Hike Gary L. Haller National Recreation Trail

Lace up your boots and head to the 1,600 acre Shawnee Mission Park, located about 25 minutes southwest of downtown Kansas City. One of the best parks in the Kansas City metro boats miles of hiking/mountain biking trails, a 120 acre lake, a marina that rents outs kayaks, paddle boards, canoes, and pedal boats, a 53 acre off-leash dog area, a disc golf course, shelters, and numerous picnic areas....

Located behind Kaw Point industrial Park is Kaw Point park. This park is located right where the Kansas and Missouri Rivers meet. It has historical significance too, the Lewis and Clark expedition actually camped at this spot for a couple of nights to rest, repair their boats, and to explore around the area.  There are a couple paved trails in the very small park. To get to the best lookout, he...

Located just outside of Kansas City, MO, the Parkville Nature sanctuary is a great little place for hiking, photography, or just an escape from the city. The Nature Sanctuary is located directly behind the Platte County Health Department (1201 East St, Parkville, MO 64152). There is a parking lot located directly behind the Health Department building; park in the lot and you will spot the trail...

Head out to Line Creek Trail in Kansas City, MO where you'll find a photogenic waterfall. The trail stretches 8.25 miles currently with plans for extension. The closest trailhead to the waterfall is located near the Line Creek Community Center and Ice Arena (5940 NW Waukomis Dr, Kansas City, MO 64151).  From this trailhead, head south on the trail for approximately 0.5 miles; you will notice th...

Easy, paved, approximately one mile trail with three mulched side trails. Great for kids and dogs. Near the end of the trail there's a small creek that's great for cooling down and playing. The side trails have wildflowers and birds. The last one features a wooden tent with a bench that's great for kids to play in. A great trip to easily explore with kids and pets.

Take a leisurely stroll around Margaret's Pond while exploring the herb garden, amphitheater and promenade. There are beautiful flowers and trees to encounter here.  Or if you are feeling a bit more adventurous, hop on the asphalt Sculpture Garden Trail (0.4 mile) which links to the Cottonwood Trail (0.4 mile). This mulched path winds through a wooded area along Wolf Creek. From here, veer off ...