the midst of the suburbs and near K-7, it retains a secluded feel. Lake Lenexa, encircled by forest, is clear and a frequent stop for waterfowl. Trails brings you through wooded areas, hug the lake and bridge the dam (an architecturally interesting site in and of itself).
Black Hoof Park and Lake Lenexa trails
Circle a 35-acre lake and get close to nature on three miles of trails.
Trail Black Hoof Park and Lake Lenexa Trail
Overview
With its wooded, rolling hills and central lake, Black Hoof Park is one of Greater Kansas City’s most scenic hiking destinations. Although it’s in the midst of the suburbs and near K-7, this 231-acre recreational area retains a secluded feel. Lake Lenexa, encircled by forest, is clear and a frequent stop for waterfowl. The trail brings you through wooded areas, hugs the lake and bridges the dam (an architecturally interesting site in and of itself).Length There are about 3 miles of trails in total. The main trail circling the lake is 2 miles long.
Address and location 9053 Monticello Rd, Lenexa, Kan., 66220. There is also a trail head at 23351 Prairie Star Pkwy, Lenexa, Kan., 66227, which leads into the park.
Conditions
The 2-mile trail encircling the lake is split in two. The northern half, which is accessible from parking lots, is paved and has only minimal elevation changes. The southern half, which begins after crossing the dam, is a dirt trail with moderate elevation changes.
Kid friendly? The paved trail, though busy and near the water’s edge, is safe for children who are being supervised by a caregiver. The park also has a play area and other amenities for kids.
How busy? The paved, north side of the trail can be quite busy, especially when weather is ideal.
Pets Yes, on a leash (unless otherwise designated).
Bikes Non-motorized bicycles are permitted.
Restrooms are located near the parking area.
Camp Branch Glade: A small park big on nature
Camp Branch Glade is a unique southeast Johnson County park that has preserved some of the area’s native wildness. Its 58 acres include a glade, prickly pear cactus, a sinkhole, large limestone boulders and a rocky, clear tributary to Camp Branch Creek and the Blue River.
Camp Branch Glade Park and trail, Stillwell, Kansas
This forested park has preserved some of Johnson County’s natural features.
Trail Camp Branch Glade trail
Overview
Camp Branch Glade preserves a pocket of Johnson County’s native wildness. Its 58 acres include natural features rare to the county. These include a limestone glade, prickly pear cactus, a sinkhole, limestone boulders and a rocky, clear tributary to Camp Branch Creek and the Blue River. It’s a small park that’s big on natural wonders.
Length 1.5 miles total in three loops
Address and location 5151 W. 175th St., Stilwell, Kan., 66085
Conditions This is a rustic, dirt trail but it is well marked and has only moderate elevation changes.
Kid friendly? This trail is not suitable for strollers, but supervised children should do fine. There is a portable restroom.
How busy? Low to moderate traffic.
Pets Yes, on a leash (unless otherwise designated). Read Johnson County Park rules here.
Bikes Non-motorized bicycles are permitted.
Restrooms are available near the parking area.
Share a Heritage of outdoor recreation in Olathe
Olathe’s 1,200-care Heritage Park includes Heritage Lake and serves as a trailhead for the 3.4-mile Coffee Creek Trail. The lake, which is often frequented by kayakers, is a prime location to observe waterfowl. It’s also home to a golf course and many recreational areas.
Waterfowl are abundant at Heritage Lake at Olathe’s Heritage Park.
Circle Heritage Lake and experience wildlife in southern Johnson County.
Trail Heritage Park trails
Overview Olathe’s 1,200-care Heritage Park includes Heritage Lake and serves as a trailhead for the 3.4-mile Coffee Creek Trail. The lake, which is often frequented by kayakers, is a prime location to observe waterfowl. It’s also home to a golf course and sports fields.
Length The loop around the Heritage Lake area is about one mile. However, it connects with the 3.4-mile Coffee Creek Streamway Trail for a much longer journey.
Address and location You can access the Heritage Lake loop from the main parking lot or anywhere near the lake.
Heritage Park, 16050 Pflumm Road, Olathe, Kan., 66062
Conditions This is a paved, easy walk with minimal elevation changes. Significant portions of the trail are unshaded, so be mindful of heat and sun.
Kid friendly? This trail is paved and well maintained so it’s suitable for strollers and children on bicycles. The trail around Heritage Lake is busy, so caregivers will need to be attentive to children’s safety. In addition, walking near the lake requires parents to be mindful of small children and water safety. The park includes a playground.
How busy? This is a popular and often busy trail.
Pets Yes, on a leash (unless otherwise designated). Read Johnson County park rules here.
Bikes Non-motorized bicycles are permitted.
Restrooms There are permanent and portable restrooms in the park.
