Hike river bluffs, forest and shoreline at Kaw River State Park
Kaw River State Park and adjacent MacLennan Park encompass about 400 acres and 11 miles of trails in river bluff and lowlands environments. The sandy riverfront itself is also ripe for exploration with its wide, sprawling channel and numerous sandbars. It’s a unique hiking experience in Topeka, Kansas.
Kaw River State Park and trail system, Topeka, Kansas.
Kaw River State Park (and adjacent MacLennan Park) make Topeka a Midwest hiking destination.
Trail Kaw River State Park and MacLennan Park, Topeka, Kansas
Overview
Perhaps Kansas’ best-known and beloved geographic feature is the Flint Hills. But before you get there, there’s a gem in Topeka worth a day trip: Kaw River State Park. This park, which connects to the local MacLennan Park, provides a classic Midwest river bluff and lowlands environment. You can hike 200 vertical feet above the river into upland timber, with switchbacks guiding you through the elevation. But you can also descend to the shore and the river itself. Depending on the water levels, you may be met with a sprawling, sandy beach where you can watch the lazy Kaw flow by. If water levels are high, you won’t be able to get quite as close but can enjoy the waterfront experience. Be on the lookout for waterfowl and other wildlife. Kaw River State Park includes a boat ramp for motorized vessels as well as kayaks and canoes. The state park contains 76 acres, but when it’s added to MacLennan Park, there are more than 300 acres to explore.
Length There are 11 miles of gravel and dirt trails.
Address and location Kaw River State Park, 300 Southwest Wanamaker Road, Topeka, Kan., 66606
Conditions Trails are dirt or gravel based and are of moderate difficulty with some steep elevation changes.
Kid friendly? The trails are not stroller friendly, so children will need to walk or be carried. There are few hazards, however. Children playing near the river will need to observe water safety.
How busy? This location moderately trafficked.
Pets Yes, on a leash (unless otherwise designated).
Bikes Unless otherwise posted, trails are open to mountain bikes.
Other Topeka-area hiking destinations
Reach for the sky at The Pinnacles
Pinnacles Youth Park, near Columbia, Mo., showcases a rare instance of rock outcroppings in Northern Missouri. A trail takes visitors to the top of the spires and around the park. This small area can also be explored off-trail.
Pinnacles Youth Park centers around a ridge that looks like giant shark teeth jutting upward.
Trail Pinnacles Youth Park, near Columbia, Mo.
Overview
North of Columbia, Mo., lies a remarkable “toothy” ridge carved from limestone known as The Pinnacles. This private park, open to the public, draws visitors year round. They come to see, and climb on, the limestone spires between Silver Fork and Kelley Branch streams. While Missouri’s Ozarks are laden with rock formations, it’s rare for Northern Missouri. This 77-acre park can be explored from rock wall to rock wall. In addition to the towering rocks are crystal clear streams, woods and a mammoth rock overhang.
Length Although the official trail is only one mile long, hikers and nature lovers can spend hours here.
Address and location 850 E. Pinnacles Road, Sturgeon, Mo., 65284
Conditions Dirt and rock pathways are clearly marked and the park is relatively small. Walkers proceeding to explore The Pinnacles spires will encounter steep elevation gains and cliffs.
Kid friendly? The Pinnacles has plenty of areas that children can enjoy. The rock spires, however, are 80-feet tall and have no guard rails. Falling is a real danger for children and anyone who is not careful. Water safety is also an issue when the creeks are full and running swiftly.
How busy? This location is heavily trafficked. To avoid crowds, go in the off-season, early in the morning or on a weekday. Since this spot is near the University of Missouri-Columbia, it’s frequented by students.
Pets Yes, on a leash (unless otherwise designated).
Bikes Prohibited. See park rules here.
Official Website also see the Missouri Department of Conservation page
Other hiking opportunities near Columbia, Mo.
