Serenity rules at Marais des Cygnes refuge
Marais des Cygnes National Wildlife Refuge
A state and federal wildlife refuge provide 15,000 acres to hike, canoe, fish and photograph.
Trail Marais des Cygnes National Wildlife Refuge and Marais des Cygnes (Kansas) Wildlife Area.
Overview
Marais des Cygnes (rhymes with “hooray machine!”) is the name of two adjacent wildlife refuges in eastern Kansas, about one hour from Downtown Kansas City. Both are open to the public and together comprise about 15,000 acres of wetlands, forest and hilly terrain. The centerpiece of the area is the Marais des Cygnes River. The name comes from both French and Osage names for the river, which translate to “where white swans are plentiful.” And the name says it all. The region is a major stopping point for migrating birds, including bald eagles and pelicans. Another resident of interest is the elusive flying squirrel.
The best word to describe the area rhymes with des Cygnes: serene. Bottomland hardwood forests cover much of the acreage, with the wide river cutting channels and leaving oxbow lakes behind it. The river is open to non-motorized boating. The state wildlife refuge is home to 200-foot hills that overlook the river near the village of Trading Post. In addition, reservoirs have been created to provide additional habitat.
Drive Time The area is about one hour from Downtown Kansas City.
Length There are about 6 miles of trails in the national wildlife refuge. The state refuge has no trails, but access is available through gravel service roads. Visitors are welcome to go off trail and explore, but be mindful of hunting seasons. See our trail map below for tips on where to hike.
Address and location Marais Des Cygnes National Wildlife Refuge, 16382 US-69, Pleasanton, KS 66075
Conditions Trails are well marked and generally consist of dirt roads and mowed pathways. See our map below for tips on the best areas to explore.
Kid friendly? This area would be a bumpy ride for strollers, so kids will need to be able to carry their own weight.
How busy? This is a remote area, but is popular with sportsmen, so time your visit to avoid major hunting season activity.
Pets Yes, on a leash.
Bikes No
Official websites
