Weston Bend State Park & Weston Bluffs Trail
Weston Bend State Park and Weston Bluffs Trail, Weston, Mo., Platte County
Epic trails follow the voyage of Lewis and Clark and scale towering Missouri River bluffs.
Trail Weston Bend State Park trails and Weston Bluffs Trail
Overview
Weston Bend State Park and the adjacent bluffs trail are among the most scenic in the Kansas City area. The 1,100-acre park is centered on the 250-foot bluffs that tower over the Missouri River. Guests can explore the ridges, valleys and rocky terrain to their hearts’ content. The park also contains lowland trails that explore the bottomland forest along the shore of the Missouri River. The Weston Bluffs Trail begins east of the park, passes through it and ends in downtown Weston, Mo. It’s a 3.25-mile gravel trail that follows close to the shore of the river but is high enough to offer scenic views. You can make a full day experience by walking the Weston Bluffs Trail, exploring the park, shopping and eating in downtown Weston, then walking back. Trail guides provide insights into the travels of Lewis and Clark, who traversed the area on their famous voyage of exploration.Extras The town of Weston was established in 1837 and is home to many historic houses and buildings. The downtown area hosts eclectic shops and restaurants.
Length The Weston Bluffs Trail is 3.25 miles one way; Weston Bend State Park includes 10.5 miles of trails.
Address and location
The Weston Bluffs Trail parking is at the intersection of Highway 45 and Beverly Drive in Weston/Platte County, Mo.
Weston Bend State Park is located at 16600 MO-45, Weston, Mo., 64098
Conditions The Weston Bluffs Trail is gravel and experiences only moderate elevation changes. Weston Bend State Park has a variety of trail surfaces, from paved to dirt. Difficulty levels range from high to easy. Study the map and take your pick.
Kid friendly? Parents can push a stroller along the Weston Bluffs Trail and the paved trail in the state park. Some park trails follow ridges and include sheer drops, so parental oversight needs to be exercised.
How busy? This trail can be heavily trafficked during peak days, hours and seasons.
Pets Yes, on a leash (unless otherwise designated).
Bikes Non-motorized bicycles are permitted on the Weston Bluffs Trail and the designated bicycle trail in the state park.
